HK1193578A - Easy-to-clean spray gun, attachments for the same, and mounting and demounting methods - Google Patents

Description

Easily cleaned spray gun, accessory for spray gun and mounting and dismounting method

The invention relates to an easily cleaned spray gun, an accessory for a spray gun, and a method of mounting and dismounting.

A conventional spray gun basically comprises: a base body (featuring a handle and a head and containing a compressed air conduit); a nozzle group; a compressed air connector; a trigger; an air directing system having an air valve, an air nozzle, and a mechanism for adjusting the volume and pressure of air flowing through the compressed air conduit; and a material guide system having a paint needle and a mechanism for adjusting the volume of material. The lance head features a material conveying region through which the material to be ejected flows from the ejection medium inlet to the ejection medium outlet, which is typically realized in the form of a material nozzle. For example, a material supply in the form of a reservoir or a supply line from an external material storage system is provided at the injection medium inlet. For example, conventional reservoirs include gravity feed cups, suction feed cups, or laterally mounted cups. The pressure differential may be created by the material delivery device or by air flowing through an opening in the material supply device. All free-flowing materials (e.g., paints, varnishes, adhesives, etc.) can be considered a jetting medium.

At an air connector arranged on or in the pistol grip handle, the compressed air required for the injection process is supplied. The air valve is opened by pushing the trigger upward to a first pressure point. When the trigger is additionally pulled back, the paint needle is withdrawn from the nozzle. The spray medium then flows out of the material nozzles respectively as a result of gravity or pressure differences and is atomized by the compressed air leaving the air nozzles.

For many years, this type of lance has proven itself for practical applications. However, a disadvantage is that the material conveying area needs to be carefully cleaned, both after each use and before each material change, because otherwise clogging of the area and contamination of the blasting medium can occur. In the prior art, this problem is solved by using a material guide in the form of a cartridge (i.e. in the form of a replaceable insert or a replaceable ejection medium guide unit, which is preferably composed of disposable items). For example, DE3016419C2 discloses an advantageous spray gun of this type with a holding region and with a head fitted with a cartridge, wherein the cartridge features an inlet region for a material conveying conduit ending in an outlet region, wherein the inlet region of the cartridge is connected or connectable with a reservoir for the material to be sprayed, and wherein the cartridge preferably guides at least one material conveying part of the spray gun. This spray gun has a head divided into two parts and is characterized by a rear region with respect to the direction of injection and a front region with respect to the direction of injection. The rear end of the front region of the two-part head is fitted with a plug-type device for the cartridge, with a tubular material-conveying pipe extending in the direction of the jet and in the interior of which a nozzle needle or paint needle is arranged, respectively. The nozzle needle can be moved back and forth in the direction of the jet by means of a lever and spring mechanism, so that the material to be sprayed can pass through the nozzle arranged in the outlet region. The cartridge is held in the head by a bayonet connection. After its use, the pin connection can be disconnected and the two head regions can be pivoted away from each other so that the cartridge containing the paint needle can be removed from the head and then discarded. The new cartridge can then be fixed to or in the spray gun accordingly. In this way, there is no need to clean the material delivery area of the spray gun. However, the pin connection is relatively complicated and difficult to manufacture and separate, and moreover, a defect-free operational reliability is not always ensured.

Another spray gun with a replaceable cartridge is described in DE102004027789a 1. The object of this disclosure is a two-part spray gun wherein each of the two parts features a recess for receiving a replaceable paint media guide unit. A replaceable paint media guide unit is inserted into the receiver of the first gun portion. Then, the second gun portion is attached to the first portion and secured with screws. Due to these numerous preparatory steps, the setting up of the spray gun is very delicate and time consuming. Furthermore, the two-part design of the gun requires a very large additional effort during manufacture, since the two gun parts are not identical, thus requiring two production lines. This increases the manufacturing costs of the spray gun. In addition, it is also difficult to seal the gun cavity from the outside air.

Another embodiment of a spray gun with a replaceable cartridge is disclosed in WO2009/015260a 2. In this case, the gun is also basically composed of two parts (i.e., a front part and a rear part connected to each other by a hinge). To insert the cartridge, the front portion is pivoted downward, exposing the cartridge receiver. After insertion of the cartridge, the front part is pivoted upwards again and connected to the rear part by a spring-loaded latch. Although this allows the insertion of the cartridge into the gun to be performed more quickly than in the prior art described above, the quality of the hinge, in particular its accuracy and its stability, is subject to very strict requirements. Therefore, the manufacturing difficulty is very large compared to the conventional spray gun, and the manufacturing involves a lot of additional cost.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to develop a spray gun of the type mentioned at the outset which can be produced more cost-effectively and always functions reliably, wherein in particular a cartridge or another type of exchangeable insert can be mounted on or in the spray gun and removed or detached from the spray gun again in a less complicated but still reliable manner.

Another object of the invention is to make a replaceable blasting media guide unit suitable for use with the inventive integrated lance.

It is a further object of the present invention to develop a material supply device suitable for use with the inventive integral spray gun and the inventive replaceable spray medium guide unit.

A fourth object of the invention is to make a cover suitable for use with the inventive integrated spray gun and the inventive replaceable spray media guide unit.

Another object of the invention is to achieve a method by means of which an exchangeable spray medium guide unit can be arranged in or on an innovative one-piece spray gun.

A further object of the invention is to achieve a method by which a replaceable ejection medium guide unit can be removed or detached from an innovative integrated spray gun.

The first object is achieved by an integral lance according to claim 1, wherein the lance is characterized by comprising: a base body; a trigger; a paint needle activation element engaged with the trigger; a paint needle engaged with the paint needle activation element; and an exchangeable spray medium guide unit, the inlet region of which is connected or connectable to a material supply for the material to be sprayed, wherein the base body features a recess for accommodating the exchangeable spray medium guide unit. In contrast to conventional multi-piece spray guns according to the prior art, the one-piece spray gun is characterized in that the base body of the gun consists of only one piece. No parts of the base body need to be moved (e.g., pivoted, screwed on or off, clipped or glued) in order to insert or remove the replaceable jetted media directing unit. This integrated design does not affect the accessories, i.e., the features of the integrated spray gun may include multiple accessories, such as triggers, round/wide spray controls, locking screws, pneumatic micrometers, material volume control devices, and the like.

The second object is achieved with a replaceable blasting media guidance unit which can be arranged in or on the integrated lance. The replaceable blasting media guide unit is designed to be located on the integrated lance.

The third object is achieved by a material supply device that can be arranged on the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit or on the integrated spray gun or on both. The material supply means may comprise a gravity feed cup, a suction feed cup or a laterally mounted cup, or a supply line connected or connectable to an external material storage system (e.g. a paint, varnish or adhesive container). In this way, the blasting medium may flow or be sucked into the replaceable blasting medium guiding unit, respectively, and directly from the material supply into the integrated lance.

The fourth object is achieved by a cover which can be arranged on the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit or on the integrated spray gun or on both. The cover may comprise, for example, an air distribution ring or a nozzle block, which may be screwed onto the base body, for example, by means of an air nozzle ring, or arranged in another way on the base body.

The fifth object is achieved by a method of arranging an exchangeable blasting medium guide unit in or on a recess of a foundation body of an integrated spray gun.

The sixth object is obtained by a method of removing or disengaging an exchangeable blasting media guide unit from a recess of a foundation body of an integrated spray gun.

Advantageous embodiments form the object of the dependent claims.

The one-piece spray gun may be designed for use with any fluid or any aerosol (aerosol), for example for applying paint, varnish or adhesive to an object.

The inventive one-piece spray gun features a recess realized in such a way that it can accommodate a replaceable spray medium guide unit. In an operating mode, an ejection medium is supplied to the exchangeable ejection-medium guiding unit through the inlet area. The spraying medium flows through the replaceable spraying medium guide unit and then to the paint outlet, where it leaves the spray gun in an atomized manner downstream of the nozzle under the influence of the compressed air or is atomized in the vicinity of the spray gun. It is also possible to achieve atomization using at least one electric field, ultrasound, high speed rotation or another method or a combination of several different methods. The inlet area of the exchangeable spray medium guide unit can be connected or connectable to the material supply. Such material supply means may comprise, for example, a gravity feed cup, a suction feed cup or a laterally mounted cup, or a supply line connected or connectable to an external material storage unit (e.g. a paint, varnish or adhesive receptacle). Combinations using these material supplies are also contemplated. In addition, the material supply can be connected not only to the inlet region of the exchangeable spray medium guide unit, but also to the inlet region of the base body, which can be formed by a recess. In this case, the blasting medium can flow into the inlet region of the exchangeable blasting medium guiding unit via this inlet region of the base body.

The replaceable ejection media directing unit may be implemented in the form of a disposable component that is discarded after use. When the spray gun needs to be used again, a new replaceable blasting media guide unit is inserted into the recess of the spray gun. However, it will also be conceivable to remove the replaceable blasting media guide unit from the spray gun for cleaning after use and then to reinsert the replaceable blasting media guide unit.

Preferably, the recess is arranged on the upper side of the base body, transversely on the base body, or on the lower side of the base body. The groove may extend over several sides, it may be arranged over several sides, or it may extend from one side to at least the other side. In this way, the lance can be predetermined for different types of material supply means. In particular, if the spray gun is intended for use with a gravity feed cup, the recess should be provided on the upper side of the foundation body. The lateral recess allows the use of a laterally mounted cup, and the recess on the underside of the base body is advantageous when a suction feed cup is used. The external material supply means in the sense of a so-called tank gun can be arranged on any type of recess. If one or more grooves are provided on different sides, the inlet area of the replaceable ejection medium guide unit can be aligned in different positions, so that different material supplies are used for the same spray gun.

Preferably, the recess extends from the ejection medium inlet to the ejection medium outlet of the mount body. In this way, the blasting medium can be conveyed from the material supply to the nozzle of the spray gun.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the recess is characterized by at least one recessed area. In this way it is adapted to accommodate a cylindrical, conical or tapered replaceable ejection medium guide unit.

Preferably, the at least one recessed area is open towards the bottom or towards the top on its side facing the ejection medium outlet, on its side facing away from the ejection medium outlet. It is also conceivable to provide several open sides or inclined openings.

Preferably, the at least one recessed area has, at least in part, an aperture angle of less than 180 °, in particular an aperture angle between 100 ° and 179 °. In this way, the replaceable ejection medium guide unit is inserted into the groove and surely held therein while being subjected to a slight elastic deformation, without applying an external force. If the user applies an external force, the replaceable ejection medium guide unit may be removed from the groove again while being subjected to a slight elastic deformation.

The recess may be implemented in such a way that the ejection medium guiding unit cannot be inserted into, arranged on and removed from the mount body by a purely linear movement, but rather the insertion and removal movement needs to comprise at least one rotational component, e.g. a pivoting movement. This provides the advantage of: the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit is positively held by the base body without requiring an additional fixing device.

Preferably, the recess is realized in such a way that the exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit can be pivoted or slid into the recess or arranged in or on the recess by a plurality of overlapping or consecutive movements.

For example, the insertion of the exchangeable sprayed media guiding unit into a recess, which may be located on the upper or lower side of the base body or laterally thereon, may be effected as follows: the replaceable ejection-medium guiding unit is moved substantially into the vicinity of the groove, coaxial with or parallel to the axis of the groove (ejection-medium inlet axis), so that the ejection-medium outlet of the replaceable ejection-medium guiding unit is directed forward. Once the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is positioned approximately flush with the ejection medium outlet of the chassis body, a pivoting movement is performed to coaxially align the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit with the ejection medium outlet of the chassis body. The exchangeable blasting-medium guiding unit can then be moved or inserted coaxially in the direction of the blasting-medium outlet of the base body. If the replaceable ejection media guide unit is to be removed, the steps are performed in the reverse order, in the reverse direction.

In another embodiment of the inventive one-piece spray gun, in which the groove is located substantially transversely on the base body and extends up to its upper side and/or its lower side, the insertion of the replaceable ejection medium guide unit is effected as follows: the replaceable ejection-medium guide unit is pivoted in the direction of the ejection-medium outlet of the base body so that its ejection-medium outlet is directed forward. In this case, the ejection medium inlet of the replaceable ejection medium guide unit may be tilted with respect to its intended alignment. The insertion process may then comprise a movement or insertion of the replaceable ejection medium guide unit in the direction of the ejection medium outlet of the base body, for example until the replaceable ejection medium guide unit at least partially abuts a contact region of the base body or the attachment. The insertion process may further comprise pivotally moving the replaceable ejection media guide unit (and in particular the ejection media inlet thereof) into the desired position. When a gravity feed cup is used, this jet media inlet is directed substantially upward or obliquely upward, and in the other direction. When the suction feed cup or the exterior material supply device is used, the ejection medium inlet of the replaceable ejection medium guide unit is directed substantially downward or obliquely downward, and in the other direction. When using a laterally mounted cup, the replaceable ejection media guide unit may be pivoted into position from above or below and then subjected to a swiveling motion in the lateral direction. In any case, it is also possible to realize the recess in such a way that the exchangeable ejection-medium guiding unit can be pivoted into position from the other side or from either side and then undergo a swiveling movement into the desired position.

The material supply may be arranged on the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit before or after the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is inserted into the recess of the chassis body. In the first case, the material supply and the replaceable ejection medium guide unit are arranged jointly in the form of an assembly in or on the recess.

Likewise, placement of the paint needle may be accomplished before or after insertion of the replaceable ejection media guide unit. It will be conceivable to arrange the paint needle in the exchangeable spray media guiding unit before arranging the exchangeable spray media guiding unit in or on the recess. The paint needle is then detachably or inseparably connected to the paint needle activation element by means of the engagement element. The paint needle activation element may be permanently disposed in the spray gun or may be disposed in or placed in the spray gun before or after insertion of the paint needle. Likewise, it would be conceivable to place the paint needle in the exchangeable spray medium guide unit only after connection thereto. This may occur with the paint needle activation element if the paint needle and the paint needle activation element have been assembled prior to insertion. Alternatively, the paint needle may be initially inserted into the replaceable ejection media guide unit prior to connecting the paint needle activation element with the paint needle.

The friction can be attributed to the fact that the paint needle is arranged in the exchangeable spray media guide unit in such a way that, after the exchangeable spray media guide unit has been removed from the recess, it presses on the outlet opening of the exchangeable spray media guide unit and thus closes the outlet. In this way, the replaceable blasting medium guide unit can be used as a cup cover. Thus, other covering means can be dispensed with.

In addition, in any event, the process of inserting and removing the replaceable ejection media guide unit may include the activation of a trigger, for example, to move a paint needle activation element out of the path of the replaceable ejection media guide unit.

Preferably, the replaceable ejection medium guide unit is retained in the recess by a positive fit, a taper or a restraining means. In this way, the first fixing can be achieved without additional means.

Preferably, the at least one contact area in or on the groove ensures a radial and/or axial fixation of the exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit in the groove. The contact area may be characterized by, for example, a shoulder, a ring, a cone, a mesh, a hook, and/or an eyelet, which may be arranged on the replaceable ejection media guide unit and/or on the base body. Furthermore, it is also possible to arrange the contact elements on the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit and to arrange the corresponding counter-elements on the base body. The contact area may also be made in one piece with the base body and may comprise the sealing element or itself act as a seal and as a guide.

Preferably, the base body features one or more compressed air ducts, preferably extending in at least one portion of the base body not comprising a groove. In this way, compressed air may be delivered from the compressed air connection to the air nozzle, regardless of the size, shape or location of the recess.

In a particularly preferred exemplary embodiment, the exchangeable ejection-medium guiding unit can be locked on or in the base body by means of at least one fixing element. This ensures a secure fixation of the exchangeable ejected medium guiding unit in addition to the first fixation. The securing means may be characterized by, for example, mechanical, magnetic, pneumatic or hydraulic elements. It may include non-positive or positive connections, integral hinges, capture mechanisms, eccentric elements, or screw mechanisms.

Furthermore, the replaceable ejection medium guide unit may be fixed in or on the base body by the material supply means. For example, it can be realized in the form of a limiting device, i.e. the diameter of the spray medium inlet of the replaceable spray medium guiding unit increases when connecting with the material supply, e.g. when screwing or screwing on the cup respectively, or inserting or attaching the cup, so that the outer wall of the spray medium inlet of the replaceable spray medium guiding unit is pressed against the region of the spray medium inlet of the base body.

In addition, the fixing in or on the base body can be realized by a cover which is arranged on or can be arranged on the base body. For this purpose, for example, an air distribution ring or nozzle block can be utilized, which can be screwed onto the base body, for example, by means of an air nozzle ring, or otherwise arranged thereon. It is also possible to implement this component or these components in the form of a disposable article, which is intended for single use and is made of metal and/or plastic.

The magnetic element may comprise, for example, a magnet or magnetic tape disposed on or disposable on the replaceable ejected media guide unit and/or the base body. It will also be appreciated that the replaceable jetted media directing unit and/or the base body itself, or at least the feature corresponding region, may be implemented to be magnetic or magnetizable.

It will be conceivable to arrange at least one pneumatic and/or hydraulic element (for example, a cylinder, a pneumatic muscle or an air or oil cushion) on the replaceable ejection-medium guide unit and/or on the base body or arrangeable thereon and to lock the replaceable ejection-medium guide unit on the base body when it is activated.

The at least one pneumatic element may be connected to a separate compressed air supply or may be connected thereto. This separate compressed air supply can be realized, for example, in the form of a compressor which is connected to the pneumatic element by means of an air delivery unit. It is also possible to provide the connection points of the supply lines in the region of the compressed air supply or compressed air distribution, or on the compressed air generator (for example a compressor), wherein one supply line supplies the compressed air pipe with air and the other supply line supplies the pneumatic element with air. The individual supply lines may feature common or separate means for regulating the air volume and/or air pressure.

Alternatively or additionally, the at least one pneumatic element may be connected to the same compressed air supply as the compressed air conduit in the base body. This means that compressed air flows from the compressed air connection of the spray gun into the compressed air duct in the foundation body and into the pneumatic element. It can be seen as an advantage of this embodiment that the pneumatic element can be activated with only one compressed air connection to lock the exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit. The pneumatic element can be realized in such a way that it has been activated by connecting the air supply with the compressed air connection of the spray gun. Further, the activation may be accomplished by an activation trigger or by a separate activation mechanism.

The exchangeable sprayed media guiding unit and the at least one fixing means may be realized in one piece or such that the exchangeable sprayed media guiding unit is connected or connectable to the at least one fixing means in a detachable or inseparable manner. The fixing means may be manufactured together with the replaceable ejection media directing unit, e.g. injection moulded, glued, welded or clipped thereon, inserted therein or attached thereto, fused thereon or connected therewith, or may be otherwise connected therewith.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least a part of the paint needle extends through the exchangeable spray medium guide unit. It will be appreciated that at least one sealing means is arranged or can be arranged between the paint needle and the replaceable ejection medium guide unit to prevent undesirable spillage of the ejection medium. The at least one sealing device may be connected to the replaceable ejection media guide unit, or to the paint needle, or to both. In the latter case, the sealing means needs to be large enough so that a relative movement between the exchangeable spray media guide unit and the paint needle is possible. The at least one sealing means may comprise, for example, a sealing lip injection molded on the respective element, a film seal, a squeeze film, a corrugated film, a bellows film, a ring seal or another sealing means.

The paint needle may consist of one or more pieces and be made of metal or metal alloy and/or of plastic, plastic mixture, plastic alloy and/or reinforced plastic or plastic composite. For example, it is possible to reinforce plastics with glass or carbon fibres, with other fibres, or with particles (for example nanoparticles, in particular carbon nanotubes). It will be appreciated that different regions of the paint needle are composed of different materials.

The paint needle activation element may be detachably engaged with the paint needle or permanently attached to the paint needle. For example, the engagement may be achieved by a transmission (gear), a bolt engagement, a ball engagement, or a prism engagement. It is also contemplated that a combination of different engagements may be used.

Preferably, the paint needle activation element and the paint needle are or can be engaged with each other in a rotationally rigid manner. Rotation of the components may complicate removal or may inadvertently break the joint.

The exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit may consist of one part or several parts and be made of different materials. For example, the replaceable ejection media guide unit may be composed of or made of different metals and/or plastics. Different regions of the integrated replaceable jetted media directing unit, and different regions of the multi-piece replaceable jetted media directing unit, may have different colors. For example, the area through which the paint pin extends may be of a certain color or be transparent, while the ejection medium inlet area is of a different color. The color may be applied or contained or generated by in-mold labeling during and after manufacture. In a preferred embodiment, the different materials have at least partially different colors. For example, one plastic may have a different color than another plastic, one metal may have a different color than another metal, or a metal may have a different color than a plastic.

The advantages of the one-piece design are seen, in particular in that it is simple and cost-effective to manufacture and does not require assembly.

The exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit may consist of at least two parts, which are or can be connected to each other in a detachable or non-detachable manner. One component may consist of a functional component which has a different function than, or in addition to, guiding the ejection medium. Such functions may include, for example, locking the replaceable ejection media guide unit in the base body, or securing a supply of material to the replaceable ejection media guide unit. It will also be appreciated that one component may be implemented in the form of a disposable article, while another component is intended for multiple uses. One component may be made of a harder and/or stronger material than the other component. In particular, the needle guiding region may be at least partially or locally harder or stronger than the injection medium inlet region, or vice versa. In this way, tribological requirements, as well as tolerance requirements or requirements with respect to manufacturing technology can be met in a better or simpler manner.

The exchangeable spray medium directing unit may feature at least one nozzle which may or may not be detachably connected. The nozzle is of decisive importance for the quality of the lance and the quality of the injection result achieved with the lance. This is why it must meet the most stringent requirements with respect to manufacturing tolerances and dimensional stability. It may therefore be advantageous to manufacture the nozzle separately and then connect it with another, less important part of the exchangeable ejection-medium-guiding unit. Furthermore, the replaceable nozzles allow different nozzle sizes to be used. Preferably, the nozzle is made of a harder and/or stronger material than the first part of the exchangeable spray media guiding unit. As such, it has greater dimensional stability and is less sensitive to the application of force. In this case, it is also possible to realize one component in the form of a disposable article, while another component may be intended for multiple uses. It is also conceivable that the integrated exchangeable spray medium guiding unit is or can be provided with a separate nozzle.

One part of the replaceable ejection medium guide unit may be made of an elastic material or a material that can be deformed in other ways to simplify its insertion into the base body. It will be conceivable to realize at least one component of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit in an inflatable manner. Thus, it may be arranged in or on the recess before connecting it with the air supply device, for example. This air supply may consist of a separate air supply, but it would also be conceivable to inflate the inflatable replaceable spray medium guide unit with an air supply that also supplies air to the spray gun. It will also be conceivable to use a combination of two supplies, for example a separate pre-supply, which is maintained until the replaceable spray medium guide unit can be charged with air flowing through the spray gun.

The exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit may consist of at least a first part and a second part, the first part being placeable in or arranged on the base body in the region of the ejection-medium outlet and the second part being placeable in or arranged on the base body in the region of the ejection-medium inlet. Thus, for example, one component can be placed in the seat body from the front through the ejection medium outlet and another component can be placed in the seat body from above through the ejection medium inlet. Two components may be connected and overlapped in a certain area and connected to each other. In this way it is ensured that the assembled exchangeable ejection medium guide unit is held in the base body in a form-fitting manner.

In the case of an exchangeable spray medium guide unit consisting of several components, it would be conceivable to arrange at least one sealing means in the connection region of the components or in it in order to prevent an undesired overflow of the spray medium.

In a preferred embodiment of the integrated spray gun, the replaceable spray medium guide unit is characterized by at least one element for connection with the material supply. In this way, the material supply may be directly connected to the replaceable ejection media guide unit. The connection with the base body can be eliminated. The element may be characterized by at least one catch means, at least one connecting track, at least one thread or at least one thread segment. Alternatively or additionally, it is also contemplated that the replaceable ejection media directing unit may be bonded, welded or otherwise attached to or inserted into the material supply.

The replaceable ejection media guide unit may be coupled to and locked to the material supply. However, it is also possible to fix it on the base body and to connect it only indirectly with the material supply.

At least one sealing means (e.g. a ring seal) may be arranged between the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit and the material supply. However, the seal may also be produced by the material supply and/or the exchangeable ejection medium guide unit, for example if at least one of the two devices is made of a softer material, or if the two devices are connected to each other, for example by means of a thread.

The replaceable ejection medium guide unit and the material supply device may be implemented as one body. It is particularly advantageous if the exchangeable spray media guiding unit and the material supply (e.g. cup) are realized in the form of disposable items intended for single use.

If the exchangeable spray media guide unit consists of several parts, it will be conceivable that one part of the exchangeable spray media guide unit is or can be connected to the material supply in a detachable or inseparable manner. Another part of the exchangeable ejection medium guide unit can then be connected to this in a rotatable manner or can be connected to it.

The exchangeable spray medium guide unit may be made of metal or metal alloy and/or of plastic, plastic mixture, plastic alloy and/or reinforced plastic or plastic composite. In this case, it is also possible, for example, to reinforce the plastic with glass or carbon fibers, with other fibers, or with spherical or differently shaped particles (for example nanoparticles, in particular carbon nanotubes). Other enhancement or stabilization options are also contemplated.

Preferably, the exchangeable ejection-medium directing unit extends beyond the recess in the region of the ejection-medium outlet of the base body. In this way, contact between the sprayed medium and the recess can be avoided, so that cleaning of the recess is not necessary.

Alternatively, the replaceable ejection medium directing unit may terminate in front of the recess or be flush with the base body in the region of the ejection medium outlet.

The exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit can also extend beyond the recess in the region of the ejection medium inlet of the base body. In this way, the connection of the exchangeable spray media guide unit to the material supply can be simplified.

However, it is also possible for the replaceable ejection-medium guide unit to terminate in front of the recess or be flush with it in the region of the ejection-medium inlet of the base body. Thus, only a portion of the recess needs to be cleaned after contact with the blasting medium.

The recess may be designed to accommodate different sizes of replaceable ejection media guide units.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the one-piece spray gun, at least one sealing device is arranged between the exchangeable spray medium guide unit and the base body, or can be arranged therebetween. In this way, undesired material and/or air flows can be prevented and a secure seating of the exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit in the recess can be ensured. The at least one sealing means may be arranged permanently or separately on the exchangeable spray media guiding unit or on the base body. In both cases, the at least one sealing device can be injection molded or bonded to the respective component. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable to insert the at least one sealing device loosely into at least one region of the groove.

A particularly advantageous paint needle of the one-piece spray gun is equipped with at least one return spring or actuating spring, which preferably extends within the exchangeable spray medium guide unit. The spring may be supported on a stop that is disposed on the paint needle and integrally molded thereto.

It is possible to arrange a spring between the stop and the engaging element.

For example, the stopper may be implemented in the form of a cone or in the form of a disk, and disposed inside or outside the replaceable ejection medium guide unit.

The inventive method for arranging an exchangeable spray medium guiding unit in or on an integrated spray gun may comprise at least one rotational movement. Which may include, for example, a steering motion, a tipping motion, or a pivoting motion. Combinations of these types of motion are also possible.

A particularly preferred method for arranging an exchangeable spray medium guide unit in or on an integrated spray gun comprises at least the following steps: the replaceable ejection-medium guiding unit is moved substantially into the vicinity of the groove, coaxial with or parallel to the axis of the groove (ejection-medium inlet axis), so that the ejection-medium outlet of the replaceable ejection-medium guiding unit is directed forward. Once the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is positioned substantially flush with the ejection medium outlet of the chassis body, a pivoting movement is performed such that the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is coaxially aligned with the ejection medium outlet of the chassis body.

The replaceable ejection-medium guide unit may also be pivoted in the direction of the ejection-medium outlet of the base body so that its ejection-medium outlet is directed forward.

In one exemplary embodiment of the inventive method, the ejection medium inlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit may be at least temporarily tilted with respect to its intended alignment during its arrangement.

The exchangeable blasting-medium guiding unit can be made to move or be inserted coaxially in the direction of the blasting-medium outlet of the base body.

Preferably, the replaceable ejection medium guide unit (in particular its ejection medium inlet) is moved into the desired position by a swiveling motion. The replaceable ejection media guide unit may also be moved into a desired position by different movements (e.g., rotations).

The method of removing or removing the replaceable ejection media guide unit from the integral spray gun may include at least one rotational movement. This movement may include, for example, a steering movement, a tipping movement, or a pivoting movement. Combinations of these types of motion are also possible. The replaceable blasting media guiding unit may frequently undergo unintentional linear movements, so that the replaceable blasting media guiding unit may accidentally detach or disengage from the integrated lance. The risk of inadvertently removing or detaching the replaceable ejection medium guide unit from the integral lance is reduced due to the required rotational component.

Preferably, the method for removing or detaching the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit from the integrated spray gun comprises at least the steps of: the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is pivoted until the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is positioned coaxially with or parallel to the ejection medium inlet axis of the recess. The replaceable ejection medium guide unit is then removed from the recess, or separated therefrom, substantially coaxially with or parallel to the ejection medium inlet axis of the recess.

During removal of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit from the integrated spray gun or separation thereof, the ejection medium inlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit may be at least temporarily tilted with respect to its intended alignment.

The replaceable ejection-medium guiding unit may be moved coaxially or pushed or pulled away from the direction of the ejection-medium outlet of the base body.

Preferably, the replaceable ejection medium guide unit (in particular its ejection medium inlet) is moved out of the desired position by a swiveling movement.

Various representative embodiments of the integrated lance are described in more detail below with reference to 10 figures. In these figures:

figure 1 shows a side view of the base body of a first representative embodiment of the inventive one-piece spray gun,

figure 2 shows a top view of the base body of a first representative embodiment of the inventive one-piece spray gun,

figure 3 shows a side cross-sectional view of a first representative embodiment of the inventive one-piece spray gun including an accessory and a cup,

figure 4 shows a side view of the base body of a second representative embodiment of the inventive one-piece spray gun,

figure 5 shows a top view of the base body of a second representative embodiment of the inventive one-piece spray gun,

FIG. 6 shows a side cross-sectional view of a second representative embodiment of the inventive integrated spray gun including an accessory and a cup, an

Fig. 7 to 10 show different exchangeable spray media guiding units, which are suitable for use in different embodiments of the one-piece spray gun and feature different engagement elements between the paint needle and the paint needle activation element.

Fig. 1 and 2 show a base body 1a of the inventive one-piece spray gun, which features a handle region 2 and a head region 3. Conventionally, the two regions 2 and 3 extend at an angle of about 104 degrees to each other. The base body 1a features a plurality of openings for different accessories (which are not shown in fig. 1 and 2), for example an opening 100 for compressed air connection, an opening 200 for a pneumatic micrometer, an opening 300 for material volume control, openings 400 and 401 for a trigger, and an opening 500 for circular/wide spray control. The base body 1a is furthermore characterized by hooks 7, an injection medium inlet region 600, an injection medium outlet region 700 and a thread 10 for connecting an air nozzle ring.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1 and 2, the recess 61a is located on the upper side of the base body 1a in the region of the ejection medium inlet 600 of the base body 1 a. By means of the pivoting movement, the exchangeable spray medium guide unit can be inserted from the upper rear through this recess 61 into the foundation body 1a of the spray gun. The rear boundary of the groove 61a is formed by a recessed wall portion 6a of the injection medium inlet region 600, which extends in the region of the openings 400, 401 for the trigger 40 (not shown in these figures). On the other hand, the front boundary of the groove 61a is formed by a recessed wall portion 6b of the injection medium inlet region 600, which extends in the region of the beginning of the thread 10 for connecting the air nozzle ring. The bottom boundary of the recess 61a is formed by the bottom 6c of the lance base body 1 a. The groove 61a may also feature a lateral boundary formed by a wall of the lance foundation body 1 a. Alternatively, the lateral boundaries may be at least partially eliminated. In contrast to the conventional injection medium inlet region, in the embodiment shown in fig. 1, the U-shaped region of the injection medium inlet region is cut away. The groove 61a widens towards the front and/or towards the rear in the direction of the ejection medium outlet, in comparison with a conventional ejection medium inlet region, to allow insertion and removal of the exchangeable ejection medium guide unit. In the region of the recess 61a, the base body 1a features a groove 6d for fixing the exchangeable sprayed media guide unit.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the inventive one-piece spray gun including an accessory.

The base body 1a features a compressed air connection 20 on its lower end. A plurality of air ducts, not shown, extend in their entirety from the compressed air connection 20 through the handle region 2 and through the head 3 and terminate at the spray medium outlet region 700 of the lance head 3. The volume and pressure of the air flowing through these air ducts can be regulated conventionally by means of a pneumatic micrometer 21. The spray media exit region 700 of the head 3 is fitted with an air nozzle 11 featuring a projecting horn with an opening. Furthermore, the lance is equipped with an air nozzle ring 12.

The exchangeable ejection-medium guiding unit 27 is inserted into the recess 61a and extends beyond the recess 61a in the area of the ejection-medium inlet 600 and in the area of the ejection-medium outlet 700 of the base body 1 a. The outlet region 27c of the exchangeable spray medium guide unit 27 extends substantially up to the outer end of the outlet of the air nozzle 11. With the aid of the fixing means 29, the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit 27 presses against the front wall portion 6b, thereby being locked in place. In the exemplary embodiment shown, substantially the entire upper front area of the recess serves as the contact area for the replaceable ejection media directing unit 27. In this way, firm positioning in the base body 1a in the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27 is ensured.

The painting needle 26 is disposed in the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27, and guides the painting needle 26 therein through the mesh 26 a. When the trigger 40 is not actuated, the outlet area 27c of the exchangeable spray media guide unit 27 is closed by the paint needle 26.

In the present representative embodiment, the ejection medium guide unit 27 features a thread 27a for screwing or screwing on a material supply 28, i.e., a gravity feed cup 28, which is only schematically shown in fig. 3. After the gravity feed cup 28 filled with the spray medium has been screwed or screwed onto the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit 27, the spray medium flows from the gravity feed cup 28 into an inlet region 27b of the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit 27, in which the spray medium remains as long as an outlet region 27c of the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit 27 (which in this case is realized in the form of a nozzle) is closed by the paint needle 26.

When the trigger 40 is driven upwards to the first pressure point, the air valve 4 opens. This results in compressed air being delivered to the air nozzle 11 through the compressed air conduit. When the trigger 40 is additionally pulled back, the paint needle activation element 23 moves and, by means of the engagement element 5a, retracts the paint needle 26 from the outlet area 27c of the exchangeable spray media guide unit 27. At this point, the blasting media may exit the replaceable blasting media guide unit 27 and be atomized by the compressed air discharged from the air nozzle 11.

A spring 24 with a stop 25 is arranged locally around the paint needle activation element 23 and, when the trigger 40 is not activated to close the outlet, presses the paint needle 26 into the outlet of the air nozzle 11.

Figures 4 to 6 show another embodiment of the inventive integrated lance. Fig. 4 and 5 show only the foundation body 1b, respectively, while fig. 6 shows the spray gun including the accessory and the cup.

The base body of the second exemplary embodiment features a handle region 2 and a head 3, and is implemented similarly to the base body of the first exemplary embodiment. The base body 1b features openings for accessories not shown, such as, inter alia, an opening 100 for a compressed air connection 20, an opening 200 for a pneumatic micrometer 21, an opening 300 for a material volume control 22, openings 400 and 401 for a trigger, and an opening 500 for a circular/wide spray control (not shown in fig. 4). Furthermore, the base body 1b features hooks 7, an injection medium inlet region 600, an injection medium outlet region 700 and threads 10 for connecting an air nozzle ring.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the base body 1b features a recess 61b with an inlet area 600 and an outlet area 700, which is adapted to accommodate an exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit. In the embodiment shown in fig. 4 to 6, the groove 61b is arranged substantially transversely on the base body 1b, and the groove 61b extends up to the upper side of the base body 1 b. The lateral area of the head 3 is partially removed compared to a conventional spray gun. The boundary of the recess is formed by a transverse portion 6e and a bottom 6 f. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5, the partially open concave transverse portion 6e has an aperture angle of about 180 °. Preferably, however, the aperture angle is smaller, in particular between 100 ° and 179 °. In this way the recess is adapted to receive a cylindrical replaceable ejection medium guide unit. An aperture angle of less than 180 ° makes it possible to positively arrange the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit in the recess.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the inventive one-piece spray gun including an accessory.

Similar to the first representative embodiment, the base body 1b in this embodiment features a compressed air connection 20 on its lower end. In this case, a plurality of air ducts (not shown in its entirety) also extend from the compressed air connection 20 through the handle region 2 and the head 3 and end in the spray medium outlet region 700 of the lance head 3. In addition, this exemplary embodiment also features an air micrometer 21, an air nozzle 11 having an extension horn with an opening and an air nozzle ring 12.

The exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit 27 is inserted into the recess 61b and extends beyond the recess 61b in the area of the ejection medium inlet 600 and in the area of the ejection medium outlet 700 of the base body 1 b. The outlet region 27c of the exchangeable spray medium guide unit 27 extends substantially up to the outer end of the outlet of the air nozzle 11.

The replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27 is held by a fixing device, not shown. This fixing means preferably consists of an integral hinge, one end of which is permanently connected to the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27, preferably injection molded thereon, and the other end of which can be connected separately from the base body 1b, preferably by a plug connection or a clip connection. In the exemplary embodiment shown, substantially the entire lateral half of the groove serves as a contact area for the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27. In this way, it is ensured that the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27 is securely positioned in the chassis body 1 b.

The painting needle 26 is disposed in the replaceable ejection-medium guide unit 27, and the painting needle 26 is guided therein by the mesh 26a as in the first exemplary embodiment. When the trigger 40 is not actuated, the outlet area 27c of the exchangeable spray media guide unit 27 is closed by the paint needle 26.

The ejection medium guide unit 27 in the present representative embodiment is the same as in the first representative embodiment. . Also featuring a thread 27a for screwing in or screwing on a material supply (i.e. a gravity feed cup 28, only schematically shown in fig. 6). After the gravity feed cup 28 filled with the spray medium has been screwed or screwed onto the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit 27, the spray medium flows from the gravity feed cup 28 into an inlet region 27b of the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit 27, in which the spray medium remains as long as an outlet region 27c (realized in the form of a nozzle) of the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit 27 is closed by the paint needle 26.

When the trigger 40 is driven upwards to the first pressure point, the air valve 4 is opened. This results in compressed air being delivered to the air nozzle 11 through the compressed air conduit. When the trigger 40 is additionally pulled back, the paint needle activation element 23 moves and, by means of the engagement element 5b, retracts the paint needle 26 from the outlet area 27c of the exchangeable spray media guide unit 27. At this point, the blasting media may exit the replaceable blasting media guide unit 27 and be atomized by the compressed air discharged from the air nozzle 11.

A spring 24 with a stop 25 is arranged locally around the paint needle activation element 23 and, when the trigger 40 is not activated, presses the paint needle 26 into the outlet of the air nozzle 11 to close the outlet.

The sealing elements 28a and 28b are arranged on the cup 28, which is schematically shown in fig. 6, by means of predetermined breaking points. If the cup is not completely emptied after its use, this element can be snapped off the cup and put on its outlet area to seal this outlet area. In this way, the ejection medium in the cup can be preserved for subsequent use.

If the exchangeable spray media guiding unit 27 can be sealed by the paint needle 26, the sealing elements 28a and 28b can be removed, wherein the paint needle 26 can be held in the outlet area 27c of the exchangeable spray media guiding unit 27, for example, by friction.

Fig. 7 shows a simple example of a replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27 without details relating to the fixing means and the engagement elements. It has basically a two-axis design and consists of at least several assembled cylinders, cylinder parts and cones. A part of the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit 27 extending along the axis a is pierced with the paint needle 26. This component basically comprises: an elongated cylinder; an additional cylinder (which has a smaller diameter and a smaller length than the nozzle, and which may also be implemented in the form of a cone); and a cone disposed between the two cylinders and forming a transition portion between the two cylinders. Two additional cylinders are arranged along axis B, which preferably intersects axis a at an angle of about 110 °, and which have similar diameters to each other, but which are larger than the diameter of the cylinder on axis a. The larger of the two cylinders preferably features a thread for screwing in the cup. The thinner cylinder corresponds to the threadless connection of the cup and serves for its additional guidance. Naturally, it is also possible to utilize all other types of connections. The cylinders arranged along axes a and B are connected by at least one asymmetrical cone in such a way that the sprayed medium can flow from the cup into the cylinder arranged along axis a through the cylinder arranged along axis B with minimal interference. In order to mechanically support the transition region between the axes a and B, support elements 9 in the form of small triangular plates are arranged at a small angle between the axes.

Preferably, the paint needle 26 is detachably connected to the paint needle activation element 23 by means of the engagement element 5. The paint needle activation element 23 features a stop 25 against which a spring 24 (not shown in fig. 7-10) presses.

Naturally, it is also possible for the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit 27 to consist of a greater or lesser number of cylinders and cones, and to have different shapes and combinations, which, for example, transition from one another in a gradual or smooth manner. It is also possible to implement the mechanical support in different ways and to arrange it on different sides.

Such a simple replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27 may be fixed in the base body, for example, by an integral hinge. One end of this integral hinge is permanently connected to the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 27, preferably injection molded thereon, and the other end thereof is preferably detachably connected to the base body 1b by a plug connection or a clip connection.

Fig. 8 to 10 show a modification of the embodiment shown in fig. 7, which is based on this basic shape of the exchangeable ejection-medium guiding unit.

The exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 8 to 10 features an attached nozzle 8, which can be arranged on a replaceable ejection-medium guide unit. For example, the nozzle 8 may be attached to or inserted into, bonded to, or otherwise disposed on the original nozzle, but it is also possible to attach to or disposed on a replaceable ejection media guide unit that does not initially feature a nozzle.

In the device shown in fig. 8, the engagement element between the paint needle 26 and the paint needle activation element 23 is realized in the form of a ball joint 51. One of the two elements to be joined features a ball insertable in the corresponding counter-element in such a way as to positively connect the two elements at least in one direction. The counter element is opened in the at least one other direction to allow for a simple breaking of the engagement. The fixing element 291 of the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit features a counter element 291a for engaging in the groove 6d shown in fig. 1. When the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit 271 is inserted into the recess 61a of the base body 1a of the spray gun, this counter element 291a is pressed into the groove 6d and positively fixes the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit 271 in the base body 1 a. For removal, the flexible region of the fixing element is compressed such that the mating element 291a is pressed inward out of the groove 6d and the mating element 291a releases the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 271. Then, the replaceable ejection medium guide unit may be pulled out of the groove 61 a. Naturally, it is also possible to realize the counter element 291a and the groove 6d in different ways, for example in the form of hooks and eyes, and arranged at different positions of the groove 61a and the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 271. The base body 1b shown in fig. 1 to 3 can also feature a groove for accommodating the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 271.

The engagement element in fig. 9 consists of a bolted joint 52. Two bolts project laterally from one element to be joined and can be engaged in corresponding receivers on the other element to be joined. The fixture 292 of the replaceable ejection media guide unit 272 features a catch mechanism 292 a. This catch means is constituted by a resilient area, the outer edge of which is located flush with the outer edge of the replaceable ejection media guide unit 272 under the influence of force. When the elastic region is not activated, a step 292b is formed. When the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 272 is inserted into the groove, the elastic region is pressed inward. The groove is implemented in such a manner that the elastic region springs back to its original position after the full insertion, and the step of the base body abuts on the step 292b to thereby fix the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 272. The resilient area is provided with two projections which can be pressed inwards to remove the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 272 from the recess. Other capture and removal mechanisms are also contemplated.

Another option for engaging the paint needle 26 with the paint needle activation element 23 is schematically illustrated in fig. 10. In this case, the connection is realized in the form of a prismatic joint 53. The first half of the joining element consists of a prism into which the corresponding counter-element can be inserted from above. The replaceable ejection medium guide unit 273 features a fixing device 293 having an eccentric element 293 a. The eccentric member 293a can be rotated by a lever (not shown in fig. 10). During insertion of the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 273 into the recess, the lever is located in a position in which the narrow side of the eccentric element 293a is directed outward. After insertion, the lever is turned such that the wide side of the eccentric element 293a points upward and clamps the replaceable ejection medium guide unit 273 in the recess.

Naturally, it is also possible to implement the fixing element in a different way, for example with a slide which tensions the exchangeable ejection-medium guide unit when it is inserted into a slot on the fixing element. It is also possible to consider combinations of different fixing elements.

In fig. 7-10, substantially identical components, in particular paint needle activation element 23 and stopper 25, are identified by the same reference characters.

In sum, it should be noted that the representative embodiments represent only a limited set of possible embodiments, and therefore do not limit the invention in any way.

Claims (121)

1. A one-piece spray gun having a base body (1 a, 1 b), a trigger (40), a paint needle activation element (23) engaging with the trigger (40), a paint needle (26) engaging with the paint needle activation element (23), and an exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27), the inlet area (27 b) of which is connected or connectable with a material supply (28) for the material to be sprayed, characterized in that the base body (1 a, 1 b) features at least one recess (61 a, 61 b) for accommodating the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27).

2. The one-piece spraygun of claim 1, wherein the groove (61 a, 61 b) is located on an upper side of the foundation body (1 a, 1 b).

3. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the groove (61 a, 61 b) is located transversely on the base body (1 a, 1 b).

4. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the groove (61 a, 61 b) is located on the underside of the base body (1 a, 1 b).

5. The one-piece spraygun of one of the preceding claims, wherein the groove (61 a, 61 b) extends from a spraying medium inlet (600) to a spraying medium outlet (700) of the foundation body (1 a, 1 b).

6. An integral lance in accordance with one of the preceding claims, wherein the groove (61 a, 61 b) features at least one recessed area (6 a, 6 b).

7. The integrated lance of claim 6, wherein the at least one recessed area (6 a, 6 b) is at least partially open on its side facing away from the blast medium outlet (700).

8. The one-piece spray gun according to one of claims 6 or 7, characterized in that the at least one recessed area (6 a, 6 b) is at least partially open on its side facing the spray medium outlet (700).

9. Integral lance according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the at least one recessed area (6 a, 6 b) is at least partially laterally open.

10. One-piece spraygun according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that said at least one recessed area (6 a, 6 b) is at least partially open towards the bottom.

11. One-piece spraygun according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterised in that said at least one recessed area (6 a, 6 b) is at least partially open towards the top.

12. The one-piece spraygun of one of claims 6 to 11, characterized in that the at least one recessed area (6 a, 6 b) has, at least in part, an aperture angle of less than 180 °.

13. The one-piece spraygun of claim 12, wherein said at least one recessed area (6 a, 6 b) has, at least in part, an aperture angle between 100 ° and 179 °.

14. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess (61 a, 61 b) is realized in such a way that the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit (27) can be pivoted into the recess (61 a, 61 b).

15. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess (61 a, 61 b) is realized in such a way that the exchangeable blasting medium guide unit (27) can be pushed into the recess (61 a, 61 b).

16. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the grooves (61 a, 61 b) are realized in such a way that the exchangeable blasting medium guide unit (27) can be arranged in or on the grooves (61 a, 61 b) by a plurality of superimposed or successive movements.

17. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess (61 a, 61 b) is realized in such a way that the exchangeable blasting medium guide unit (27) can be arranged in or on the recess (61 a, 61 b) by positive fit.

18. The integrated lance of one of the preceding claims, wherein the grooves (61 a, 61 b) are realized in such a way that the exchangeable blasting medium guide unit (27) can be arranged in or on the grooves (61 a, 61 b) by means of a taper.

19. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recess (61 a, 61 b) is realized in such a way that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) can be arranged in or on the recess (61 a, 61 b) by means of a limiting device.

20. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) can be fixed radially in or on the groove (61 a, 61 b) by at least one contact area.

21. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) can be axially fixed in or on the groove (61 a, 61 b) by at least one contact area.

22. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) can be fixed axially or radially by at least one element.

23. The one-piece spray gun of claim 22 wherein said at least one element is characterized by a shoulder, a ring, a cone, a mesh, a hook and/or an eyelet.

24. The integrated lance of one of claims 22 or 23, wherein at least one element is arranged on the replaceable ejection medium guide unit (27).

25. The one-piece spraygun of one of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that at least one element is arranged on the foundation body (1 a, 1 b).

26. The one-piece spray gun according to one of claims 22 to 25, characterized in that at least one element is arranged on the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) and a counterpart element is arranged on the base body (1 a, 1 b).

27. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (1 a, 1 b) features one or more compressed air ducts.

28. The integrated lance of claim 27, wherein the compressed air conduit extends in at least one portion of the base body (1 a, 1 b) that does not contain a groove (61 a, 61 b).

29. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) can be locked on or in the base body (1 a, 1 b) by means of at least one fixing device (29).

30. The integrated lance of claim 29, wherein the at least one fixture (29) features at least one mechanical element.

31. The one-piece spraygun of one of claims 29 or 30, characterized in that said at least one fixing means (29) features a non-positive or positive connection.

32. An integral lance as claimed in one of claims 29 to 31, characterized in that the at least one fixing means (29) features an integral hinge.

33. The integrated lance of one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the at least one fixture (29) features a catch mechanism.

34. The one-piece spraygun of one of claims 29 to 33, characterized in that said at least one fixing device (29) features an eccentric element.

35. An integrated lance as claimed in one of claims 29 to 34, characterized in that the at least one fixing device (29) features a screw mechanism.

36. The integrated lance of one of the preceding claims, wherein the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) can be fixed in or on the base body (1 a, 1 b) by means of the material supply device (28).

37. The one-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) can be fixed in or on the base body (1 a, 1 b) by means of a cover arranged or arrangeable on the base body (1 a, 1 b).

38. The integrated lance of one of claims 29 to 37, wherein the at least one fixture (29) is characterized by at least one magnetic element.

39. Integral lance according to one of claims 29 to 38, characterized in that the at least one fixing device (29) features at least one pneumatic or hydraulic element.

40. The integrated lance of claim 39, wherein the at least one pneumatic element is connected or connectable with a separate compressed air supply.

41. Integrated spray gun according to one of claims 39 or 40, characterized in that the at least one pneumatic element is connected with the same compressed air supply device as the compressed air conduit in the base body (1 a, 1 b).

42. Integrated spray gun according to one of claims 29 to 41, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) and the at least one fixing means (29) are realized as one piece.

43. Integrated spray gun according to one of claims 29 to 41, characterized in that the replaceable ejection medium guide unit (27) is or can be connected in a detachable or non-detachable manner with the at least one fixing means (29).

44. The one-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a part of the paint needle (26) extends through the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27).

45. An integral spray gun according to claim 44, characterized in that at least one sealing device is arranged or arrangeable between the paint needle (26) and the exchangeable spray media guide unit (27).

46. The integrated lance of claim 45, wherein the at least one sealing device is connected with the replaceable ejection medium guide unit (27).

47. A one-piece spray gun according to one of claims 44 or 45, wherein said at least one sealing device is connected with said paint needle (26).

48. The integrated spray gun of one of claims 45 to 47, wherein the at least one sealing device comprises: sealing lips injection-molded on the respective elements, film seals, extrusion films, corrugated films, bellows films or ring seals.

49. One-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle (26) consists of one piece.

50. The one-piece spray gun according to one of claims 1 to 48, characterized in that the paint needle (26) is constructed from a plurality of pieces.

51. An integral spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle (26) consists of a metal or a metal alloy.

52. The one-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle (26) consists of plastic, plastic mixture, plastic alloy, reinforced plastic or plastic composite.

53. An integral spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle activation element (23) is detachably engaged with the paint needle (26) by means of a transmission.

54. An integral spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle activation element (23) is detachably engaged with the paint needle (26) by a bolt engagement (52).

55. An integral spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle activation element (23) is detachably engaged with the paint needle (26) by means of a ball joint (51).

56. A one-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle activation element (23) is detachably engaged with the paint needle (26) by a prismatic engagement (53).

57. Integrated spray gun according to one of claims 1 to 52, characterized in that the paint needle activation element (23) is permanently connected to the paint needle (26).

58. One-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle activation element (23) and the paint needle (26) are or can be engaged with each other or are or can be connected to each other in a rotationally rigid manner.

59. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) is composed of one part.

60. Integrated spray gun according to one of claims 1 to 58, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) is composed of a plurality of parts.

61. The integrated lance of one of the preceding claims, wherein the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) is composed of different materials.

62. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that different regions of the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) have different colors.

63. The one-piece spray gun of claim 62 wherein the different materials are at least partially of different colors.

64. Integrated spray gun according to one of the claims 60 to 63, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) is composed of at least two parts.

65. The integrated lance of claim 64 wherein one component is constructed of a harder or stronger material than the other component.

66. The one-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a nozzle is arranged or can be arranged on the replaceable spray medium guide unit (27) in a detachable or inseparable manner.

67. The integrated lance of claim 66 wherein the nozzle is constructed of a harder or stronger material than the replaceable ejection medium directing unit (27).

68. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a part of the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit (27) is composed of an elastic or deformable material.

69. The integrated spray gun according to one of claims 60 to 68, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) is composed of at least a first part which can be placed in or on the base body (1 a, 1 b) in the region of the spray medium outlet (700) and a second part which can be placed in or on the base body (1 a, 1 b) in the region of the spray medium inlet (600).

70. Integrated spray gun according to one of claims 60 to 69, characterized in that at least one sealing device is arranged in a connection region of a component of the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27), which connection region can be arranged.

71. One-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) features at least one element (27 a) for connection with a material supply (28).

72. The integrated lance of claim 71, wherein the at least one element (27 a) is characterized by at least one capture mechanism.

73. The one-piece spraygun of one of claims 71 or 72, characterized in that said at least one element (27 a) features at least one connection track.

74. An integral lance as claimed in one of claims 71 to 73, wherein the at least one element (27 a) features a screw member or at least a threaded segment.

75. The integrated lance of one of the preceding claims, wherein the replaceable ejection medium directing unit (27) is capable of being bonded, welded or soldered on or attached to or inserted into the material supply (28).

76. Integrated spray gun according to one of claims 1 to 70, characterized in that the replaceable ejection medium guide unit (27) and the material supply (28) are realized as one piece.

77. The integrated lance of claim 60, wherein at least one component of the replaceable ejection medium directing unit (27) is detachably or inseparably connected or connectable with the material supply (28).

78. The integrated lance of one of the preceding claims, wherein the replaceable blasting medium guide unit (27) is composed of a metal or a metal alloy.

79. The one-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) is composed of plastic, plastic mixture, plastic alloy, reinforced plastic or plastic composite.

80. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the replaceable blasting medium guide unit (27) extends beyond the recess (61 a, 61 b) in the region of the blasting medium outlet (700) of the base body (1 a, 1 b).

81. The one-piece spray gun according to one of claims 1 to 79, characterized in that in the region of the spray medium outlet (700) of the base body (1 a, 1 b) the replaceable spray medium guide unit (27) ends in front of or is flush with the groove (61 a, 61 b).

82. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable blasting-medium guiding unit (27) extends beyond the recess (61 a, 61 b) in the region of the blasting-medium inlet (600) of the base body (1 a, 1 b).

83. Integrated spray gun according to one of claims 1 to 81, characterized in that in the region of the spray medium inlet (600) of the foundation body (1 a, 1 b) the replaceable spray medium guide unit (27) ends in front of the recess (61 a, 61 b) or is flush with it.

84. One-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the recesses (61 a, 61 b) are designed for accommodating exchangeable spray medium guide units (27) of different sizes.

85. Integral lance according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one sealing device is arranged or can be arranged between the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27) and the base body (1 a, 1 b).

86. The integrated spray gun according to claim 85, characterized in that the at least one sealing means is permanently or detachably arranged on the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27).

87. Integrated spray gun according to one of the claims 85 or 86, characterized in that the at least one sealing means is permanently or detachably arranged on the foundation body (1 a, 1 b).

88. An integral lance of one of claims 85 to 87, wherein the at least one sealing device is injection moulded or bonded to the respective element.

89. Integral lance according to one of claims 85 to 88, characterized in that at least one sealing device is loosely insertable in at least one region of the groove (61 a, 61 b).

90. One-piece spray gun according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the paint needle (26) is fitted with at least one return or actuating spring (24).

91. The integrated lance of claim 90 wherein the spring (24) is supported against a stop (25).

92. The one-piece spray gun of claim 91 wherein said stop is disposed on said paint needle (26).

93. The one-piece spray gun according to claim 92, wherein the stopper (25) is integrally molded on the paint needle (26).

94. Integral lance according to one of claims 91 to 93, characterized in that the stop (25) is realized in the form of a cone.

95. Integral lance according to one of claims 91 to 93, characterized in that the stop (25) is realized in the form of a disc.

96. The integrated spray gun according to one of claims 90 to 95, characterized in that the spring (24) extends within the replaceable ejection medium guide unit (27).

97. The one-piece spray gun according to one of claims 90 to 96, characterized in that the spring (24) is arranged between the stop (25) and an engagement element (5 a, 5b, 51, 52, 53).

98. The integrated spray gun according to one of claims 91 to 97, characterized in that the stop (25) is arranged within the exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27).

99. The integrated spray gun according to one of claims 91 to 97, characterized in that the stop (25) is arranged outside the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit (27).

100. An exchangeable spray medium guide unit (27), characterized in that it can be arranged in or on an integrated spray gun according to one of the preceding claims.

101. A material supply device (28), characterized in that it can be attached to an integrated spray gun according to one of claims 1 to 99 and/or to a replaceable ejection medium guide unit (27) according to claim 100.

102. A lid, characterized in that it can be attached to an integrated spray gun according to one of claims 1 to 99 and/or to a replaceable ejection medium guide unit (27) according to claim 100.

103. A method for arranging an exchangeable spray medium guiding unit (27) in or on an integrated spray gun, characterized in that the exchangeable spray medium guiding unit (27) is arranged in or on a recess of a foundation body (1 a, 1 b) of the integrated spray gun.

104. The method according to claim 103, wherein the step of arranging the exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit (27) in or on the recess comprises at least one rotational movement.

105. The method of claim 104, wherein the at least one rotational motion is a turning motion.

106. The method of one of claims 104 or 105, wherein the at least one rotational movement is a tipping movement.

107. The method according to one of claims 104 to 106, wherein the at least one rotational movement is a pivoting movement.

108. Method according to one of the claims 104 or 107, characterized by the steps of:

-moving the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit to the vicinity of the recess substantially coaxially with or parallel to the axis of the ejection medium inlet axis of the recess such that the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is directed forward until the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is positioned substantially flush with the ejection medium outlet of the chassis body,

-pivoting the replaceable ejection medium guide unit until the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guide unit is positioned coaxially with the ejection medium outlet of the chassis body.

109. The method according to one of claims 103 to 108, wherein the arranging comprises pivoting the exchangeable ejection-medium guiding unit in the direction of the ejection-medium outlet of the base body such that the ejection-medium outlet of the exchangeable ejection-medium guiding unit is directed forwards.

110. Method according to one of claims 103 to 109, characterized in that during the arranging the ejection medium inlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is at least temporarily tilted with respect to its intended alignment.

111. The method according to one of claims 103 to 110, wherein the exchangeable ejection-medium guiding unit is coaxially displaced or inserted in the direction of the ejection-medium outlet of the base body.

112. Method according to one of claims 103 to 111, characterized in that the exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit, in particular the ejection medium inlet of the exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit, is moved into a desired position by a swiveling motion.

113. A method for removing or detaching an exchangeable spray media guiding unit (27) from an integrated spray gun, characterized in that the exchangeable spray media guiding unit (27) is removed or detached from a recess of a foundation body (1 a, 1 b) of the integrated spray gun.

114. The method according to claim 113, wherein the step of removing or detaching the replaceable ejection media guide unit (27) from the recess comprises at least one rotational movement.

115. The method of claim 114, wherein said at least one rotational motion is a turning motion.

116. The method of one of claims 114 or 115, wherein said at least one rotational movement is a tipping movement.

117. The method according to one of claims 114 to 116, wherein the at least one rotational movement is a pivoting movement.

118. Method according to one of the claims 114 or 117, characterized by the step of:

-pivoting the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit until the ejection medium outlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is positioned coaxially with or parallel to the ejection medium inlet axis of the recess,

-removing or moving the replaceable ejection medium guide unit from the recess substantially coaxially with or parallel to the ejection medium inlet axis of the recess.

119. Method according to one of claims 113 to 118, wherein during said removing the ejection medium inlet of the replaceable ejection medium guiding unit is at least temporarily tilted with respect to its intended alignment.

120. The method according to one of claims 113 to 119, wherein the exchangeable ejection medium guiding unit is coaxially displaced or pushed or pulled away from the direction of the ejection medium outlet of the base body.

121. Method according to one of claims 113 to 120, characterized in that the exchangeable ejection medium guide unit, in particular the ejection medium inlet of the exchangeable ejection medium guide unit, is moved out of the desired position by a swivel movement.