Rotor assembly for a rotary blow-out valve, rotary blow-out valve and method of transporting material in a pneumatic pipeline

BR112022014013B1Active Publication Date: 2026-09-01QLAR EUROPE GMBH
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Patent Information

Application Number
BR112022014013
Authority / Receiving Office
BR · BR
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Publication Date
2026-09-01

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Abstract

ROTOR ASSEMBLY FOR A ROTARY BLOW VALVE, ROTARY BLOW VALVE AND METHOD OF TRANSPORTING MATERIAL IN A PNEUMATIC PIPELINE. This is a self-cleaning rotary assembly for use with a rotary blow valve, an improved rotary blow valve and a method of transporting material in a pneumatic pipeline employing an improved rotary blow valve.
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Description

1 / 40 ROTOR ASSEMBLY FOR A ROTARY BLOW-OUT VALVE, ROTARY BLOW-OUT VALVE AND METHOD OF TRANSPORTING MATERIAL IN A PNEUMATIC PIPELINE FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to an improved rotor assembly for use with a rotary blow-off valve, a rotary blow-off valve for use in pneumatic conveying of particulate material and a method of conveying material in a pneumatic pipeline. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[002] Pneumatic conveying by pressure or vacuum are techniques employed to transport particulate materials along a pipeline. These techniques are typically employed to transport materials over distances typically in the range of about 10 m to 500 m, in some cases even more. Pneumatic conveying avoids the need for conveyor belts or similar equipment, which can be bulky and expensive to maintain and / or difficult to adapt to feed the combustion process.

[003] Pneumatic conveying techniques are particularly useful when material must be transported along a complex path or to multiple delivery points. These techniques also ensure that particulate material can be fully contained within a pipeline, which can avoid the need to deal with dust and / or contamination of the material along the pipeline path.

[004] Rotary valves are generally placed under silos, hoppers, other containers or mechanical conveying systems and are used, among other purposes, Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 7 / 136 2 / 40 for feeding pneumatic conveying lines for hoppers, silos, cyclones, and large container or conveyor discharge stations. This helps prevent air leakage from the conveying line, maintaining a constant supply of bulk materials.

[005] The main function of a rotary valve is to regulate the flow from one chamber to another, maintaining a good air seal, to minimize air leakage and introduce material into the pneumatic system.

[006] Air-seal rotary valves separate the pressure differentials on the inlet and outlet sides of the valve while allowing product to flow between the two. This type of rotary valve comprises a cellular rotor formed by a stem with a plurality of vanes or blades. The space between two consecutive vanes or blades defines cells or chambers, each configured to receive a predetermined volume of bulk solids (e.g., particulate materials such as coal, wood, dust, waste, and the like). The bulk solids are gravity-loaded into the rotary valve (e.g., from the discharge of a conveyor, hopper, or silo) through an inlet. As the stem rotates, any material that has been loaded into the chambers exits the rotary valve through an outlet.

[007] Rotary blow-off valves are coupled to an area where differential pressure is applied (for example, an air stream may be applied in a pneumatic conveying pipeline). The outlet of the rotary blow-off valves is coupled to a pneumatic conveying line. In use, the material loaded into the rotary valve Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 8 / 136 3 / 40 can exit the rotary valve through the outlet and is forced to travel through the transport piping by means of a pressure differential, for example, created by an air current.

[008] To keep air leakage within acceptable limits, the clearance between the rotary valve's cellular rotor and the housing is generally reduced to a minimum and maintained as much as possible during operation.

[009] Some materials, particularly lightweight, sticky, bulky, or moist materials, may adhere to the walls of the rotary valve chambers / cells, which may cause the rotary valve to jam or block and cause intermittent flow in pneumatic conveying lines coupled to rotary valves.

[0010] Rotary blow-off valves have been used to deliver high-wear, high-viscosity materials in pneumatic lines for many years. Examples of materials that can be conveyed are “alternative fuels” or “refuse-derived fuels” (RDF). These materials may include wood chips, production waste, shredder fraction, shredded tires, recycled waste, and / or waste dust.

[0011] If, due to extremely damaging materials (e.g., abrasive materials) and the resulting damage to the seal gap, there is a dramatic increase in air leakage and this is not immediately compensated for by adjusting the amount of transport air, then the lack of transport air may cause failure of the pneumatic conveying system and blockage of the conveying line. In case of failure, production must be stopped to clean / repair the rotary valve, resulting in costly downtime. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 9 / 136 4 / 40

[0012] Furthermore, when material residue remains in the rotor assembly chambers (for example, if it sticks to the chamber walls), the effective chamber volume is reduced and therefore the efficiency of material transport through the rotary blow valve is decreased.

[0013] Cleaning the rotary valve chambers or cells during operation is therefore fundamental, especially in pneumatic conveying systems for disruptive materials.

[0014] Prior art systems employ soft or hard blades or scrapers to scrape material adhering to the walls of the rotary valve chambers or cells as it rotates. Some prior art systems also use particles of the bulk material being conveyed as abrasive particles to sandblast away any material that has adhered to the rotor chamber walls.

[0015] Enhanced cleaning solutions are needed for rotary blow-off valves.

[0016] It is an objective of at least one aspect of the present invention to avoid or mitigate at least one or more of the problems mentioned above.

[0017] It is a further objective of at least one aspect of the present invention to provide an improved rotor assembly for use with a rotary blow-off valve.

[0018] Yet another objective is an aspect of the present invention to provide an improved rotary blow-off valve. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0019] According to a first aspect of Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 10 / 136 5 / 40 of the present invention provides a rotor assembly for a rotary blow-off valve, wherein the rotor assembly comprises:

[0020] a drive rod, which defines a geometric drive axis along its length; and

[0021] at least one chamber operationally connected to the drive rod, to at least one chamber comprising a first end wall and a second end wall, the first and second end walls axially spaced along the geometric drive axis; and

[0022] a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein the first and second side walls extend substantially laterally from the geometric drive axis, each side wall extending substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis, to at least one chamber that defines an opening in or towards a radial outer portion of the chamber; and

[0023] wherein at least one chamber is asymmetrical along a plane containing the geometric drive axis such that, in use, at least one chamber stimulates a vortex flow when the chamber opening is in contact with a gas flow. In other words, a portion of at least one chamber may be operatively connected to, or integral with, or extend from the geometric drive axis. The first end wall and the second end wall of at least one chamber may be angled to the geometric drive axis and arranged along the direction of the geometric drive axis. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 11 / 136 6 / 40

[0024] The first end wall can be arranged from about 130° to about 170° relative to the second end wall. The first end wall and the second end wall can be offset by about 130°, or about 135°, or about 140°, or about 145°, or about 150°, or about 155°, or about 160°, or about 165°, or about 170°. The second end wall can extend from the geometric drive axis.

[0025] At least one chamber may define a concave surface along the general direction of the geometric drive axis. At least one chamber may define a concave surface from the first end wall to the second end wall. The concave surface, in use, may be configured to receive material. The concave surface may be an asymmetrical concave surface. At least one chamber may define a concave surface along a plane containing the geometric drive axis, the concave surface being configured to receive the material in use. The concave surface may be an asymmetrical concave surface. In use, the concave surface of the chamber may stimulate vortex flow when the chamber opening is in contact with a gas flow. In other words, the inner surface of at least one chamber or cavity may be a concave surface along the geometric drive axis.

[0026] The side of at least one chamber that is not configured to be in contact with the material (i.e., the side of the chamber opposite the concave surface) may define a convex surface. At least part of the convex surface of the chamber may be integral or operatively coupled to the rod of Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 12 / 136 7 / 40 drive along the geometric drive axis. The second end wall may extend from the geometric drive axis. In other words, an outer surface of the chamber may be convex, and this convex surface may be operatively connected to or integral with the drive rod.

[0027] The rotor assembly may comprise a plurality of chambers. The chambers may be arranged in a circular or substantially circular pattern around the drive rod. The chambers may be in any form of elliptical pattern around the drive rod.

[0028] The first end wall and the second end wall may be directly connected. There may be an intermediate portion between the first and second end walls. There may be multiple intermediate portions. At least one of the intermediate portion(s) may be parallel or substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis.

[0029] The first end wall, the second end wall, and any intermediate portion(s), if present, may be a continuous surface. For example, the first end wall, the second end wall, and the intermediate portion may form a continuous surface that may be a continuous curved surface. For example, the first end wall, the second end wall, and the intermediate portion may be a continuous parabolic surface. The first end wall, the second end wall, and any intermediate portion(s), if present, may be independent surfaces connected to each other. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 13 / 136 8 / 40

[0030] For example, in embodiments where there is a first end wall, an intermediate portion (if present), and a second end wall, the first end wall may be connected (e.g., welded or otherwise coupled) or integral with the second end wall. The first end wall may be connected (e.g., welded or otherwise coupled) or integral with the intermediate portion on one side of the intermediate portion, and the second end wall may be connected (e.g., welded or otherwise coupled) or integral with the opposite side of the intermediate portion.

[0031] The first side wall may be connected (e.g., welded or otherwise coupled) or integral with the first end wall, the intermediate portion (if present) and the second end wall along the longitudinal geometric axes of the first end wall, intermediate portion (if present) and second end wall.

[0032] The second side wall may be connected (e.g., welded or otherwise coupled) or integral with the first end wall, the intermediate portion (if present), and the second end wall along the longitudinal geometric axes of the first end wall, intermediate portion (if present), and second end wall. The first and second side walls may be connected (e.g., welded or otherwise coupled) or integral with the first end wall, the intermediate portion (if present), and the second end wall on either and / or opposite sides of the drive geometric axis. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 14 / 136 9 / 40

[0033] The first end wall may extend at a first angle relative to the geometric drive axis. The second end wall may extend at a second angle relative to the geometric drive axis. The first angle and the second angle may be different. The first angle and the second angle may be the same. The first angle may be an obtuse angle. The second angle may be an obtuse angle. The first angle may be greater than the second angle.

[0034] The first end wall may extend at a first angle relative to the intermediate portion. The second end wall may extend at a second angle relative to the intermediate portion. The intermediate portion may be aligned or parallel to the geometric drive axis and therefore the angle between the first / second end wall and the intermediate portion may be the same as the angle between the first / second wall and the geometric drive axis.

[0035] The first angle and the second angle may be different. The first angle and the second angle may be the same. The first angle may be an obtuse angle. The second angle may be an obtuse angle. The first angle may be larger than the second angle.

[0036] The first angle may vary from approximately any of the following: from approximately 130° to approximately 170°; from approximately 130° to approximately 160°; from approximately 130° to approximately 150°; from approximately 130° to approximately 140°; from approximately 130° to approximately 135°; from approximately 145° to approximately 150°; from approximately 140° to approximately 170°; from approximately 150° to approximately 160°; from approximately 155° to approximately 160°; from approximately 140° to Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 15 / 136 10 / 40 approximately 150°; from approximately 145° to approximately 150°; or from approximately 150° to approximately 155°, from approximately 160° to approximately 170°, from approximately 165° to approximately 170°, from approximately 160° to approximately 165°. The first angle can be selected from any of the following: approximately 125°; approximately 130°; approximately 135°; approximately 140°; approximately 145°; approximately 150°; approximately 155°; approximately 160°; or approximately 165°, approximately 160°, approximately 175°.

[0037] The second angle may vary from approximately any of the following: approximately 130° to approximately 180°; approximately 130° to approximately 170°; approximately 130° to approximately 160°; approximately 130° to approximately 150°; approximately 130° to approximately 140°; approximately 130° to approximately 135°; approximately 145° to approximately 150°; approximately 140° to approximately 160°; approximately 150° to approximately 170°; approximately 150° to approximately 160°; approximately 155° to approximately 160°; approximately 170° to approximately 180°; approximately 160° to approximately 170°; from approximately 160° to approximately 180°; from approximately 140° to approximately 150°; from approximately 145° to approximately 150°; from approximately 150° to approximately 155°. The first angle can be selected from any of the following: approximately 125°; approximately 130°; approximately 135°; approximately 140°; approximately 145°; approximately 150°; approximately 155°; approximately 160°; approximately 165°; approximately 170°; approximately 175°; approximately 180° or approximately 185°.

[0038] An edge (e.g., an outer edge or outermost portion) of the first end wall may be disposed at a first distance (aa) from the geometric drive axis. An edge (e.g., an outer edge or outermost portion) of the second end wall may be disposed at a second distance (bb) from the geometric axis. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 16 / 136 11 / 40 actuation. The first distance (aa) can be greater than the second distance (bb).[A1]

[0039] The first end wall may be longer than it is wide. The second end wall may be longer than it is wide. The middle portion may be longer than it is wide. The middle portion may be longer than it is wide.

[0040] The first end wall may be larger than the second end wall. The first end wall and / or the second end wall may be larger than the intermediate portion. The first end wall may be approximately 10% larger than the second end wall, or approximately 15% larger than the second wall, or approximately 20% larger than the second end wall, or approximately 25% larger than the second wall, or approximately 30% larger than the second wall, or approximately 35% larger than the second wall, or approximately 40% larger than the second wall, or approximately 45% larger than the second wall, or approximately 50% larger than the second wall.

[0041] The first end wall may be at least 25% of the chamber length along the geometric drive axis. The first end wall may be at least 30%, or at least 35%, or at least 40%, or at least 45%, or at least 55% of the chamber length along the geometric drive axis.

[0042] Within the context of this application, the length of the chamber along the geometric axis of the drive can be defined as the length of the surface disposed along the geometric axis of the drive. In other words, the length of the chamber along the geometric axis. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 17 / 136 12 / 40 drive can be understood as the distance from an edge of the first end wall to an edge of the second end wall, measured along the direction of the geometric drive axis.

[0043] The camera can set a basket or bucket. The camera can set an asymmetrical basket or bucket. The camera can set a triangular basket or bucket. The camera can set a scalene triangular basket or bucket. The camera can set a trapezoidal basket or bucket. The camera can set an isosceles trapezoidal basket or bucket. The camera can set a scalene trapezoidal basket or bucket. The camera can set an acute trapezoidal basket or bucket.

[0044] The rotor assembly may be self-cleaning. The rotor assembly may employ the Coanda effect to clean the chamber or chambers of the rotor assembly. The geometry of the chamber or chambers of the rotor assembly may generate a vortex flow within said chamber or chambers when the chamber is in contact with a gas flow (e.g., from a pneumatic tubing).

[0045] In use, the rotor assembly can be configured to be disposed within the housing of a rotary blow valve, and the rotor assembly can be configured to rotate around the geometric drive axis so that the chamber defines a loading configuration in which the chamber opening is operatively connected to a housing inlet and a discharge configuration in which the chamber opening is operatively connected to a housing outlet. The rotary chamber can be configured to receive material through the housing inlet when the rotor assembly is in the loading configuration. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 18 / 136 13 / 40 loading.

[0046] In use, the chamber can be configured to receive a gas flow in the discharge configuration so that the gas flow helps to remove material from the chamber.

[0047] The chamber can define an asymmetric gas flow path within the chamber in the discharge configuration, such that the asymmetric flow path scrapes material from the chamber walls.

[0048] In embodiments where the first end wall is longer than the second end wall, when the rotor assembly is in the discharge configuration, the first end wall may be configured to be located adjacent to a pressurized gas inlet of a rotary blow-off valve. The pressurized gas inlet may be configured to provide pressurized gas flow along a geometric gas axis. The geometric gas axis may be substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis. In use, the pressurized gas flow may contact the first end wall, enter the chamber, and follow the chamber surface from the first end wall to the second end wall, deviating from the geometric gas axis and creating a vortex flow within the chamber so that material is substantially removed from the chamber walls.

[0049] When the chamber is in the discharge configuration, at least a portion of the first end wall may cross the pressurized gas flow. When the chamber is in the discharge configuration, an outermost edge of the first end wall may cross the pressurized gas flow. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 19 / 136 14 / 40

[0050] When the chamber is in the discharge configuration, the pressurized gas inlet may be arranged on or towards a more external portion of the first end wall, so that the pressurized gas flow from the pressurized gas inlet follows the chamber surface from the first end wall to the second end wall.

[0051] The pressurized gas inlet can be a primary pressurized gas inlet. The primary pressurized gas inlet can be configured to supply pressurized gas to substantially remove material from the chamber walls and to transport the material in, for example, a pneumatic pipeline.

[0052] The pressurized gas inlet can be a secondary pressurized gas inlet. The secondary pressurized gas inlet can be configured to supply pressurized gas to substantially remove material from the chamber walls.

[0053] In embodiments where there is a secondary pressurized gas inlet, there may also be a primary pressurized gas inlet to transport the material in, for example, a pneumatic pipeline. The primary pressurized gas inlet may be configured to supply pressurized gas along a primary geometric gas axis, and the secondary pressurized gas inlet may be configured to supply pressurized gas along a secondary geometric gas axis. The primary and secondary geometric gas axes may be substantially parallel to the drive geometric axis. The primary geometric pressurized gas axis, the secondary geometric pressurized gas axis, and the drive geometric axis may be Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 20 / 136 15 / 40 all arranged in the same xy plane (or substantially in the same xy plane). The primary geometric axis of pressurized gas and the geometric axis of the drive may be arranged in the same xy plane (or substantially in the same xy plane) and the secondary geometric axis of pressurized gas may be offset from the xy plane that contains the primary geometric axis of pressurized gas and the geometric axis of the drive.

[0054] The secondary pressurized gas inlet may be located above the primary gas inlet, on the same plane as the primary pressurized gas inlet. The secondary pressurized gas inlet may be located above and beside the primary pressurized gas inlet. The secondary pressurized gas inlet may be located above the primary gas inlet, on a different plane from the primary pressurized gas inlet.

[0055] The secondary pressurized gas inlet can be arranged adjacent to the first end wall. In other words, the secondary pressurized gas inlet can be arranged in close proximity to the first end wall. In use, the pressurized gas exiting the secondary pressurized gas inlet can be displaced so that the pressurized gas follows the shape of the chamber from the first end wall to the second end wall. The arrangement of the secondary pressurized gas inlet 10 adjacent to the first end wall can allow the Coanda effect to occur.

[0056] The gas flow velocities of the primary and secondary pressurized gas inlets may be substantially equal or similar. The velocities of Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 21 / 136 16 / 40 Gas flow from the primary and secondary pressurized gas inlets may differ. The gas flow velocities from the primary and secondary pressurized gas inlets may be subsonic. The gas flow velocities from the primary and secondary gas inlets may be higher than the gas flow velocities in the transport pipe. The gas flow velocity from the primary and secondary gas inlets may exceed approximately 15 m / s.The gas flow velocities of the primary and secondary pressurized gas inlets can be selected from any of the following: from about 100 m / s to about 200 m / s; from about 120 m / s to about 200 m / s; from about 140 m / s to about 200 m / s; from about 160 m / s to about 200 m / s; from about 180 m / s to about 200 m / s; from about 180 m / s to about 200 m / s; from about 100 m / s to about 120 m / s; from about 100 m / s to about 140 m / s; from about 100 m / s to about 150 m / s; or from about 100 m / s to about 160 m / s. Without wanting to be limited by theory, subsonic gas flow velocities at the primary and secondary pressurized gas inlets that are higher than the gas flow velocity in the transport pipe can allow for a cleaning effect in the chamber without disturbing the transport flow in the transport line.

[0057] In a second aspect of the invention, a rotary blow-off valve is provided comprising:

[0058] (i) a housing that has an entrance for receiving material and an exit for releasing the material;

[0059] (ii) a set of rotors comprising:

[0060] a drive rod, which defines a geometric drive axis along its length; and Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 22 / 136 17 / 40

[0061] at least one chamber operationally connected to the drive rod, wherein at least one chamber comprises:

[0062] a first end wall and a second end wall, the first and second end walls axially spaced along the geometric drive axis; and

[0063] a first side wall and a second side wall, the first and second side walls extending substantially laterally from the geometric drive axis, each side wall extending substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis; and

[0064] at least one chamber that is asymmetrical along a plane containing the geometric axis of drive and that defines an opening in or towards a radial external portion of at least one chamber;

[0065] wherein the rotor assembly is configured to rotate about the geometric drive axis so that at least one chamber defines:

[0066] a loading configuration in which the opening of at least one chamber is operatively connected to the housing input; and

[0067] a discharge configuration in which the opening of at least one chamber is operatively connected to the housing outlet;

[0068] (iii) a pressurized gas inlet configured to provide a pressurized gas flow; and

[0069] (iv) a recess for transporting material released from the rotor assembly; Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 23 / 136 18 / 40

[0070] wherein the rotor assembly is arranged within the housing such that the first end wall of at least one chamber is disposed adjacent to the pressurized gas inlet when at least one chamber is in the discharge configuration such that;

[0071] at least a portion of the pressurized gas flow is configured to come into contact with the first end wall of at least one chamber, enter the chamber and follow the chamber surface from the first end wall to the second end wall, deviating from the geometric axis of the gas and creating a vortex flow within at least one chamber.

[0072] In the at least one chamber discharge configuration, the material retained in at least one chamber is configured to be delivered to the recess. For example, the material may fall from at least one chamber to the recess by gravity. Additionally, the vortex flow may be configured to substantially remove material from the walls of at least one chamber and to distribute the material to the recess.

[0073] The rotor assembly may have any of the features described in the first aspect.

[0074] That is, in some embodiments, the rotary blow-off valve may comprise a single pressurized gas inlet. The pressurized gas inlet may be configured to carry material exiting at least one chamber of the rotary valve in the discharge configuration and to remove material from the walls of at least one chamber by means of a vortex flow.

[0075] In these modalities, the gas input Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 24 / 136 A 19 / 40 pressurized inlet can be a primary pressurized gas inlet that is configured to supply pressurized gas along a primary geometric gas axis to substantially remove material from the chamber walls and to transport the material in, for example, a pneumatic pipeline.

[0076] When the chamber is in the discharge configuration, at least a portion of the pressurized gas flow may deviate from the primary geometric gas axis and create an asymmetric gas flow path within the chamber, such that the asymmetric flow path scrapes material from the chamber walls.

[0077] In other embodiments, the rotary blow-off valve may comprise two pressurized gas inlets: a primary pressurized gas inlet and a secondary pressurized gas inlet. The secondary pressurized gas inlet may be configured to remove material from the walls of at least one chamber by means of a vortex flow. The primary pressurized gas inlet may be configured to transport material exiting at least one chamber of the rotary valve in the discharge configuration.

[0078] The pressurized gas inlet may be a secondary gas inlet that provides pressurized gas to substantially remove material from the chamber walls.

[0079] The rotary blow-off valve may further comprise a primary pressurized gas inlet configured to convey the material in a pneumatic pipeline, wherein the primary pressurized gas inlet is configured to supply pressurized gas along a primary geometric gas axis and the secondary gas inlet Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 25 / 136 The 20 / 40 pressurized system is configured to supply pressurized gas along a secondary geometric gas axis. The primary and secondary geometric gas axes may be substantially parallel to the drive geometric axis.

[0080] The primary geometric axis of pressurized gas and the geometric axis of the drive may be parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically (or substantially vertical) aligned with the geometric axis of the drive. The secondary geometric axis of pressurized gas may be parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically offset from the primary geometric axis of pressurized gas and the geometric axis of the drive.

[0081] The secondary pressurized gas inlet may be arranged adjacent to the first end wall. In other words, the secondary pressurized gas inlet may be arranged in close proximity to the first end wall. In use, the pressurized gas is configured to exit the secondary pressurized gas inlet, contact the first end wall of at least one chamber, and be displaced or deviated from the secondary pressurized gas geometric axis so that the pressurized gas follows the shape of at least one chamber from the first end wall to the second end wall.

[0082] The drive rod can be configured to rotate around the geometric drive axis, moving the rotor chamber from a vertical to an inverted position. The material can then be released into the recess through the housing outlet. The recess can be operatively connected to a pneumatic pipe. As the material enters the recess, it can be blown away. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 26 / 136 21 / 40 out of the gas outlet from the gas inlet. The material can then be conveyed to a pneumatic pipe, where it can be transported to a furnace and / or other piece of equipment.

[0083] The pressurized gas inlet (e.g., primary pressurized gas inlet, secondary pressurized inlet, or both) may be located in the recessed area.

[0084] The pressurized gas flow can be configured to scrape off material stuck to the walls of the rotary chamber when the rotary chamber is positioned above the recess. When the apparatus is connected to a pneumatic line, the pressurized gas flow can be configured to transport all the material in the rotary chamber along the recess towards a pneumatic line.

[0085] In use, the rotary blow-through valves according to the invention can be used to supply any bulk material in pneumatic conveying systems. The rotary blow-through valves can be used for supplying bulky, high-wear, and high-viscosity materials for many years. Examples of materials that can be conveyed are “alternative fuels” or “refuse-derived fuels” (RDF). These materials may include wood chips, production waste, shredder fraction, shredded tires, recycled waste and residual dust, dry powders (e.g., in the pharmaceutical industry), dusts (e.g., cement), granular products, and the like. Any of these materials can be conveyed using the self-cleaning rotary blow-through valves of the invention, maintaining a sealing condition of Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 27 / 136 22 / 40 air.

[0086] Advantageously, the rotary blow-off valves according to the present invention comprise a self-cleaning rotor assembly. The rotary blow-off valves of the present invention therefore require less maintenance than conventional rotary blow-off valves. This increases the productivity of pneumatic piping systems, as it greatly reduces or eliminates the need to stop production at regular intervals to clean the rotor assembly.

[0087] Furthermore, the rotary blow-off valves according to the invention provide more efficient cleaning of the rotor assembly chambers compared with prior art rotary blow-off valves that use mechanical means in self-cleaning rotary assemblies.

[0088] The self-cleaning rotor assembly of rotary blow valves according to the invention is also more efficient than prior art rotary blow valves, since keeping the rotor assembly chambers free of residue and / or debris allows the rotary valve chamber(s) to maximize the volume of material transferred with each revolution (i.e., the capacity of the chamber(s) is not reduced over time). Furthermore, since all material cleaned from the chamber(s) walls is delivered into the recess, the volume of material transported using this rotary valve is maximized. This is clearly advantageous, particularly compared to prior art rotary valve systems where any material removed from the chamber walls is lost. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 28 / 136 The 23 / 40 rotary valve is discarded.

[0089] The self-cleaning rotor assembly of rotary blow valves according to the invention minimizes the problems of clogging or blockage of the blow through rotary valves, which also assists in maintaining the air seal inside the rotary valve. This is particularly advantageous in pneumatic conveying systems that process sticky or wet materials (e.g., bulk waste materials), as this type of material is extremely difficult to process and tends to adhere to the chambers of rotary assemblies, causing blockages in conventional rotary blow valves.

[0090] In a third aspect of the invention, a method for transporting material in a pneumatic tube is provided, wherein the method comprises:

[0091] (i) supplying a rotary blow-off valve comprising:

[0092] (a) a building that has an entrance for receiving material and an exit for releasing the material;

[0093] (b) a set of rotors arranged inside the housing, wherein the set of rotors comprises:

[0094] a drive rod, which defines a geometric drive axis along its length; and

[0095] at least one camera operationally connected to the drive rod, wherein the

[0096] at least one chamber comprises a first end wall and a second end wall, the first and second end walls being axially spaced along the geometric drive axis; and a Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 29 / 136 24 / 40 first side wall and second side wall, wherein the first and second side walls extend substantially laterally from the geometric drive axis, with each side wall extending substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis; and

[0097] at least one chamber that is asymmetrical along a plane containing the geometric axis of drive and that defines an opening in or towards a radial external portion of at least one chamber;

[0098] wherein the rotor assembly is configured to rotate about the geometric drive axis such that at least one chamber defines a loading configuration in which the opening of at least one chamber is operatively connected to the housing inlet; and a discharge configuration in which the opening of at least one chamber is operatively connected to the housing outlet;

[0099] (c) a pressurized gas inlet; and

[00100] (d) a recess for transporting material released from the rotor assembly;

[00101] (ii) connect the rotary blow-off valve recess with a pneumatic pipe;

[00102] (iii) insert material through the rotary blow valve inlet so that the material is loaded into at least one chamber of the rotor assembly when the rotary blow valve is in the loading configuration;

[00103] (iv) rotate the rotor assembly so that at least one chamber is operationally connected to the housing outlet in the discharge configuration; Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 30 / 136 25 / 40

[00104] (v) provide pressurized gas flow through the pressurized gas inlet;

[00105] wherein when at least one chamber is in the discharge configuration, at least a portion of the pressurized gas flow comes into contact with the first end wall of at least one chamber, enters at least one chamber and follows a surface of at least one chamber from the first end wall to a second end wall such that at least a portion of the gas flow deviates from the geometric gas axis and creates a vortex within at least one chamber, the vortex substantially removing material from the chamber walls and delivering the material to the recess; and

[00106] (vi) transport the material in the pneumatic tubing.

[00107] The pressurized gas inlet may be arranged along a geometric gas axis. The geometric gas axis may be substantially parallel to the geometric axis of the rotary valve's drive. The geometric gas axis may not be parallel to the geometric axis of the rotary valve's drive.

[00108] The rotor assembly and / or rotary blower valve may have any features as defined in the first and second aspects.

[00109] Other optional features disclosed in relation to each aspect of the invention correspond to other optional features of any other aspect of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00110] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 31 / 136 26 / 40 Figures below in which:

[00111] Figure 1 shows an image of a set of rotors of the prior art for a rotary blow-off valve;

[00112] Figure 2 shows an image of a rotating camera from the previous technique with accumulated material;

[00113] Figure 3 shows an image of a chamber of a rotor assembly for a rotary blower valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00114] Figure 4a shows a schematic representation of a vertical cross-section of a rotor assembly chamber along an xy plane according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00115] Figure 4b shows a schematic representation of a vertical cross-section of a rotor assembly chamber along an xy plane, similar to that in Figure 4a, according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[00116] Figure 4c shows a schematic representation of a vertical cross-section of a rotor assembly chamber along an xy plane, similar to that in Figure 4a, according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[00117] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a rotary blower valve according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00118] Figure 6 shows a vertical cross-section along the xy plane of the rotary blow-off valve of Figure 5, showing a rotor assembly with one chamber in the loading configuration and one chamber in the configuration Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 32 / 136 27 / 40 discharge according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00119] Figure 7 shows a vertical cross-section along the yz plane of the rotary blow-off valve of Figures 5 and 6, showing a set of rotors with ten chambers according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[00120] Figure 8 shows a horizontal cross-section along the xz plane of the rotary blower valve of Figures 5, 6 and 7, showing two consecutive chambers of the rotor assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00121] A description of the Figures is provided below.

[00122] Figure 1 shows an image of a prior art rotor assembly for a rotary blow-off valve. Three of the rotor assembly chambers can be seen in the image. Each chamber comprises two side walls that extend radially from a drive rod and extend laterally along the drive rod (not shown) and connected by an intermediate portion.

[00123] As shown in Figure 2, the rotary assemblies of the prior art suffer from material buildup on the inner walls of the rotor assembly chambers. This is problematic because the chamber capacity volume is reduced over time and can potentially lead to clogging of the rotor assembly. Therefore, pneumatic conveying lines employing prior art rotary blow-off valves need to be regularly stopped to disassemble the rotary valves for Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 33 / 136 28 / 40 Access and clean the chambers of the rotating assemblies.

[00124] Figure 3 shows an image of a rotor assembly chamber for a rotary blow valve 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. After eight months in a confidential test operation at the bulk waste processing plant, the chamber shows almost no material buildup on the inner walls of the rotor assembly chamber, despite the processed waste material being sticky. This is because the rotor assembly of the present invention is self-cleaning.

[00125] Figure 4a is a schematic representation of a vertical cross-section of a rotor assembly chamber along an xy plane according to an embodiment of the present invention. The chamber is shown in a discharge configuration in which the rotor assembly chamber is operatively coupled to an outlet in the rotary valve housing.

[00126] The chamber has a first end wall 112 and a second end wall 114, the first and second end walls 112, 114 being axially spaced along a geometric drive axis 104 that extends along the length of a drive rod (not shown). The first and second end walls 112, 114 are connected by means of an intermediate portion 116. The intermediate portion 116 is substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis 104 of the rotor assembly.

[00127] The first end wall 112 extends from the intermediate portion 116 at a first angle a. The first end wall 112 also defines the same Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 34 / 136 29 / 40 first angle relative to the geometric drive axis 104. The second end wall 114 extends at a second angle p relative to the intermediate portion 116 30 (and therefore also relative to the geometric drive axis 104). The first and second angles aep are both obtuse and in this particular embodiment the first angle a is greater than the second angle p. However, the first and second angles aep may be identical or substantially identical.

[00128] The first angle a can be from about 130° to about 170°. The second angle p can be from about 130° to about 180°.

[00129] The first end wall 112 is arranged at an angle y of about 10° to about 50° with the geometric axis 104. The second end wall 114 is arranged at an angle $ of about 0° to about 50°. The first end wall 112 and the second end wall 114 are arranged at an angle of about 80° to about 170° from each other.

[00130] The edge (e.g., the outer edge or outermost portion) of the first end wall is located at a first distance (aa) from the geometric drive axis. The edge (e.g., an outer edge or outermost portion) of the second end wall is located at a second distance (bb) from the geometric drive axis. The first distance (aa) is greater than the second distance (bb).

[00131] The first end wall 112 is longer than the second end wall 114. The first end wall 112 is arranged adjacent to a secondary pressurized gas inlet 300. The pressurized gas inlet 300 in this embodiment is a nozzle that supplies gas. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, pp. 35 / 136 30 / 40 pressurized (e.g., compressed air) along a secondary geometric gas axis 310. When the pressurized gas encounters the edge of the first end wall, it deviates from the secondary geometric gas axis 310 and follows the chamber surface from the first end wall 112 to the second end wall 114, passing through the intermediate portion 116. Therefore, the chamber defines an asymmetric gas flow path 710 inside the chamber in the discharge configuration, such that the asymmetric flow path 710 scrapes away any material that may be attached to the chamber walls.

[00132] Located below and to the left of the secondary pressurized gas inlet 300, there is a primary gas inlet 200, which is also a nozzle that provides a flow of pressurized gas (e.g., compressed air) 800 along a primary geometric gas axis 210. The secondary pressurized gas inlet 300 is located above the primary gas inlet 200, on a different xy plane than the primary pressurized gas inlet 200.

[00133] The primary pressurized gas inlet 200 provides a higher volume flow than the secondary pressurized gas inlet 300. The gas flow velocities of the primary and secondary pressurized gas inlets 200, 300 are similar and approximately 100 m / s and approximately 200 m / s. This arrangement generates a pressure differential in the chamber, which leads to the creation of a vortex 720 inside the chamber.

[00134] Therefore, the chamber shape along the geometric axis of drive (i.e., from the first end wall 112, to the intermediate portion 116 and to the second end wall 114) distributes the flow pressure. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 36 / 136 31 / 40 of gas from the primary inlet 200 and secondary inlet 300 of pressurized gas around the inner surface of the chamber and creates an asymmetrical flow path 710.

[00135] Without wanting to be limited by theory, the creation of the asymmetric gas flow path can be based on the Coanda effect.

[00136] Figure 4b shows a similar schematic representation of a vertical cross-section of a rotor assembly chamber according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the first and second end walls 112, 114 are axially spaced along a geometric drive axis 104 running along the length of a drive rod (not shown), but are directly connected to each other.

[00137] The first end wall 112 is arranged at an angle y of about 10° to about 50° with the geometric axis 104. The second end wall 114 is arranged at an angle $ of about 0° to about 50°. The first end wall 112 and the second end wall 114 are arranged at an angle of about 80° to about 170° from each other.

[00138] Figure 4c shows a similar schematic representation of a vertical cross-section of a rotor assembly chamber according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the first and second end walls 112, 114 are axially spaced along a geometric drive axis 104 that runs along the length of a drive rod (not shown). The first and second end walls are part of a single folded surface, which is operatively connected in Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 37 / 136 32 / 40 a region 116 to a rod (not shown), which runs along a geometric axis 104.

[00139] The first end wall 112 is arranged at an angle y of about 10° to about 50° with the geometric axis 104. The second end wall 114 is arranged at an angle 6 of about 0° to about 50°. The first end wall 112 and the second end wall 114 are arranged at an angle of about 80° to about 170° from each other.

[00140] The camera may have a curved profile, for example, a parabolic shape, to allow the Coanda effect to occur.

[00141] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a rotary blow-off valve 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, the rotary blow-off valve 500 is viewed from the side, along a geometric drive axis 104 of the rotor assembly. The rotor assembly (not shown) is disposed within a housing 510 and is configured to rotate about a rod that defines the geometric drive axis 104 along its length.

[00142] The rotary blow-off valve 500 defines an opening or inlet 512 to receive material to be transported to, for example, a pneumatic pipeline.

[00143] Normally, the rotary blow valve 500 will be operatively connected to the conveying system of a hopper, silo or similar container, so that the bulk material contained therein can enter the rotary blow valve 500 through inlet 512.

[00144] Inside accommodation 510, the set Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, pp. 38 / 136 33 / 40 of rotors 100 rotate around the geometric drive axis 104, thus sequentially exposing the different chambers 106 to the housing inlet 512. As the rotor assembly rotates around the geometric drive axis 104, the chambers of the rotor assembly move from a loading configuration (in this case, when a chamber opening is accessible through the housing inlet 512) to a discharge configuration (when the chamber opening is accessible through a housing outlet (not shown)).

[00145] Any material that has been loaded into the chamber in the loading configuration is transported within the chamber towards the outlet of the housing 510. In the discharge configuration, the material exits the chamber aided by a flow of pressurized gas (e.g., compressed air) that goes from A to B and is delivered to a recess 516 of the rotary blow valve 500. The recess 516 is connected to an outlet cone 520, and the pressurized gas flow transports the material released from the rotor assembly through the outlet cone 520 to a pneumatic pipeline. When operating in this way, the rotary blow valve 500 supplies the material into a pneumatic pipeline.

[00146] The 500 rotary blow-off valve can be used to supply any bulk material in pneumatic conveying systems. For example, the 500 rotary blow-off valve can be used to supply residual material (such as household and / or industrial waste), granular products and the like, while maintaining an airtight seal.

[00147] Figure 6 shows a cross-section Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 39 / 136 34 / 40 vertical along the xy plane of rotary blow-off valve 500 of Figure 5, showing a set of rotors 100 with a chamber 106 in the loading configuration (upper chamber 106) and a chamber 106 in the discharge configuration (lower chamber 106).

[00148] As shown in Figure 5, the rotor assembly 100 comprises a drive rod 102, which defines a geometric drive axis 104 along its length. The rotor assembly has a plurality of chambers 106 (two can be clearly observed in this cross-section), which are operatively connected to the drive rod 102.

[00149] Each chamber 106 comprises a first end wall 112 and a second end wall 114 that are axially spaced along the geometric drive axis 104 and in this embodiment are connected by an intermediate portion 116. In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 116 is substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis.

[00150] Each chamber 106 also comprises a first side wall 108 (visible only in the upper chamber 106) and a second side wall 110 (visible only in the lower chamber 106), the first and second side walls 108 and 110 extending substantially laterally from the drive geometric axis 104, each side wall 108, 110 running substantially parallel to the drive geometric axis 104.

[00151] As discussed in relation to Figure 4, the first end wall 112 extends from the intermediate portion 116 at a first obtuse angle and the Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 40 / 136 35 / 40 second end wall 114 extends at a second obtuse angle relative to the intermediate portion 116. The first end wall 112 is longer than the second end wall 114. The first end wall defines at least about 25% of the total length of the offset chamber from about 130° to about 160° from the geometric drive axis. The first end wall 112 is offset from about 130° to about 160° from the geometric drive axis. The second end wall 114 is offset from about 130° to about 180° from the geometric drive axis. The first end wall 112 and the second end wall 114 are arranged at an angle of about 130° to about 160° from each other.

[00152] Each chamber 106 defines an opening 118 in or towards an external radial portion of chamber 106.

[00153] The upper chamber 106 is in the loading configuration and its opening 118 is accessible from the housing inlet 512. In use, material can be loaded into chamber 106 in the loading configuration via the housing inlet 512.

[00154] The lower chamber 106 is shown in the discharge configuration and is accessible via a housing outlet 514. Operationally connected to the housing outlet 514 is a recess 516, which is configured to receive any material from chamber 106 and pressurized airflow from a primary pressurized gas inlet 200 and a secondary pressurized gas inlet 300.

[00155] In this configuration, the secondary pressurized gas inlet 300 is located above the primary pressurized gas inlet 200, and both inlets provide a flow. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 41 / 136 36 / 40 of pressurized gas (e.g., compressed air flow) along the geometric axes of pressurized gas that are substantially parallel to the geometric axis of drive 104. In this embodiment, the primary pressurized gas inlet is a primary nozzle 200 and the secondary pressurized gas inlet is a secondary nozzle 300.

[00156] In use, the pressurized gas flow will be supplied from nozzles 200 and 300 inside the recess and towards the outlet cone 520. The primary geometric axis of pressurized gas 210 and the geometric axis of drive may be parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically aligned (or substantially vertical). The primary geometric axis of pressurized gas 210 and the secondary geometric axis of pressurized gas 310 may be parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically (or substantially vertical) offset.The primary geometric axis of pressurized gas 210 and the geometric axis of drive 104 may be parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically (or substantially vertical) aligned, and the secondary geometric axis of pressurized gas 310 may be parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically (or substantially vertical) offset from the primary geometric axis of pressurized gas 310 and the geometric axis of drive 104.

[00157] In the discharge configuration shown in the lower chamber 106, the first end wall 112 is arranged adjacent to the secondary nozzle 300. When the pressurized gas flow encounters the edge of the first end wall, it deviates from the secondary gas geometric axis 310 and follows the chamber surface of the first wall. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 42 / 136 37 / 40 end 112 to the second end wall 114, passing through the intermediate portion 116. Therefore, the chamber defines an asymmetric gas flow path within the chamber in the discharge configuration, such that the asymmetric flow path scrapes away any material that may be stuck to the chamber walls.

[00158] The primary nozzle 200 provides a higher volume flow than the secondary nozzle 300. The gas flow velocities of the primary and secondary nozzles 200, 300 are similar and are about 100 m / s and about 200 m / s. This arrangement generates a pressure differential in the chamber, which leads to the creation of a vortex inside the chamber.

[00159] Each chamber can be viewed as a trapezoidal-shaped basket. Therefore, each chamber 106 is asymmetrical when viewed in a cross-section perpendicular to the geometric drive axis 104. This stimulates a vortex flow within the chamber when the opening 118 of chamber 106 is in contact with a gas flow.

[00160] The shape of chamber 106 along the geometric drive axis 104 (i.e., from the first end wall 112, to the intermediate portion 116 and to the second end wall 114) distributes the gas flow pressure from the primary nozzles 200 and secondary nozzles 300 around the inner surface of the chamber and creates an asymmetrical flow path.

[00161] Without wanting to be limited by theory, the creation of the asymmetric gas flow path can be based on the Coanda effect.

[00162] Figure 7 shows a vertical cross-section along the yz plane of the rotary blow-off valve. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 43 / 136 38 / 40 Figures 5 and 6 show a rotor assembly 100 with ten chambers 106. In use, the rotor assembly 100 is configured to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. The direction of rotation of the rotor assembly does not affect its function. In this view, it can be observed that the end wall 112 of each of the chambers is inclined relative to the geometric drive axis defined along the drive rod 102. The side walls 108 and 110 create an air lock that allows the gas flow delivered by the nozzles 200 and 300 to be localized in the recessed area and only the chambers 106 that are in the discharge configuration (at the outlet of the housing 514 at the bottom of the rotary blow valve).

[00163] The secondary nozzle 300 is disposed above the primary nozzle 200 and vertically (or substantially vertically) diverted from it. As will be appreciated, the gas flow (e.g., compressed air) supplied by the primary nozzle 200 is located within the recess while the gas flow (e.g., compressed air) delivered by the secondary nozzle 300 is disposed above the recess area and within the chamber cavity 106 which becomes operatively connected with the housing outlet 514 in the discharge configuration.

[00164] The outer edge of end wall 112 is configured to be positioned directly above the gas flow from secondary nozzle 300 so that the Coanda effect can occur and at least part of the gas flow from nozzle 300 (and possibly also from nozzle 200) follows the surface of end wall 112, intermediate portion 116 and second end wall 114, thus creating an asymmetric flow path that creates a vortex within the Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 44 / 136 39 / 40 chamber 106 and scrape off any material adhering to the walls of chamber 106 (end walls 112, 114, portion 116 and side walls 108, 110).

[00165] Figure 8 shows a horizontal cross-section along the xz plane of the rotary blow valve 500 of Figures 5, 6 and 7, showing two consecutive chambers 106 of the rotor assembly 100. In Figure 8 it can be observed that the rotary assembly 100 has chambers that resemble asymmetrical trapezoidal-shaped baskets.

[00166] Advantageously, the rotary blow valve 500 according to the present invention comprises a self-cleaning rotor assembly 100 and therefore requires less maintenance than conventional rotary blow valves. This increases the productivity of pneumatic pipelines as it greatly reduces or eliminates the need to stop production at regular intervals to clean the rotor assembly. It also provides more efficient cleaning of the chambers 106 of the rotor assembly 100 compared to prior art rotary blow valves that utilize mechanical means in self-cleaning rotary assemblies.

[00167] The self-cleaning rotor assembly 100 of the rotary blow valve 500 is also more efficient than rotary blow valves of the prior art, as keeping the chambers 106 free of residue and / or debris allows each chamber 106 to maximize the volume of material that can be transferred with each revolution (i.e., the capacity of the chambers 106 is not reduced over time).

[00168] The 100 self-cleaning rotor assembly of the 500 rotary blow valve minimizes clogging or blockage problems in the rotary blow valve, which Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 45 / 136 40 / 40 also helps maintain the air seal inside the rotary valve. This is particularly advantageous in pneumatic conveying systems that process sticky or wet materials (e.g., bulk waste materials), as this type of material is extremely difficult to process and tends to adhere to the chambers of rotary assemblies, causing blockages in conventional blow-off rotary valves.

[00169] Although several exemplary embodiments have been disclosed, it should be understood that variations, modifications and combinations of the valve and methods disclosed herein may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 46 / 136

Claims

1 / 12 CLAIMS 1. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100) FOR A ROTARY BLOW VALVE, wherein the rotor assembly (100) is characterized by comprising: a drive rod (102), which defines a geometric drive axis (104) along its length; at least one chamber (106) operationally connected to the drive rod (102), wherein the at least one chamber (106) comprises a first end wall (112) and a second end wall (114), the first and second end walls (112, 114) axially spaced along the geometric drive axis (104);a first side wall (108) and a second side wall (110), the first and second side walls (108, 110) extending substantially laterally from the geometric drive axis (104), each side wall (108, 110) extending substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis (104), the chamber (106) defining an opening (118) in or towards a radial external portion of the chamber (106); wherein at least one chamber (106) is asymmetrical along a plane containing the geometric drive axis (104);wherein the first end wall (112) and the second end wall (114) together define a concave surface which, in use, is configured to be in contact with material to be loaded and discharged into the rotor assembly so that, in use, the chamber (106) stimulates a vortex flow when the chamber opening (118) is in contact with a gas flow.

2. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 1, characterized in that the first end wall (112) extends at a first angle (a) relative to the geometric drive axis and the second end wall (114) extends at a second angle (P) relative to the geometric drive axis (104).

3. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 2, characterized in that the first angle (a) and the second angle (P) are different or in that the first angle (a) and the second angle (P) are the same.

4. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the first angle (a) is an obtuse angle and / or the second angle (P) is an obtuse angle.

5. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the first angle (a) is from about 130° to about 170° and / or the second angle (P) is from about 130° to about 180°.

6. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the first angle (a) is greater than the second angle (P).

7. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first end wall (112) is larger than the second end wall (114), optionally, wherein the first end wall (112) is at least about 25% of the length of a chamber surface along the geometric drive axis measured from one end of the first end wall (112) to one end of the second end wall (114).

8. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that there is an intermediate portion (116) between the first (112) and the second (114) end walls, optionally, wherein the intermediate portion (116) is parallel to the geometric drive axis (104).

9. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 8, characterized in that the first end wall (112) extends at an obtuse angle (a) relative to the intermediate portion (116) and / or the second end wall (114) extends at an obtuse angle (P) relative to the intermediate portion (116).

10. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in use by the rotor assembly being configured to be disposed within a housing (510) of a rotary blow-off valve (500); and wherein the rotor assembly (100) is configured to rotate about the geometric drive axis (104) so ​​that the chamber (106) defines a loading configuration in which the chamber opening (118) is operationally connected to a housing inlet (512) and a discharge configuration in which the chamber opening (118) is operationally connected to a housing outlet (514); wherein the rotary chamber (100) is configured to receive material through the housing inlet (512) when the rotor assembly (100) is in the loading configuration and wherein the chamber (106) is configured to receive Petition 870220062240, of 14 / 07 / 2022, page.49 / 136 4 / 12 a gas flow (700, 800) in the discharge configuration so that the gas flow assists in removing material from the chamber (106).

11. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 10, characterized in that the chamber (106) defines an asymmetrical gas flow path (710) inside the chamber in the discharge configuration, so that the asymmetrical flow path scrapes the material from the walls (108, 110, 112, 114, 116) of the chamber (106).

12. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the first end wall (112) and the second end wall (114) define a concave surface which, in use, is configured to be in contact with material, wherein, when the rotor assembly (100) is in the discharge configuration, the first end wall (112) is configured to be located adjacent to a pressurized gas inlet (200, 300); wherein the pressurized gas inlet (200, 300) is configured to provide pressurized gas flow along a geometric gas axis (210, 310) which is substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis (104);and wherein when pressurized gas flow (700) comes into contact with the first end wall (112), the pressurized gas flow enters the chamber (700) and follows the chamber surface from the first end wall (112) to the second end wall (114), which deviates from the geometric axis of gas (310) and creates a vortex (720) inside the chamber (106) so that material is substantially removed from the chamber walls (106). Petition 870220062240, dated 14 / 07 / 2022, p. 50 / 136 5 / 12; 13. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 12, characterized in that, when the chamber (106) is in the discharge configuration, at least a portion of the first end wall (112) crosses or is near the pressurized gas flow (700).

14. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 12 or 13, characterized, when the chamber (106) is in the discharge configuration, by the pressurized gas inlet (200, 300) being disposed in or towards an outermost portion of the first end wall (112) so that the pressurized gas flow from the pressurized gas inlet (200, 300) follows the chamber surface from the first end wall (112) to the second end wall (114).

15. ROTOR ASSEMBLY (100), according to claim 14, characterized in that the pressurized gas inlet is a primary pressurized gas inlet (200) that is configured to supply pressurized gas to substantially remove material from the chamber walls and to transport the material in a pneumatic tubing.

16. ROTOR ASSEMBLY, according to claim 14, characterized in that the pressurized gas inlet is a secondary pressurized gas inlet (300) that is configured to supply pressurized gas to substantially remove material from the chamber walls (106) and there is a primary pressurized gas inlet (200) to transport the material in a pneumatic pipe; wherein the primary pressurized gas inlet (200) is configured to supply pressurized gas along a primary geometric gas axis (210) and the secondary pressurized gas inlet (300) is configured to supply pressurized gas along a secondary geometric gas axis (310); and where the primary (200) and secondary (300) geometric gas axes are substantially parallel to the drive geometric axis (104).

17. ROTOR ASSEMBLY, according to claim 16, characterized in that the primary geometric axis of pressurized gas (210) and the geometric axis of drive (104) are parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically (or substantially vertical) aligned and the secondary geometric axis of pressurized gas (310) is parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically (or substantially vertical) deviated from the primary geometric axis of pressurized gas (310) and the geometric axis of drive (104).

18. ROTARY BLOW VALVE (500), characterized by comprising: a housing (510) having an inlet (512) for receiving material and an outlet (514) for releasing the material; a rotor assembly (100) comprising: a drive rod (102), which defines a geometric drive axis (104) along its length; and at least one chamber (106) operationally connected to the drive rod (102), wherein the at least one chamber (106) comprises: a first end wall (112) and a second end wall (114), the first and second end walls (112, 114) axially spaced along the geometric drive axis (104);and a first side wall (108) and a second side wall (110), the first and second side walls (108, 110) extending substantially laterally from the geometric drive axis (104), each side wall (108, 110) extending substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis (104); and at least one chamber (106) that is asymmetrical along a plane containing the geometric drive axis (104) and that defines an opening (118) in or towards a radial outer portion of the at least one chamber (106); wherein the rotor assembly (100) is configured to rotate around the geometric drive axis (104) so ​​that the at least one chamber (106) defines: a loading configuration in which the opening (118) of the at least one chamber is operationally connected to the housing inlet (512);and a discharge configuration in which the opening (118) of at least one chamber (106) is operationally connected to the housing outlet (118); a pressurized gas inlet (200,300); and a recess (516) for transporting material released from the rotor assembly (100);the rotor assembly (100) is disposed within the housing (510) such that the first end wall (112) of at least one chamber (106) is disposed adjacent to the pressurized gas inlet (200, 300) when the chamber (106) is in the discharge configuration such that, in the discharge configuration, at least a portion of the pressurized gas flow is configured to enter Petition 870220062240, dated 14 / 07 / 2022, p. 53 / 136 8 / 12 contact with the first end wall (112) of at least one chamber (106), enter the chamber (106) and follow the chamber surface from the first end wall (112) to the second end wall (114), which deviates from the geometric axis of gas (210, 310) and which creates a vortex (720) inside at least one chamber (106) so that material is substantially removed from the chamber walls and supplied to the recess (516).; 19. ROTARY BLOW VALVE (500), according to claim 18, characterized in that the pressurized gas inlet is a primary pressurized gas inlet (200) that supplies pressurized gas along a primary geometric gas axis (210) to substantially remove material from the chamber walls (108, 110, 112, 114, 116) and to transport the material in a pneumatic pipe, optionally, and wherein, when at least one chamber (106) is in the discharge configuration, a portion of the pressurized gas (700) deviates from the primary geometric gas axis (210) and creates an asymmetrical gas flow path within at least one chamber (106), such that the asymmetrical flow path scrapes the material from the walls (108, 110, 112, 114, 116) of at least one chamber.

20. ROTARY BLOW VALVE (500), according to claim 18, characterized in that the rotary blow valve comprises two pressurized gas inlets: a primary pressurized gas inlet (200) defining a primary geometric axis of pressurized gas and a secondary pressurized gas inlet (300) defining a secondary geometric axis of pressurized gas, Petition 870220062240, dated 14 / 07 / 2022, page 54 / 136 9 / 12 optionally in which the primary pressurized gas inlet (200) is arranged below the secondary pressurized gas inlet (300).

21. ROTARY BLOW VALVE (500), according to claim 18 or 20, characterized in that the pressurized gas inlet is a secondary gas inlet (300) that supplies pressurized gas to substantially remove material from the chamber walls (108, 110, 112, 114, 116) and in that the rotary blow valve (500) further comprises a primary pressurized gas inlet (200) for conveying the material in a pneumatic tubing, wherein the primary pressurized gas inlet (200) is configured to supply pressurized gas along a primary geometric gas axis (310) and the secondary pressurized gas inlet (300) is configured to supply pressurized gas along a secondary geometric gas axis (310), and wherein the primary (200) and secondary (300) geometric gas axes are substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis. (104).

22. ROTARY BLOW VALVE, according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the primary geometric axis of pressurized gas (210) and the geometric axis of actuation (104) are parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically (or substantially vertical) aligned and the secondary geometric axis of pressurized gas (310) is parallel (or substantially parallel) and vertically (or substantially vertical) deviated from the primary geometric axis of pressurized gas (310) and the geometric axis of actuation (104).

23. METHOD OF TRANSPORTING MATERIAL IN A PIPELINE Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, page 55 / 136 10 / 12 PNEUMATICS, wherein the method is characterized by comprising: (i) providing a rotary blow-off valve (500) comprising: a) a housing (510) having an inlet (512) for receiving material and an outlet (514) for releasing the material; b) a rotor assembly (100) comprising: an actuating rod (102), which defines a geometric actuating axis (104) along its length; and at least one chamber (106) operationally connected to the drive rod (102), wherein the at least one chamber (106) comprises: a first end wall (112) and a second end wall (114), the first and second end walls (112, 114) axially spaced along the geometric drive axis (104);and a first side wall (108) and a second side wall (110), the first and second side walls (108, 110) extending substantially laterally from the geometric drive axis (104), each side wall (108, 110) extending substantially parallel to the geometric drive axis (104); and at least one chamber (106) that is asymmetrical along a plane containing the geometric drive axis (104) and that defines an opening (118) in or towards a radial external portion of at least one chamber (106);wherein the rotor assembly (100) is configured to rotate around the geometric drive axis (104) so ​​that at least one chamber (106) defines a loading configuration in which the opening (118) of at least one chamber is operationally connected to the housing inlet (512) and a discharge configuration in which the opening (118) of at least one chamber (106) is operationally connected to the housing outlet (118); (c) a pressurized gas inlet (200,300); and (d) a recess (516) to transport material released from the rotor assembly (100); (ii) connect the recess (516) of the rotary blow valve (500) to a pneumatic pipe;(iii) insert the material through the inlet (512) of the rotary blow valve so that the material is loaded into at least one chamber (106) of the rotor assembly (100) when the rotary blow valve (500) is in the loading configuration; (iv) rotate the rotor assembly (100) so that chamber (106) is operationally connected to the outlet (514) of the housing in the discharge configuration;(v) providing pressurized gas flow (700, 800) through pressurized gas inlet (200, 300), wherein, when at least one chamber (106) is in the discharge configuration, at least a portion of the pressurized gas flow contacts the first end wall (112) of at least one chamber (106), enters at least one chamber (106) and follows a surface of at least one chamber (106) from the first end wall (112) to the second end wall (114) so ​​that at least a portion of the gas flow deviates from the geometric gas axis and creates a vortex within at least one chamber (106), wherein the vortex substantially removes material from the walls (112, 114, 116) of at least one chamber and provides Petition 870220062240, of 14 / 07 / 2022, p. 57 / 136 12 / 12 the material for the recess (516);and (vi) transport the material from the recess (516) to the pneumatic piping with pressurized gas. Petition 870220062240, dated 07 / 14 / 2022, p. 58 / 136;