A press apparatus

Abstract

A stamping apparatus (100) is disclosed, comprising a pressure vessel (1) having an internal space (5) and a first end (3) and a second end (4). A loading chamber (2) is disposed at least partially within the internal space (5) between the first end (3) and the second end (4) and is configured to allow a pressure medium to flow through the loading chamber (2). At least one pressure medium flow path (6) has an inlet (7) and an outlet (8) in fluid communication with the internal space (5) and extends between the inlet and the outlet, and is configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet (7) to the outlet (8). At least one pressure medium flow generator (14) is configured to generate a pressure medium flow through the loading chamber (2) between the second end (3) and the first end (4) within the internal space (5), and further generate a pressure medium flow that flows into the inlet (7), through the at least one pressure medium flow path (6), and out of the outlet (8).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a stamping apparatus configured to process at least one article, the stamping apparatus comprising a pressure vessel having an internal space and configured to retain a pressure medium within the internal space during use of the stamping apparatus. The stamping apparatus is configured to process at least one article, for example, by means of isostatic stamping. Prior Technology

[0002] Articles pressure-treated by isostatic pressing, such as cold isostatic pressing (CIP), warm isostatic pressing (WIP), high pressure processing (HPP), or hot isostatic pressing (HIP), are typically positioned in a pressure vessel configured to hold the pressure medium therein. A processing cycle may include loading articles into the pressure vessel, closing and sealing the pressure vessel, processing articles in the pressure vessel, opening the pressure vessel, and unloading articles from the pressure vessel. Multiple articles can be processed simultaneously. A processing cycle may be divided into multiple parts or stages. After articles are loaded into the pressure vessel, the pressure vessel may be sealed, and then a pressure medium (e.g., a fluid, such as a gas; or a liquid, such as water or oil) is introduced into the pressure vessel, increasing the pressure in the pressure vessel to a certain pressure level; this may be referred to as the pressurization stage, whereby the articles can be subjected to increased pressure for a selected time period. A processing cycle may include a heating stage, where the pressure medium is heated, for example, to reach its desired or required temperature. The heating phase can occur simultaneously with, before, or after the pressurization phase. Exposing the article to increased pressure in the pressure vessel during the selected time period can be referred to as the stamping or holding phase of the processing cycle. After the stamping phase and before opening the pressure vessel to remove the article, the pressure in the pressure vessel is typically reduced to a sufficiently low level by withdrawing the pressure medium. This can be referred to as the pressure reduction or depressurization phase. The processing cycle may also include a cooling phase. However, depending on the type of isostatic press used (e.g., whether the isostatic press is configured for CIP, WIP, HPP, or HIP), a cooling phase may not be necessary. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Once the desired or required pressure and the desired or required temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure vessel have been reached, it may be desirable to maintain the pressure and temperature in the pressure vessel thus reached for an extended period of time. This extended period of time may be, for example, the duration of the stamping phase of the processing cycle or substantially the entire duration. The inventors have found that, in order to ensure that the temperature of the pressure medium is uniform throughout the pressure vessel, or at least uniform throughout the entire (or substantially the entire) space of the pressure vessel in which at least one article being processed is held, it may be beneficial to generate and / or maintain circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel (e.g., in a space within the pressure vessel) during the extended period of time. The space within the pressure vessel in which at least one article being processed is held may be referred to as the internal space and may be defined, for example, by a loading chamber, as discussed below. In the absence of pressure medium circulation within the pressure vessel during this extended period of time, thermal stratification may occur within the pressure vessel, causing the temperature of the pressure medium to differ between different parts of the pressure vessel. This could result in uneven temperature distribution within the at least one article being processed, or temperature differences between different articles or components being processed within the pressure vessel. This may be undesirable in many applications because it could lead to at least one item being processed not meeting the expected specifications of the processed item and / or different processing conditions for different items, which could result in different processing outcomes for different items. An example of such an application could be the processing of solid-state battery (SSB) components, i.e., where at least one item comprises, is composed of, or is based on one or more SSB components, such as all-solid-state battery (ASSB) components or semi-solid-state battery components. For example, at the end of the stamping phase of a processing cycle, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different portions of at least one processed item could help reduce or avoid internal stresses in the processed item during the subsequent cooling phase of the processing cycle and could provide an efficient way to obtain items or components with uniform material properties and density while minimizing internal voids and defects without geometric deformation of the item or component. For example, in SSB applications, the inventors have recognized that the relatively high uniformity of density and other material properties of SSB components can provide increased yield through the processing of large quantities of SSB components and improve the material properties of the processed products, including porosity (such as the porosity of anode, cathode, electrolyte, cathode electrolyte, and / or anode electrolyte (composite) materials) and (e.g., volumetric) energy density, as well as electrical and electrochemical properties and the capacity of the battery cell. By reducing the porosity of articles such as SSB components, the volume expansion of SSB components during SSB charging can be reduced, which in turn can increase the lifespan of the SSB.

[0004] In view of the above, the present invention is concerned with providing a stamping apparatus configured to process at least one article, the stamping apparatus including a pressure vessel having an internal space and configured to retain a pressure medium within the internal space during use of the stamping apparatus, the stamping apparatus being able to reduce or even avoid any non-uniformity in temperature distribution in the at least one article being processed.

[0005] To address this concern and at least one of other concerns, a stamping apparatus according to a separate claim is provided. Embodiments of the invention are defined by the appended claim.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, a stamping apparatus is provided. The stamping apparatus is configured to process at least one article. The stamping apparatus includes a pressure vessel having an internal space and a first end and a second end. The pressure vessel is configured to retain a pressure medium within the internal space during use of the stamping apparatus. The stamping apparatus includes a loading chamber at least partially disposed within the internal space between the first end and the second end. The loading chamber is configured to allow flow of a pressure medium through the loading chamber. The loading chamber is configured to retain at least one article therein during use of the stamping apparatus. The stamping apparatus includes at least one pressure medium flow path, which can be configured to guide the pressure medium. The at least one pressure medium flow path has an inlet located at one of the first end and the second end and an outlet located at the other of the first end and extends between the inlet and the outlet. The inlet and the outlet are in fluid communication with the internal space. The at least one pressure medium flow path is configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet. The stamping apparatus includes at least one pressure medium flow generator. At least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a pressure medium flow through a loading chamber between a second end and a first end within an internal space. The at least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a pressure medium flow that enters at an inlet of at least one pressure medium flow path, passes through at least one pressure medium flow path, and exits at an outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path. The stamping equipment includes a pressure medium flow distribution regulator. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed at the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator is configured to receive the pressure medium flow exiting the at least one pressure medium flow path via its outlet. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator is configured to distribute or disperse the received pressure medium flow such that the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber conforms to a selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber.

[0007] By configuring the pressure medium flow distributor regulator to distribute or disperse the received pressure medium flow, the velocity of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber can be reduced, and the static pressure of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber can be increased. Furthermore, the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber can achieve (e.g., substantially) a uniform unidirectional velocity profile. The velocity and temperature of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber become relatively uniform across a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the loading chamber. The pressure medium flow distributor regulator can be configured to mix different pressure medium flows and can be configured to continuously mix fluids.

[0008] The pressure vessel may include a pressure cylinder that at least partially defines an internal space. A loading chamber may be at least partially defined by the walls of a vessel (e.g., a cylindrical vessel), which may be referred to as a loading basket. A pressure medium flow distributor regulator may be configured to distribute the received pressure medium flow in at least a portion of the loading chamber, but possibly (and perhaps preferably) throughout the entire loading chamber. The pressure medium flow distributor regulator may be configured to distribute the received pressure medium flow in at least 60% or more of the volume of the loading chamber defined by the inner diameter of the vessel defining the loading chamber and the length of the loading chamber, and possibly in at least 85% or more of the volume of the loading chamber defined by the inner diameter of the vessel defining the loading chamber and the length of the loading chamber. Possibly, the pressure medium flow distributor regulator may be configured to distribute the received pressure medium flow in at least 60% or more of the volume of the internal space defined by the inner diameter of the pressure cylinder and the length of the pressure cylinder, and possibly in at least 85% or more of the volume of the internal space defined by the inner diameter of the pressure cylinder and the length of the pressure cylinder.

[0009] By providing at least one pressure medium flow path and at least one pressure medium flow generator, the generation and / or maintenance of pressure medium circulation within a pressure vessel, for example, over an extended period of time, can be facilitated or achieved. Specifically, pressure medium circulation can be generated and / or maintained, for example, within the internal space and loading chamber over an extended period of time. As indicated above, generating and / or maintaining this pressure medium circulation may help reduce or even avoid any non-uniformity in temperature distribution within at least one article during the use of the stamping equipment, for example, when the stamping equipment processes at least one article. In the absence of pressure medium circulation within the pressure vessel during the stamping phase of the processing cycle, the temperature of the pressure medium may vary between different parts of the pressure vessel, which could lead to non-uniform temperature distribution within at least one article, or to temperature differences between different articles or components processed within the pressure vessel, for example, during or at least at the end of the stamping phase. As mentioned above, this may be undesirable in many applications, such as, for example, the processing of SSB components. For example, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within at least one different part of the processed article at the end of the stamping phase of the processing cycle may help reduce or avoid internal stresses in the processed article during the subsequent cooling phase of the processing cycle, and may provide an effective way to obtain articles or parts with relatively high density and other material property uniformity, while minimizing internal voids and defects without geometric deformation of the article or part.

[0010] As indicated above, during the stamping phase or at least at the end of the stamping phase, i.e., during the period in which at least one article is subjected to increased pressure in the pressure vessel or at least at the end of that period, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of at least one processed article or between different articles or components processed within the pressure vessel may be particularly beneficial. The stamping phase may also be referred to as the holding phase. However, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of at least one processed article or between different articles or components processed within the pressure vessel may also be beneficial during another or other phase of the processing cycle, such as, for example, during the heating phase, where the pressure medium is heated, for example, to reach its desired or required temperature, thereby keeping the time required for the processing cycle relatively short.

[0011] Simulations conducted by the inventors have shown that, with the aid of one or more embodiments of the present invention, any temperature variation within at least one different part of the processed article or between different articles or components processed within a pressure vessel can be kept relatively small during any stage of the processing cycle, such as less than 8°C, possibly less than 4°C or even less than 2°C.

[0012] In SSB components (e.g., ASSB components), various solid elements are typically present, which can exhibit diverse or different chemical, physical, and / or mechanical properties. For this reason, and also due to the coupling nature between these solid elements, a relatively large number of internal interfaces may exist within the SSB component. In the case of processing SSB components such as ASSB components, reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of the SSB component may help achieve homogeneous densification at the internal interfaces of the SSB component and homogeneous densification of the solid electrolyte of the SSB component, and may also facilitate the initiation of desired chemical and electrochemical reactions (e.g., solid electrolyte mesophase formation) at the internal interfaces of the SSB component. Furthermore, interfaces within the SSB / ASSB (such as, for example, between the current collector anode and anode composite, between the cathode current collector and cathode composite, between the cathode and solid-state electrolyte (SSE), and between the anode and SSE) can be enhanced and stabilized.

[0013] As isostatic stamping is known, at least one item to be processed can be placed in a bag or pouch before processing. By reducing or avoiding temperature variations within different parts of at least one of the processed items, any warping or deformation of the bag or pouch can be mitigated or even eliminated.

[0014] Furthermore, by providing a pressure medium flow distribution regulator, the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber during this pressure medium circulation within the internal space and loading chamber can be customized or adjusted to conform to a selected pressure medium flow distribution through the loading chamber. The selected pressure medium flow distribution through the loading chamber can be referred to as the pressure medium flow profile in the selected loading chamber. Customizing or adjusting the pressure medium flow distribution through the loading chamber to conform to the selected pressure medium flow distribution can (further) facilitate ensuring that the properties of at least one article being processed meet the expected specifications.

[0015] In the context of this application, by making the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber conform to the selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber, it can be meant that the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber becomes similar to or substantially the same as the selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber, but the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber and the selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber may not be completely consistent (but they may be completely consistent).

[0016] It should be noted that the pressure medium flow distribution regulator, as described above (and as shown below, for example, with reference to the accompanying drawings), located at the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path, can be omitted. While the pressure medium flow distribution regulator can provide the benefits described above (and as shown below), it is not required to generate and / or maintain pressure medium circulation within the pressure vessel.

[0017] A stamping apparatus can be configured to process at least one article by means of isostatic stamping. The isostatic stamping process facilitates or allows all articles processed by the stamping apparatus to achieve the same material properties. For example, the stamping apparatus can be configured to process at least one article by means of CIP, WIP, HPP, or HIP.

[0018] Typically, CIP treatment can involve temperatures in the pressure vessel equal to or below (e.g., about) 50°C, such as in the pressure vessel between room temperature (e.g., 20°C) and (e.g., about) 50°C. Furthermore, CIP treatment can involve pressures in the pressure vessel between (e.g., about) 50 MPa and (e.g., about) 1600 MPa, such as between (e.g., about) 50 MPa and (e.g., about) 600 MPa, depending on the material of the article being treated and the temperature in the pressure vessel.

[0019] Typically, processing using WIP can involve temperatures within the pressure vessel ranging from (e.g., about) 50°C to (e.g., about) 400°C. Furthermore, processing using WIP can involve pressures within the pressure vessel ranging from (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 1600 MPa, such as between (e.g., about) 50 MPa and (e.g., about) 600 MPa, depending on the material of the article being processed and the temperature within the pressure vessel.

[0020] Typically, processing using HIP can involve temperatures in the pressure vessel equal to or higher than (e.g., about) 400°C, such as in the range between (e.g., about) 400°C and (e.g., about) 2500°C in the pressure vessel. Furthermore, processing using HIP can involve pressures in the pressure vessel ranging from (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 300 MPa, such as between (e.g., about) 50 MPa and (e.g., about) 210 MPa, depending on the material of the article being processed and the temperature in the pressure vessel.

[0021] Typically, processing using HPP can involve temperatures in the pressure vessel equal to or higher than (e.g., about) 0°C, such as in the range between (e.g., about) 0°C and (e.g., about) 100°C, typically in the range between (e.g., about) 4°C and (e.g., about) 40°C. Furthermore, processing using HPP can involve pressures in the pressure vessel ranging from (e.g., about) 100 MPa to (e.g., about) 800 MPa, typically in the range between (e.g., about) 400 MPa and (e.g., about) 600 MPa, depending on the material of the article being processed and the temperature in the pressure vessel.

[0022] However, depending on the application, pressures up to 6000 bar (600 MPa) or even higher may be desired or even required in the pressure vessel. To increase the pressure in the pressure vessel during the pressurization phase, a pump, such as a hydraulic pump, can be used to introduce a pressure medium into the pressure vessel to increase the pressure. However, such a pump may not be able to generate pressures up to 6000 bar in the pressure vessel and can actually only be used to generate lower (much lower) pressures in the pressure vessel. This could be because, for example, the construction materials used in such a pump may not be able to withstand the desired pressure level, at which the mechanical stress on the pump components (such as valves and piping) may be harmfully high, causing these components to fail after a relatively short period of pump use. Therefore, such pumps are typically used to generate pressure in the pressure vessel to a level that the pump can safely withstand, followed by further pressurization using other equipment capable of withstanding the desired pressure level. This other equipment may consist of what is known as a pressure booster. Increasing the pressure in a pressure vessel by means of a pressure enhancer unit that supplies a pressure medium into the pressure vessel can be done after pressurizing the pressure vessel with a pump (such as a hydraulic pump) to introduce the pressure medium into the pressure vessel. For example, to achieve a certain pressure level in the pressure vessel, such as about 20 bar, the pressure vessel can first be pressurized with a pump (such as a hydraulic pump) to introduce the pressure medium into the pressure vessel. Subsequently, the pressure in the pressure vessel is increased by means of a pressure enhancer unit that supplies a pressure medium into the pressure vessel, and the pressure increase phase can be performed so that the pressure in the pressure vessel reaches a higher (much higher) pressure level, such as up to 6000 bar or even higher.

[0023] Pressure vessels can, for example, have a cylindrical shape. However, while a cylindrical shape may be preferred, pressure vessels can have other shapes besides cylindrical.

[0024] In use, a pressure vessel may be configured, for example, such that the longitudinal axis of the pressure vessel is oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a vertical line (e.g., a plumb line), or such that the longitudinal axis of the pressure vessel is oriented parallel or substantially parallel to a vertical line (e.g., a plumb line).

[0025] The pressure medium may include, for example, fluids, such as liquids and / or gases. Fluids may include, for example, water and / or oil and / or another suitable liquid. Oil may include, for example, mineral oil. Gases may include, for example, inert gases, such as argon.

[0026] "Use of stamping equipment" can, in principle, refer to any use of stamping equipment in connection with the processing of at least one article. For example, a pressure vessel can be configured to retain a pressure medium within its internal space, for example, during a pressurization phase, heating phase, stamping phase, and / or another phase of a processing cycle as described above. Therefore, "use of stamping equipment" can refer to one or more of, for example, pressurization, heating, stamping, or cooling, or any combination of these phases and any other possible phase of the processing cycle.

[0027] As described, after the article is loaded into the pressure vessel, the pressure vessel can be sealed. This can be followed by a pressurization phase and / or a heating phase. The pressurization and heating phases can be performed simultaneously. The pressurization phase may involve introducing a pressure medium into the (sealed) pressure vessel to obtain a selected pressure within the pressure vessel. The heating phase may involve heating the pressure medium, for example, to reach its desired or required temperature. Possibly, before introducing the pressure medium into the pressure vessel, the pressure medium can be preheated to a temperature that takes into account the adiabatic heating that occurs due to the pressurization of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel. This adiabatic heating can be, for example, (about) 2-9°C / 100 MPa, depending on the composition of the medium. By preheating the pressure medium before introducing it into the pressure vessel and then pressurizing it within the pressure vessel, the temperature of the pressure medium can reach, for example, within 2°C-5°C of the desired or required temperature. Therefore, the preheated pressure medium can be introduced into the pressure vessel. Subsequently, the temperature of the pressure medium can be adjusted to a desired or required temperature (or nearly desired or required temperature) by regulating the pressure in the pressure vessel, so that the desired or required temperature is reached (or nearly reached) by means of adiabatic heating of the pressure medium. Therefore, by means of such adiabatic heating, the temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure vessel can be increased, for example, by 2°C-5°C, to reach (or nearly reach) the desired or required temperature. Preheating of the pressure medium can be performed, for example, using one or more heaters (e.g., one or more electric heaters) positioned relative to a pressure medium source or reservoir connected to or potentially connected to the pressure vessel, so that the pressure medium can be heated while it is in the pressure medium source or reservoir.

[0028] As described, the pressure medium may include, for example, water. Water is generally considered incompressible. However, at very high pressures, water is compressible and generates heat during compression. In principle, below 6000 bar, the temperature of water increases by approximately 4°C for every 1000 bar. The interaction between the amount of (solid) load or article to be processed and the pressure medium (e.g., water) may affect how a stamping apparatus configured to process at least one article by means of, for example, WIP (work-in-place) should be operated or how the operation should be controlled. The compressibility of the solid load / article is negligible compared to the pressure medium; therefore, the temperature increase of the solid load / article due to pressure increase is different from the temperature increase of the pressure medium due to pressure increase. When selecting how to control the operation of a stamping apparatus configured to process at least one article by means of, for example, WIP (e.g., when selecting control parameters for this operation), the thermal properties of the load / article should be taken into account. For example, the rate of pressure increase and the preheating temperature to be used (if any) should be considered. Because, based on the above considerations, the temperature increase of the pressure medium during a given time period within a pressure ramp sequence may differ from the temperature increase of the load / article during that same time period within the pressure ramp sequence, this should be taken into account when determining which pressure ramp rate to use. Rapid pressure ramps may not be required if the temperature of the load / article remains at a constant level below the target "hold" temperature for a period of time during the time required to reach the target "hold" pressure. This means that in some cases, a slower pressure ramp may be preferred to achieve the target "hold" temperature and target "hold" pressure simultaneously or substantially simultaneously. Furthermore, operational controls may need to take into account any nominal maximum temperature and / or nominal maximum pressure that, for safety reasons or depending on the desired material properties of the article being treated, cannot be exceeded.

[0029] By configuring at least one pressure medium flow generator to generate a pressure medium flow through a loading chamber between a second end and a first end within an internal space, a pressure medium flow from the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path to or at least to the inlet of at least one pressure medium flow path can be generated within the internal space.

[0030] Typically, at least one pressure medium flow path may be different from the internal space and loading chamber. Typically, at least one pressure medium flow path can be considered as part of the stamping equipment, separate from the internal space and / or loading chamber, and may ensure that the pressure medium being conveyed in at least one pressure medium flow path does not mix with the pressure medium in the internal space and / or loading chamber.

[0031] At least one pressure medium guiding conduit can be configured to guide the pressure medium out of the internal space and into the inlet, guide the pressure medium introduced into the inlet from the inlet to the outlet, and guide the pressure medium out of the outlet and back into the internal space.

[0032] At least one pressure medium flow path may include, for example, at least one of one or more conduits, one or more channels, one or more pipes, one or more tubes, etc., which may be configured to guide the pressure medium through it.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, at least one pressure medium flow path may be formed, for example, by one or more passages between two or more different components, parts, or sections of the stamping equipment. For example, the internal space may be defined by the interior of a loading chamber, which may be defined by the walls of a container (e.g., a cylindrical container) that may be referred to as a loading basket. The container may be at least partially enclosed by an enclosure (e.g., a gasket or sheath), which may, for example, be cylindrical. In this case, at least one pressure medium flow path may include, or be formed by, a gap between the outer surface of the container wall and the inner surface of the enclosure.

[0034] At least one pressure medium flow path may, for example, be at least partially disposed within the interior space. For instance, at least one pressure medium flow path may include or constitute one or more conduits, channels, pipes, tubes, etc., which may be at least partially disposed within the loading chamber. In this case, the interior space may be at least partially defined by the space within the loading chamber excluding the space defined by the at least one pressure medium flow path disposed within the loading chamber, and possibly the space outside the loading chamber. According to a specific example, at least one pressure medium flow path may include a pipe, pipe, or conduit extending through and along the loading chamber. For example, in the case where the loading chamber has a cylindrical geometry, at least one pressure medium flow path may include a pipe, pipe, or conduit extending axially through the loading chamber.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, at least one pressure medium flow path may be at least partially located within one or more portions of the pressure vessel, distinct from the internal space. An example of this configuration has been described above, wherein at least one pressure medium flow path may comprise, or be constituted therebetween, a space or gap between an outer surface of a vessel wall (e.g., an outer encapsulating surface of the vessel) and an inner surface of an enclosure closing the vessel, the interior of which may define an internal space or loading chamber. The space or gap defining the pressure medium flow path may be replaced by a semi-solid liner or sheath, which may include one or more conduits, channels, passages, etc., extending along the length of the vessel within the liner or sheath. Alternatively, a portion of the space or gap defining the pressure medium flow path may accommodate this liner or sheath. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure medium flow path may be realized by means of one or more conduits, channels, channels, passages, etc., located within the vessel defining the loading chamber and extending along the length of the vessel. For example, the container defining the loading chamber can be configured as a cylinder, or at least configured as a cylindrical shape, wherein one or more conduits, channels, pipes, passages, etc. are disposed within the cylindrical wall of the container and can extend along at least a portion of its length.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, at least one pressure medium flow path may be located at least partially outside the pressure vessel. At least one pressure medium flow path may exit the pressure vessel at one of the first and second ends, and enter the pressure vessel at the other of the first and second ends.

[0037] At least one pressure medium flow path may include multiple pressure medium flow paths, wherein each of the multiple pressure medium flow paths may be configured according to one of the different configurations of the at least one pressure medium flow path described herein. For example, each of the multiple pressure medium flow paths may be at least partially disposed within an internal space, at least partially disposed outside a pressure vessel, or at least partially disposed within a pressure vessel in one or more portions different from the internal space. Therefore, the stamping equipment may include multiple pressure medium flow paths in any combination of the configurations of the at least one pressure medium flow path described herein.

[0038] At least one pressure medium flow generator may include, for example, at least one of a fan, at least one ejector, at least one pump, or at least one pressure enhancer.

[0039] As described, a pressure vessel has (e.g., at least) a first end and a second end. In the context of this application, an end of a pressure vessel can generally refer to a portion of a region within the pressure vessel located at the boundary between the interior and exterior of the pressure vessel. The first end and the second end are not necessarily opposite ends, but they can be opposite ends. The first end and the second end can be corresponding portions of different regions within the pressure vessel located at the boundary between the interior and exterior of the pressure vessel. According to one example, the pressure vessel may include one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure, wherein each end closure can be selectively opened and closed. The first end and the second end can be located at different end closures, but this is not required, and the first end and the second end can be located at the same end closure.

[0040] A pressure medium flow distribution regulator disposed at the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path may, for example, include one or more diffusers, such as one or more diffusers of a type known in the art. In one or more embodiments of the invention, the pressure medium flow distribution regulator disposed at the outlet of at least one pressure medium flow path may be referred to as a dispersion diffuser or a dispersion outlet diffuser. The diffuser may, for example, include a structure made of a porous material.

[0041] Pressure vessels may include enclosed structures. These enclosed structures may be configured to seal off at least the internal space.

[0042] In the context of this application, by configuring the enclosed structure to seal at least the internal space, it can be meant that by providing the enclosed structure, there may be no or substantially no leakage of pressure medium from the internal space (e.g., only a very small amount of leakage over a period of time), unless the pressure medium is intentionally directed out of the internal space via the enclosed structure or the pressure vessel's exit / outlet.

[0043] A pressure vessel may include a pressure cylinder. A pressure vessel may include one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure, wherein each end closure may be configured to selectively open and close. A pressure vessel may include a pressure cylinder and one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure. Possibly, the end closures of the pressure vessel may be formed as a portion of the pressure cylinder. Each or either of the first end closure and / or the second end closure may, for example, include or be formed as a cover. The second end closure may be opposite to the first end closure. For example, the first end closure and the second end closure may be located at opposite ends of the pressure vessel (or pressure cylinder). Thus, the first end closure may be located at a first end of the pressure vessel, and the second end closure may be located at a second end of the pressure vessel, or the second end closure may be located at a first end of the pressure vessel, and the first end closure may be located at a second end of the pressure vessel. At least the pressure cylinder may be included in or constitute a closed structure. For example, the pressure cylinder, the first end closure, and the second end closure may be included in or constitute a closed structure.

[0044] On the outer surface of the outer wall of a pressure cylinder or pressure vessel, channels, conduits, and / or pipes may be provided to provide a flow of coolant to cool the outer wall of the pressure cylinder or pressure vessel. Prestressing devices may be provided on the outer surface of the outer wall of the pressure cylinder or pressure vessel, and possibly on any channels, conduits, and / or pipes for coolant. The prestressing devices may be provided, for example, in the form of a wire (e.g., made of steel), which may be wound multiple times around the outer surface of the outer wall of the pressure cylinder or pressure vessel and possibly on any channels, conduits, and / or pipes for coolant that may be provided thereon to form one or more bands, and preferably multiple layers. The prestressing devices may be configured to apply radial compressive force to the pressure cylinder or pressure vessel. According to one example, the pressure vessel may be a so-called integral type, in which case the prestressing devices described above may not be used.

[0045] Furthermore, the stamping equipment may include an axial prestressing device for accommodating axial forces that may be applied to one or more end closures of the pressure vessel. This axial prestressing device may, for example, include a frame configured to hold one or more end closures of the pressure vessel. The frame may extend from an end closure at one end of the pressure vessel to an end closure at the other end of the pressure vessel from outside the pressure vessel.

[0046] Typically, it may be desirable for the loading chamber to be as large as possible, or at least relatively large, to enable the use of stamping equipment to process a relatively large number of items simultaneously. To facilitate setting the loading chamber relatively large, or indeed as large as possible, the internal space should be relatively large, or indeed as large as possible. This article describes different ways this can be achieved.

[0047] For example, at least one of a pressure medium flow generator or a pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be built into or integrated into a closed structure. Additionally or alternatively, the closed structure may include at least one cavity fluidly communicative to an internal space, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow generators or pressure medium flow distribution regulators may be disposed within the at least one cavity. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the pressure medium flow generators or pressure medium flow distribution regulators may be embedded in an inner surface of the closed structure, which may face the internal space (e.g., the surface normal of the inner surface may point inward toward the internal space).

[0048] As described, the pressure vessel may include one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure. For example, at least one pressure medium flow generator may be built into or integrated into the first end closure and / or the second end closure. A pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be built into or integrated into the first end closure and / or the second end closure. The first end closure and / or the second end closure may include at least one cavity in fluid communication with an internal space, wherein at least one pressure medium flow generator may be disposed in at least one cavity. The first end closure and / or the second end closure may include at least one cavity in fluid communication with an internal space, wherein a pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed in at least one cavity. Additionally or alternatively, at least one pressure medium flow generator may be embedded in an inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space. Additionally or alternatively, a pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be embedded in an inner surface of the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space. By making the inner surface face the inner space, it can be meant that the surface normal of the inner surface can point inward toward the inner space.

[0049] With the configurations described in the first two paragraphs, space may be unnecessary or almost unnecessary within the interior space to accommodate at least one pressure medium flow generator or pressure medium flow distribution regulator, allowing a relatively large proportion of the interior space volume, or even the entire interior space volume, to be used to accommodate the loading chamber.

[0050] The pressure medium flow distribution regulator mentioned above can be considered as a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator. The stamping equipment may include an additional second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, which can be configured to receive the flowing pressure medium leaving the loading chamber and converge the pressure medium flow toward the inlet of at least one pressure medium flow path, such that the converged pressure medium flow enters at least one pressure medium flow path at its inlet.

[0051] A second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, which may be disposed at the inlet of at least one pressure medium flow path, may include, for example, one or more diffusers, such as one or more diffusers of a type known in the art. In one or more embodiments of the invention, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be referred to as a converging diffuser, a converging inlet diffuser, a converging nozzle, or a converging inlet nozzle.

[0052] As described, the pressure vessel may include a closed structure configured to hermetically enclose at least an internal space. At least one of a pressure medium flow generator, a second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be built into or integrated into the closed structure. Alternatively or additionally, the closed structure may include at least one cavity in fluid communication with the internal space, wherein at least one of the pressure medium flow generator, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed in at least one cavity. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the pressure medium flow generator, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be embedded in an inner surface of the closed structure, the inner surface facing the internal space. By making the inner surface face the internal space, it can be meant that the surface normal of the inner surface can point inward toward the internal space.

[0053] As described, the pressure vessel may include one or more end closures, such as a first end closure and a second end closure. For example, at least one pressure medium flow generator may be built into or integrated into the first end closure and / or the second end closure. A first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be built into or integrated into one of the first end closure and the second end closure, and a second pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be built into or integrated into the other of the first end closure and the second end closure. Alternatively or additionally, the first end closure and / or the second end closure may include at least one cavity in fluid communication with an internal space, wherein at least one pressure medium flow generator may be disposed in at least one cavity. One of the first end closure and the second end closure may include at least one cavity in fluid communication with an internal space, wherein the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed in at least one cavity, and the other of the first end closure and the second end closure may include at least one cavity in fluid communication with an internal space, wherein the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be disposed in at least one cavity. Alternatively or additionally, at least one pressure medium flow generator pressure medium can be embedded in the inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space. Alternatively or additionally, a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator can be embedded in the inner surface of one of the first end closure and the second end closure, wherein the inner surface faces the internal space, and a second pressure medium flow distribution regulator can be embedded in the inner surface of the other of the first end closure and the second end closure, wherein the inner surface faces the internal space. By making the inner surface face the internal space, it can be meant that the surface normal of the inner surface can point inward toward the internal space.

[0054] With the configurations described in the first two paragraphs, space may be unnecessary or almost unnecessary within the interior space to accommodate at least one pressure medium flow generator or pressure medium flow distribution regulator, allowing a relatively large proportion of the interior space volume, or even the entire interior space volume, to be used to accommodate the loading chamber.

[0055] The stamping equipment may include a heating unit that can be configured to heat a pressure medium guided in at least one pressure medium flow path from inlet to outlet.

[0056] The stamping equipment may include a cooling unit that can be configured to cool the pressure medium guided in at least one pressure medium flow path from inlet to outlet.

[0057] The heating unit and the cooling unit can be configured to heat and cool the pressure medium guided in at least one pressure medium flow path from inlet to outlet at different locations along at least one pressure medium flow path.

[0058] The heating unit and / or cooling unit may include, for example, at least one heat exchanger unit.

[0059] As described, at least one pressure medium flow path may be at least partially located outside the pressure vessel. Heating and / or cooling units may be configured to heat and cool the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path from inlet to outlet, respectively, within a portion of the at least one pressure medium flow path located outside the pressure vessel.

[0060] For example, where at least one pressure medium flow path is at least partially located outside the pressure vessel, a cooling unit may be located downstream of the inlet of the at least one pressure medium flow path and configured to cool the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path. At least one of at least one pressure medium flow generators may be located downstream of the cooling unit and configured to receive the pressure medium flow already cooled by the cooling unit and generate a pressure medium flow toward the outlet in the at least one pressure medium flow path. The cooling unit may be configured to cool the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators does not exceed a selected temperature. A heating unit may be located downstream of the at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators and upstream of the outlet, and may be configured to heat the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure medium flow exiting the outlet exceeds or meets a selected temperature.

[0061] This configuration may be particularly advantageous when the at least one pressure medium flow generator located downstream of the cooling unit is of a type or configuration that may not function properly or operate, or even malfunction, when the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator is relatively high. During the use of the stamping equipment, the temperature of the pressure medium may become relatively high. As described, the stamping equipment may be configured to process at least one article by means of isostatic stamping, in which case the temperature of the pressure medium may become relatively high. If the temperature of the pressure medium guided into at least one pressure medium flow path becomes too high for the at least one pressure medium flow generator located downstream of the cooling unit to function properly or operate, the cooling unit may cool the pressure medium guided in at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the at least one pressure medium flow generator does not exceed a certain temperature above which the at least one pressure medium flow generator located downstream of the cooling unit may not function properly or operate, or even malfunction. Then, the heating unit may heat the pressure medium guided in at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure medium flow flowing out of the outlet exceeds or meets a selected temperature, which may be the temperature of the pressure medium when it is guided into at least one pressure medium flow path via its inlet.

[0062] The aforementioned pressure medium flow generator, located downstream of the cooling unit, may include, for example, at least one pressure booster.

[0063] Further objects and advantages of the invention will be described below with reference to exemplary embodiments. Note that the invention relates to all possible combinations of the features listed in the claims. Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent when examining the appended claims and the description herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the invention can be combined to produce embodiments other than those described herein. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0064] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Each of Figures 2 and 4 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping equipment shown in Figure 1, located at one end of the pressure vessel of the stamping equipment. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping equipment shown in Figure 1, located at the other end of the pressure vessel of the stamping equipment. Figure 5 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Each of Figures 6 and 7 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping equipment shown in Figure 5, located at one end of the pressure vessel of the stamping equipment. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a stamping apparatus similar to the stamping apparatus shown in Figure 5, located at one end of the pressure vessel of the stamping apparatus. Figure 9 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Each of Figures 10 and 11 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping equipment shown in Figure 9, located at one end of the pressure vessel of the stamping equipment. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping equipment shown in Figure 9, located at the other end of the pressure vessel of the stamping equipment. Figure 13 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Each of Figures 14 and 15 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping equipment shown in Figure 13, located at one end of the pressure vessel of the stamping equipment. Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping equipment shown in Figure 13, located at the other end of the pressure vessel of the stamping equipment. Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of a stamping apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the pressure vessel of a stamping apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Each of Figures 20 and 21 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping equipment shown in Figure 19, located at one end of the pressure vessel of the stamping equipment. The accompanying drawings are schematic and not necessarily drawn to scale, and generally only show the parts necessary to illustrate embodiments of the invention, wherein other parts may be omitted or are merely illustrated. Implementation

[0065] The invention will now be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are illustrated. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example, and this disclosure will thus convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0066] Figure 1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The stamping apparatus 100 is configured to process at least one article (not shown in Figure 1). The stamping apparatus 100 may be configured to process at least one article by means of isostatic stamping. For example, the stamping apparatus 100 may be configured to process at least one article by means of CIP, WIP or HIP.

[0067] The stamping apparatus 100 includes a pressure vessel 1 having an internal space 5. According to an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1, the pressure vessel 1 has a cylindrical shape. While a cylindrical shape may be preferred, the pressure vessel 1 can have another shape besides a cylindrical shape. The pressure vessel 1 is configured to hold a pressure medium within the internal space 5 during use of the stamping apparatus 100. The pressure medium can include, for example, a fluid, such as a liquid or a gas. Fluids can include, for example, water and / or oil, such as mineral oil. Gases can include, for example, an inert gas, such as argon.

[0068] Further according to the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG1, the pressure vessel 1 includes a pressure cylinder 10 (which may simply be referred to as a cylinder), a first end closure 11, and a second end closure 12. Although not explicitly shown in FIG1, one or both of the first end closure 11 and the second end closure 12 may be configured to be openable and closed, for example using opening and closing devices such as those known in the art. The second end closure 12 is opposite to the first end closure 11. The pressure vessel 1 has a first end 3 and a second end 4. Typically, the first end closure 11 may be located at one of the first end 3 and the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1, and the second end closure 12 may be located at the other of the first end 3 and the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1. As shown in FIG1, therefore according to the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the first end closure 11 is located at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1, and the second end closure 12 is located at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1.

[0069] The stamping equipment 100 includes a loading chamber 2 disposed within an internal space 5 between a first end 3 and a second end 4. The loading chamber 2 is configured to allow a pressure medium to flow through it. The loading chamber 2 is configured to hold at least one article therein during use of the stamping equipment 100.

[0070] According to an embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 1, the loading chamber 2 is defined by the walls of a cylindrical container, which may be referred to as a loading basket without loss of generality, and the internal space 5 may be at least partially defined by the loading chamber 2, such as by the interior of the (e.g., cylindrical) container that defines the loading chamber 2. At least the encapsulating surface of the container may be impermeable to the pressure medium. At one or more ends of the container (e.g., at the bottom and / or top ends of the container), one or more through-holes may be provided to allow the pressure medium to flow through the loading chamber 2. In principle, the container or loading basket can be made of any material capable of withstanding the pressure exerted on at least one article when it is to be processed. The container or loading basket may be made, for example, of steel or another iron-based alloy. It may be preferred that the container or loading basket be made of a material with relatively low thermal conductivity, such as, for example, polymers or plastics. However, other materials with relatively low thermal conductivity are also considered.

[0071] It should be understood that although the cylindrical geometry of the pressure vessel 1, internal space 5 and loading chamber 2 shown in Figure 1 may be a preferred geometry or one of the preferred geometries, this geometry of the pressure vessel 1, internal space 5 and loading chamber 2 is not necessary, and other or other types of geometries of such components are also possible.

[0072] Typically, the stamping apparatus 100 includes at least one pressure medium flow path having an inlet at one of a first end 3 and a second end 4 and an outlet at the other of the first end 3 and the second end 4, and extending between the inlet and the outlet, the inlet and the outlet being in fluid communication with an internal space 5, and wherein at least one pressure medium flow path is configured to guide pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet. According to an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG1, the stamping apparatus 100 includes a pressure medium flow path 6 having an inlet 7 at the first end 3 and an outlet 8 at the second end 4, and extending between the inlet and the outlet, wherein the inlet 7 and the outlet 8 are in fluid communication with an internal space, and wherein the pressure medium flow path 6 is configured to guide pressure medium from the inlet 7 to the outlet 8.

[0073] According to the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG1, the pressure medium flow path 6 is at least partially disposed within the internal space 5 and includes a pipe, conduit, or conduit extending axially through the loading chamber 2. Therefore, according to the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the internal space 5 is at least partially defined by the space within the loading chamber 2 outside the pipe, conduit, or conduit defining the pressure medium flow path 6.

[0074] It should be understood that the components of the stamping equipment 100 can be relatively large. Components of the stamping equipment 100, such as any container or loading basket that may define the loading chamber 2, and / or any pipe, conduit, or conduit that may define the flow path 6 of the pressure medium, may be constructed of multiple parts that may be interconnected in any suitable manner, for example, depending on the materials of these parts, such as by means of butt joints or by means of welding, brazing, etc.

[0075] The stamping equipment 100 includes a pressure medium flow generator (not shown in FIG. 1; see FIG. 2) configured to generate a pressure medium flow within the internal space 5, passing through the loading chamber 2 between the second end 4 and the first end 3. At least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a pressure medium flow that flows into an inlet 7 of a pressure medium flow path 6, through at least one pressure medium flow path 6, and out of an outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6.

[0076] By providing a pressure medium flow path 6 and at least one pressure medium flow generator, it is convenient or possible to generate and / or maintain pressure medium circulation within the pressure vessel 1, for example, over an extended period of time. Specifically, pressure medium circulation can be generated and / or maintained, for example, within the internal space 5 and the loading chamber 2 over an extended period of time. During pressure medium circulation within the internal space 5, the pressure medium flow can pass through only a portion of the internal space 5 or through the entire or substantially the entire internal space 5. For example, the pressure medium flow can pass through the loading chamber 2, which, as described, can be defined by the wall of a cylindrical vessel; or through a space outside the vessel that can extend along the encapsulating surface of the vessel. Thus, the vessel does not need to occupy the entire internal space 5, but a gap can exist, for example, between the inner surface of the pressure vessel 1 and the outer surface of the loading chamber 2 (e.g., the encapsulating surface of the aforementioned vessel). This gap is shown in more detail in Figures 3 and 4 and Figures 6 to 8 (see element 30 in these figures) and is further described below.

[0077] The stamping equipment 100 includes a pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 disposed at the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6. In Figure 1, at least one pressure medium flow generator is located downstream of the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 is configured to receive the pressure medium flow exiting the pressure medium flow path 6 via its outlet 8. The pressure medium flow distributor regulator 9 is configured to distribute the received pressure medium flow such that the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2 conforms to a selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2.

[0078] By means of a pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9, the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2 during this pressure medium circulation within the internal space 5 and the loading chamber 2 can be customized or adjusted to conform to a selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2. Therefore, the selected pressure medium flow profile in the loading chamber 2 can be achieved by means of the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 may, for example, include a diffuser according to an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1.

[0079] In addition to (or possibly in place of) the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9, which may be referred to as the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9, the stamping apparatus 100 may include one or more additional pressure medium flow distribution regulators. According to an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1, the stamping apparatus 100 may include an additional second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13. The second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 may be configured to receive the flowing pressure medium exiting the loading chamber 2 and converge the pressure medium flow toward the inlet 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6, such that the converged pressure medium flow enters the pressure medium flow path 6 at its inlet 7. The second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 may, for example, include a diffuser according to an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1.

[0080] The arrows in Figure 1, representing the internal space 5 / loading chamber 2 and the pressure medium flow path 6, indicate exemplary flow paths of the pressure medium during use of the stamping apparatus 100. Figure 1 can illustrate the stamping apparatus 100 during a stamping phase of a processing cycle, wherein at least one article is subjected to increased pressure in the pressure vessel 1 for a certain (e.g., selected) time period (e.g., at or approximately at a certain pressure in the pressure vessel 1, and possibly at or approximately at a certain temperature in the pressure vessel 1). As shown in Figure 1, the pressure medium flows through the loading chamber 2 in a direction from the second end 4 to the first end 3. As further shown in Figure 1, the pressure medium flow in the pressure medium flow path 6 is directed in the opposite direction. Also as shown in Figure 1 (and at least Figures 3 and 4 and 6 to 8), the pressure medium can also flow along the outer encapsulation surface of the container defining the loading chamber 2 in a direction from the second end 4 to the first end 3. In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the loading chamber 2 does not occupy the entire internal space 5, but the internal space 5 includes a gap 30 (see Figures 3 and 4 and 6 to 8) between the outer encapsulation surface of the container defining the loading chamber 2 and the inner surface of the pressure cylinder 10, through which the pressure medium can flow.

[0081] It should be understood that the configuration of the pressure medium flow path 6, including a pipe, conduit, or tubing, as shown in FIG1 is exemplary, and other configurations are also possible, such as those described below with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12. Furthermore, although embodiments of the invention are described herein as including one pressure medium flow path, it should be understood that more than one pressure medium flow path may be provided, such as being arranged parallel to each other. In the case of providing more than one pressure medium flow path, each of the pressure medium flow paths can provide the same function of delivering the pressure medium therein between the first end 3 and the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1, so as to generate and / or maintain the circulation of the pressure medium within the pressure vessel 1, such as in the internal space 5 and the loading chamber 2, for example, over an extended period of time.

[0082] It should be understood that the stamping equipment 100 may include one or more additional components not shown in the figures. For example, such additional components may include one or more heaters, which may be disposed within the pressure vessel 1, such as anywhere between the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13. Such heaters may be configured (e.g., selectively and / or controllably) to heat the pressure medium within the pressure vessel 1, such as the pressure medium within the internal space 5 or the loading chamber 2. Such heaters may include, for example, one or more heating elements, such as electric heating elements, and / or one or more heat exchangers.

[0083] As described above, a prestressing device, for example in the form of a line, may be provided on or at the outer surface of the outer wall of pressure vessel 1. This line may be wound multiple times to form one or more strips and may be wound in multiple layers (such a prestressing device is not shown in Figure 1). In the case where pressure vessel 1 is so-called integral, such a prestressing device may not be used. Alternatively or additionally, a heater may be disposed outside the pressure vessel, for example, disposed on the outer side of the surface of any prestressing device as described above, or, in the case of pressure vessel 1 being integral, disposed directly on the outer surface of the outer wall of pressure vessel 1. Any heater outside pressure vessel 1 may be operated (e.g., controlled operation) to maintain a certain temperature within pressure vessel 1 and / or provide a certain heating power that may be desired or required during the heating phase. Any heater outside pressure vessel 1 may, for example, include one or more heating elements (e.g., electric heating elements) and / or a heating medium circuit. The heating medium circuit may, for example, extend along at least a portion of the outer surface of pressure vessel 1 and may be configured to circulate a heating medium therein. The heating medium may be at a selected temperature, thereby including a certain amount of thermal energy. During the circulation of the heating medium in the heating medium circuit, there may be heat transfer from the heating medium to the pressure vessel wall, such that heat is transferred to the interior of the pressure vessel 1, particularly to the pressure medium within the pressure vessel 1, such as the pressure medium within the internal space 5 or the loading chamber 2 (e.g., the pressure medium flowing in the gap 30 shown in Figures 3 and 4 and 6 to 8). The heating medium used in the heating medium circuit may include, for example, oil.

[0084] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1, located at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. In Figure 2, the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 is not shown, thus providing a view of the pressure medium flow generator, indicated by reference numeral 14 in Figure 2. According to the embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pressure medium flow generator 14 is constituted by a pump. As shown in Figure 2, the pump inlet is fluidly coupled to the outlet 8 of a pipe, conduit, or conduit having several bends, which defines a pressure medium flow path 6. The additional pipe, conduit, or conduit can be considered as part of the pressure medium flow path 6; then, the outlet 8 is located at the coupling point of the pump inlet. As shown in Figure 2, in the pump and from the arrows emanating from the pump, the pump can radially output the pressure medium. The pressure medium output from the pump can then be received by the pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9, which can then distribute the received pressure medium flow such that the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2 conforms to a selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2.

[0085] It should be understood that, as described above, the configuration of the pressure medium flow generator 14 as a pump, its coupling with the pressure medium flow path 6, and its radially directed pressure medium output are based on an example, and other configurations are possible. For example, the pressure medium flow generator 14 may alternatively or additionally include a fan and / or an ejector, and the pressure medium flow generator may be located in another location within the stamping equipment 100, for example, in another location within the pressure vessel 1.

[0086] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1, located at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. Figure 3 shows, in more detail than Figure 1, an exemplary pressure medium flow in the loading chamber 2 located at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 and flowing into the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13. Arrows in the depicted portion of the loading chamber 2 indicate the pressure medium flow. According to the illustrated embodiment, the depicted end of the loading chamber 2 includes radially distributed through-holes through which the pressure medium in the loading chamber 2 exits the loading chamber 2 and flows to or toward the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13. The second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 can be configured to receive the flowing pressure medium exiting the loading chamber 2 and converge the pressure medium flow toward the inlet 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6, for example, according to the exemplary pressure medium flow indicated by the arrows in the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13, such that the converged pressure medium flow enters the pressure medium flow path 6 at its inlet 7. As described, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator 13 may, for example, include a diffuser according to an embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 1 and 3.

[0087] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1, located at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. Figure 4 shows, in more detail than Figure 1, an exemplary pressure medium flow from a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 into the loading chamber 2 at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1. As described, the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 may, for example, include a diffuser according to an embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 1, 2, and 4. As shown in Figure 4, as well as Figures 1 and 2, the end of the loading chamber 2 at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 may include a plurality of through-holes allowing pressure medium to pass through therethrough. Similarly, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, the end of the loading chamber 2 at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 may also include a plurality of through-holes allowing pressure medium to pass through therethrough.

[0088] Figure 5 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 5 is similar to the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1, and the same reference numerals in Figures 1 and 5 denote the same or similar parts or elements having the same or similar functions. Each of Figures 6 and 7 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 5, located at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 similar to the stamping apparatus shown in Figure 5, located at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. Compared with the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1, the position of the pressure medium flow path 6 in the loading chamber 2 is different in the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 5. As shown in Figures 5 to 8, the pressure medium flow path 6 extends parallel to the axial direction of the pressure vessel 1 and the loading chamber 2. However, in the stamping equipment 100 shown in Figures 5 to 8, the pipe, conduit, or conduit defining the pressure medium flow path 6 extends close to or in contact with the inner surface of the loading chamber 2, while in the stamping equipment 100 shown in Figures 1 to 4, the pipe, conduit, or conduit defining the pressure medium flow path 6 extends centrally within the loading chamber 2. A slight difference between the stamping equipment 100 (partial) shown in Figure 8 and the stamping equipment 100 shown in Figure 5 is that in the stamping equipment 100 shown in Figure 8, the inlet 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6 is located at or near the longitudinal axis of the loading chamber 2, while in the stamping equipment 100 shown in Figure 5, the inlet 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6 is located at the periphery of the loading chamber 2, at a certain distance from the longitudinal axis of the loading chamber 2. It should be understood that other locations for the inlet 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6, for example, relative to the loading chamber 2, are also possible.

[0089] Figure 9 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 9 is similar to the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 or 5, and the same reference numerals in Figure 9 and Figure 1 or 5 denote the same or similar parts or elements having the same or similar functions. Each of Figures 10 and 11 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 9, located at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 9, located at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100.

[0090] The stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 9 differs from the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 or 5 in that, for example, (at least one) the pressure medium flow path is not implemented as a pipe, conduit or duct defining the pressure medium flow path, but is implemented in a different manner, which will be further described below.

[0091] The stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 9 differs from the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 or 5 in that, as shown in Figure 9, the pressure medium flows through the loading chamber 2 in the direction from the first end 3 to the second end 4. Also as shown in Figure 9 (and at least in Figures 11 and 12), the pressure medium can flow along the outer encapsulation surface of the container defining the loading chamber 2 in the direction from the second end 4 to the first end 3.

[0092] According to the embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 9 to 12, a gap 15 exists between the outer encapsulation surface of the container defining the loading chamber 2 and the inner surface of the pressure cylinder 10, through which the pressure medium can flow. According to the embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 9 to 12, the gap 15 defines the flow path of the pressure medium, and therefore this gap can be referred to as the pressure medium flow path 15. The pressure medium flow path 15 extends between the inlet 7 located at the second end 4 and the outlet 8 located at the first end 3.

[0093] According to the embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 9 to 12, the internal space 5 is defined by the loading chamber 2. In other words, according to the embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 9 to 12, the loading chamber 2 and the internal space 5 coincide. Therefore, the inlet 7 and the outlet 8 are in fluid communication with the internal space 5, and the pressure medium flow path 15 is configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet 7 to the outlet 8.

[0094] It should be noted that the manner in which a pressure medium flow path (at least one) is implemented or carried out is not limited to the manner shown in, for example, Figures 1, 5, or 9, and other manner in which a pressure medium flow path (at least one) is implemented or carried out is also possible. For example, the gap defining the pressure medium flow path 15 in Figure 9 may be replaced by a semi-solid liner or sheath, which may include one or more conduits, pipes, passages, etc., extending along the length of the container defining the loading chamber 2 within the liner or sheath. Alternatively, a portion of the gap defining the pressure medium flow path 15 in Figure 9 may accommodate this liner or sheath. An example of such a solution will be described below with reference to Figure 18. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure medium flow path may be implemented by means of one or more conduits, channels, pipes, passages, etc., which are disposed within the wall of the container defining the loading chamber 2 and / or within the loading chamber 2 and may extend along the length of the container defining the loading chamber 2. For example, the container defining the loading chamber 2 can be configured as a cylinder, wherein one or more conduits, channels, pipes, passages, etc., are disposed within the cylindrical wall of the container and / or within the container and can extend along at least a portion of its length. According to another example, the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2 can be in the opposite direction to that shown in FIG. 9, and therefore the pressure medium flow through the gap defining the pressure medium flow path 15 can also be in the opposite direction to that shown in FIG. 9. In this case, a pressure medium flow distribution regulator as described herein, such as a diffuser, can be provided upstream of the loading chamber 2. This pressure medium flow distribution regulator can be configured to distribute the pressure medium flow such that the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2 conforms to a selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2.

[0095] Perhaps best shown in Figures 10 and 11, the stamping apparatus 100 may include a pressure medium flow guiding element 16, which may be configured to collect and / or converge the pressure medium flow exiting the loading chamber 2 so that the pressure medium flow generator 14 can receive the pressure medium flow. The pressure medium flow guiding element 16 may also help ensure that all or substantially all of the pressure medium flow exiting the loading chamber 2 is subsequently guided (e.g., forced) into the gap 15 via the pressure medium flow generator 14. According to an embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 9 through 12, the gap 15 defines the pressure medium flow path.

[0096] Although not shown in Figures 9 or 12, the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figures 9 to 12 may include a pressure medium flow distribution regulator, such as a diffuser, disposed at the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 15. The pressure medium flow distribution regulator may be configured to receive the pressure medium flow exiting the pressure medium flow path 15 via its outlet 8 and distribute the received pressure medium flow such that the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2 conforms to a selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2.

[0097] Figure 13 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 13 is similar to the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 or 5, and the same reference numerals in Figure 13 and Figure 1 or 5 denote the same or similar parts or elements having the same or similar functions. Each of Figures 14 and 15 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 13 located at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 13 located at the first end 3 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. Compared with the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 or 5, in the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 13, the pipe, conduit, or guide tube defining the pressure medium flow path 6 does not extend within the loading chamber 2, but extends at least partially outside the pressure vessel 1. Typically, at least one pressure medium flow path 6 exits the pressure vessel at one of the first end 3 and the second end 4, and enters the pressure vessel at the other of the first end 3 and the second end 4. According to the embodiment of the invention shown in Figures 13-16, the pressure medium flow path 6 exits the pressure vessel 1 at the first end 3 and enters the pressure vessel 1 at the second end 4. Except that the pressure medium flow path 6 does not extend within the loading chamber 2, but rather extends at least partially outside the pressure vessel 1, the functions of the parts or elements with the same reference numerals in Figures 13-16 and Figures 1-4 or 5-8 are the same or similar.

[0098] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram of a stamping apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The stamping apparatus 100 includes a pressure vessel 1. Although the pressure vessel 1 is shown only very schematically in Figure 17, the pressure vessel 1 can generally be configured in the same or similar manner as the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 13. As in the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 13, in the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 17, at least one pressure medium flow path 6 is at least partially disposed outside the pressure vessel 1. Although Figure 17 schematically shows the pressure medium flow path 6 exiting the pressure vessel 1 at one location and entering the pressure vessel 1 at another location, the pressure medium flow path can exit the pressure vessel 1 at one of a first end and a second end, and enter the pressure vessel 1 at the other of the first end and the second end (the first and second ends of the pressure vessel 1 are not indicated in Figure 17; see, for example, Figure 13). As shown in Figure 13, the pressure medium flow path 6 in Figure 17 is defined by a pipe, conduit, or duct.

[0099] The stamping equipment 100 shown in Figure 17 includes a cooling unit 20 located downstream of the inlet 7 of the pressure medium flow path 6 and configured to cool the pressure medium guided in the pressure medium flow path 6.

[0100] The stamping equipment 100 includes a pressure medium flow generator 14 disposed downstream of the cooling unit 20. The pressure medium flow generator 14 is configured to receive a pressure medium flow that has been cooled by the cooling unit 20 and to generate a pressure medium flow toward the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6.

[0101] The cooling unit 20 is configured to cool the pressure medium guided in the pressure medium flow path 6, such that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 does not exceed the selected temperature.

[0102] The stamping equipment 100 includes a heating unit 21 disposed downstream of the pressure medium flow generator 14 and upstream of the outlet of the pressure medium flow path 6. The heating unit 21 is configured to heat the pressure medium guided in the pressure medium flow path 6 such that the temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure medium flow exiting the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6 exceeds or meets a selected temperature.

[0103] In cases where the pressure medium flow generator 14 may not function properly or operate, or may even malfunction, when the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 is relatively high, the configuration of the stamping equipment 100, particularly the configuration of the pressure medium flow path 6 shown in FIG. 17, may be particularly advantageous. For example, the stamping equipment 100 may be configured to process at least one article by means of isostatic stamping, in which case the temperature of the pressure medium may become relatively high during the use of the stamping equipment 100. In cases where the temperature of the pressure medium guided into the pressure medium flow path 6 becomes too high for the pressure medium flow generator 14 to function properly or operate, the cooling unit 20 may cool the pressure medium guided in the pressure medium flow path 6 so that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 does not exceed a certain temperature above which the pressure medium flow generator 14 may not function properly or operate, or may even malfunction. Then, the heating unit 21 can heat the pressure medium guided in the pressure medium flow path 6 so that the temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure medium flow flowing out of the outlet 8 exceeds or meets a selected temperature, which can be equal to or approximately the temperature of the pressure medium when it is guided into the pressure medium flow path 6 via the inlet 7.

[0104] For example, and according to the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG17, the pressure medium flow generator 14 may include a pressure enhancer 24 and a pump 25, which may be referred to as a supply pump. When the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 (e.g., pressure enhancer 24) is relatively high, the pressure enhancer 24 may fail to operate properly or even malfunction. The cooling unit 20 can cool the pressure medium in the pressure medium flow path 6 to ensure that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the pressure medium flow generator 14 (e.g., pressure enhancer 24) does not exceed the non-rated temperature of the pressure medium flow generator 14, such as the pressure enhancer 24.

[0105] Each or either of the cooling unit 20 and the heating unit 21 may include, for example, one or more heat exchanger units, but another or other types of heating / cooling units are also possible.

[0106] According to an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 17, the stamping apparatus 100 includes a control valve 22 disposed downstream of a cooling unit 20 and a check valve assembly 23 disposed downstream of the control valve 22. As shown in FIG. 17, the check valve assembly 23 takes the pressure medium output from the cooling unit 20 as input and outputs pressure medium supplied or delivered to the heating unit 21. Also as shown in FIG. 17, the check valve assembly 23 is further fluidly coupled to a pump 25. The control valve 22 and the check valve assembly 23 can be used to control the flow of pressure medium output from a pressure booster 24. The pump 25, which can operate at relatively low pressures, can be used to supply pressure medium to the pressure booster 24, including, for example, oil and / or any other fluid, such as water.

[0107] The pressurization phase of the process, i.e., when the pressure in pressure vessel 1 increases to a certain pressure level, may involve the following operations: Pump 25 supplies pressure medium to pressure enhancer 24. As pressure enhancer 24 performs a stroke, the pressure in the pressure medium input to pressure enhancer 24 increases, and the pressurized pressure medium is delivered (e.g., pumped) to check valve assembly 23. During this operation, control valve 22 is closed (i.e., pressure medium flow is not permitted or only a small amount of pressure medium flow is permitted), and all pressure medium is delivered (e.g., pumped) to heating unit 21. Heat exchanger 21 can heat the pressure medium to a certain temperature, or heat the pressure medium such that its temperature exceeds a certain temperature before it enters pressure vessel 1 via outlet 8. Pressure enhancer 24 is operated until the selected pressure level is reached in pressure vessel 1. Then, the operation of pump 25 and pressure enhancer 24 can be stopped.

[0108] The processing of the stamping phase of a cycle, wherein at least one article is subjected to increased pressure in pressure vessel 1 for a certain (e.g., selected) time period (e.g., at or approximately at a certain pressure in pressure vessel 1, and possibly at or approximately at a certain temperature in pressure vessel 1), may involve the following: During the stamping phase, control valve 22 is opened (e.g., to allow pressure medium to flow through it). Pressure medium from cooling unit 20 is delivered via control valve 22 and supplied to pressure booster 24 via check valve assembly 23, instead of being supplied to pressure booster 24 via pump 25. For example, by changing the stroke direction of pressure booster and performing a pumping stroke, pressure medium can be directed to heating unit 21 via check valve assembly 23.

[0109] Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a pressure vessel 1 of a stamping apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The same reference numerals in Figure 18 and the previously referenced figures denote the same or similar parts or elements having the same or similar functions. Figure 18 illustrates the manner in which the (at least one) pressure medium flow path is implemented. According to the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 18, the pressure vessel 1 has a cylindrical shape, and Figure 18 shows a cross-section of the pressure vessel 1 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pressure vessel 1.

[0110] According to an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG18, a (e.g., cylindrical) gasket (or sheath) 35 is present in the pressure vessel 1, disposed near and possibly coupled to the inner surface of the pressure cylinder 10, as indicated in FIG18. The interior of the gasket 35 defines an internal space 5, in which a (e.g., cylindrical) container 36 is disposed, which may define a loading chamber 2. As shown in FIG18, a gap 15 may exist between the outer encapsulation surface of the container 36 and the gasket 35 through which the pressure medium can flow, similar to the gap 15 shown in FIG9.

[0111] According to an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG18, a plurality of pressure medium flow paths (e.g., including conduits, pipes, etc.) are provided within the gasket 35, some of which are indicated in FIG18 by reference numerals 41, 42, 43, and 44. Each of the pressure medium flow paths 41, 42, 43, and 44 may extend along at least a portion of the length of the gasket 35, for example, in a direction parallel to or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the gasket 35.

[0112] Each of the pressure medium flow paths 41, 42, 43, and 44 may have an inlet (not shown in Figure 18) at a first end (not shown in Figure 18) of the pressure vessel 1 and an outlet (not shown in Figure 18) at a second end (not shown in Figure 18), wherein the inlet and outlet are in fluid communication with the internal space 5. Each of the pressure medium flow paths 41, 42, 43, and 44 may be configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet.

[0113] According to the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 18, the pressure medium can flow through the loading chamber 2 in a direction from the first end to the second end (or vice versa), and the pressure medium can also flow through pressure medium flow paths 41, 42, 43, and 44 in a direction from the second end to the first end (or vice versa). Therefore, the pressure medium that enters the loading chamber 2 at, for example, the first end of the pressure vessel 1 and flows through the loading chamber 2 to the second end of the pressure vessel 1 or toward the second end of the pressure vessel can return to the first end of the pressure vessel 1 or flow toward the first end of the pressure vessel 1 by means of pressure medium flow paths 41, 42, 43, and 44.

[0114] Pressure medium flow paths 41, 42, 43, and 44 can be connected to share the same outlet. However, this is not required. Instead, each or any pressure medium flow path can have its own outlet, or some pressure medium flow paths can be connected to share one outlet, while other pressure medium flow paths can be connected to share another outlet. Furthermore, pressure medium flow paths 41, 42, 43, and 44 can be connected to share the same inlet, or some pressure medium flow paths can be connected to share one inlet, while other pressure medium flow paths can be connected to share another inlet. Therefore, it is not necessary for each pressure medium flow path 41, 42, 43, and 44 to have its own inlet. Moreover, it should be understood that the number of pressure medium flow paths shown in Figure 18 is based on an example, and there can be fewer or more pressure medium flow paths than shown in Figure 18.

[0115] Figure 19 is a schematic partial cross-sectional perspective view of a stamping apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 19 is similar to the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1, and the same reference numerals in Figures 1 and 19 denote the same or similar parts or elements having the same or similar functions. Each of Figures 20 and 21 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 19, located at the second end 4 of the pressure vessel 1 of the stamping apparatus 100. Compared with the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1, the stamping apparatus 100 shown in Figures 19 to 21 includes a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9, which is different from the type shown in Figures 1 and Figures 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15. The first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 shown in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, 15, and 19-21 includes a diffuser disposed at the outlet 8 of the pressure medium flow path 6. The pressure medium flow distributor 9 is configured to receive the pressure medium flow exiting the pressure medium flow path 6 via its outlet 8. The pressure medium flow distributor 9 is configured to distribute the received pressure medium flow such that the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2 conforms to the selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber 2.

[0116] The first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 shown in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15 includes a type of diffuser comprising a bowl-shaped element having a plurality of through-holes allowing pressure medium to flow through it. The first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 shown in Figures 19 to 21 includes a different type of diffuser, which may be referred to as a volute pump diffuser. The volute pump diffuser type diffuser shown in Figures 19 to 21 is configured to receive pressure medium flow exiting the pressure medium flow path 6 via its outlet 8 in a volute, within which the pressure medium can flow. Perhaps best shown in Figures 20 and 21, the diffuser includes an annular structure within which the pressure medium can flow, in fluid communication with a volute including orifices through which the pressure medium exits and is distributed, such that the distribution of pressure medium flow through loading chamber 2 conforms to a selected distribution of pressure medium flow through loading chamber 2.

[0117] It should be understood that the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator 9 in the form of a volute pump diffuser can be used in any embodiment of the invention described herein, such as replacing or combining with the diffusers shown in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15. Figure 19 shows a combination of a diffuser of the type shown in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15 and a volute pump diffuser type diffuser, wherein the diffuser of the type shown in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15 is disposed downstream of the volute pump diffuser type diffuser. However, the diffuser of the type shown in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15 can be omitted. In Figures 20 and 21, this diffuser is not shown in order to better illustrate the volute pump diffuser type diffuser. Furthermore, either the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator described herein may include a diffuser of the type shown in Figures 1, 4, 5, 7, 13, and 15, a diffuser of the type shown in Figures 19 to 21, and / or another type of diffuser.

[0118] In summary, a stamping apparatus is disclosed, comprising a pressure vessel having an internal space and a first end and a second end. A loading chamber is at least partially disposed within the internal space between the first and second ends and is configured to allow a pressure medium to flow through the loading chamber. At least one pressure medium flow path has an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with the internal space and extends between the inlet and the outlet, and is configured to guide the pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet. At least one pressure medium flow generator is configured to generate a pressure medium flow through the loading chamber between the second end and the first end within the internal space, and further generate a pressure medium flow that flows into the inlet, through the at least one pressure medium flow path, and out of the outlet.

[0119] Although the invention has been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and foregoing description, such description should be considered illustrative or exemplary, not restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments can be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the appended claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" does not exclude a plurality. The fact that certain measures are referenced in mutually different appended claims does not indicate that combinations of these measures cannot be used advantageously. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

[0120] 1: Pressure Vessel 2: Loading Room 3: First end 4: Second end 5: Interior space 6: Pressure medium guidance path 7: Entrance 8: Exports 9, 13: Pressure medium flow distribution regulator 10: Stamping equipment 11, 12: End sealing components 14: Pressure Medium Flow Generator 15, 41, 42, 43, 44: Flow path of pressure medium 16: Pressure medium flow guiding element 20: Cooling Unit 21: Heating Unit 22: Control valve 23: Check valve assembly 24: Pressure enhancer 25: Pump 30: Gap 35: Padding 36: Containers 100: Stamping Equipment

Claims

1. A stamping apparatus (100) configured to process at least one article, the stamping apparatus comprising: A pressure vessel (1) having an internal space (5) and a first end (3) and a second end (4), the pressure vessel being configured to retain a pressure medium within the internal space during use of the stamping equipment; a loading chamber (2) having at least partially disposed within the internal space between the first end and the second end, and being configured to allow pressure medium to flow through the loading chamber, the loading chamber being configured to retain at least one article therein during use of the stamping equipment; at least one pressure medium flow path (6, 41-44) having an inlet (7) at one of the first end and the second end and an outlet (8) at the other of the first end and extending between the inlet and the outlet, the inlet and the outlet being in fluid communication with the internal space, the at least one pressure medium flow path being configured to guide pressure medium from the inlet to the outlet; At least one pressure medium flow generator (14) is configured to generate a pressure medium flow through the loading chamber between the second end and the first end within the internal space, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow generator is further configured to generate the pressure medium flow that flows into the inlet, through the at least one pressure medium flow path and out of the outlet. and a pressure medium flow distribution regulator (9), the pressure medium flow distribution regulator being disposed at the outlet and configured to receive the pressure medium flow exiting the at least one pressure medium flow path via the outlet, the pressure medium flow distributor regulator being configured to distribute the received pressure medium flow such that the distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber conforms to a selected distribution of the pressure medium flow through the loading chamber.

2. The stamping equipment as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow path (6) is at least partially disposed within the internal space.

3. The stamping equipment as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow path is at least partially disposed within the pressure vessel in one or more portions thereof that are different from the internal space.

4. The stamping apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow path is at least partially disposed outside the pressure vessel, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow path exits the pressure vessel at one of the first end and the second end, and enters the pressure vessel at the other of the first end and the second end.

5. The stamping equipment as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure vessel includes a sealing structure configured to seal at least the internal space, wherein: At least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generator or the at least one pressure medium flow distribution regulator is built into the closed structure; the closed structure includes at least one cavity in fluid communication with the internal space, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow generator or the at least one pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in the at least one cavity. And / or at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generator or the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the inner surface of the closed structure, the inner surface facing the internal space.

6. The stamping equipment as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure vessel includes a sealing structure configured to seal at least the internal space, wherein the sealing structure includes a first end closure (11) disposed at one of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel and a second end closure (12) disposed at the other of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel, wherein: The at least one pressure medium flow generator is embedded in the first end closure and / or the second end closure; the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the first end closure and / or the second end closure; the first end closure and / or the second end closure includes at least one cavity in fluid communication with the internal space, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow generator is disposed in the at least one cavity; the first end closure and / or the second end closure includes at least one cavity in fluid communication with the internal space, wherein the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in the at least one cavity; the at least one pressure medium flow generator is embedded in the inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space; And / or the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space.

7. The stamping equipment as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure medium flow distribution regulator includes a diffuser.

8. The stamping apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure medium flow distribution regulator is a first pressure medium flow distribution regulator, and wherein the stamping apparatus further comprises: An additional second pressure medium flow distribution regulator (13) is configured to receive the flowing pressure medium leaving the loading chamber and converge the pressure medium flow toward the inlet such that the converged pressure medium flow enters the at least one pressure medium flow path at its inlet.

9. The stamping equipment as claimed in claim 8, wherein the pressure vessel includes a sealing structure configured to seal at least the internal space, wherein: At least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generator, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is built into the closed structure; the closed structure includes at least one cavity in fluid communication with the internal space, wherein at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generator, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in the at least one cavity; and / or at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generator, the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator, or the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the inner surface of the closed structure, the inner surface facing the internal space.

10. The stamping equipment as claimed in claim 8, wherein the pressure vessel includes a sealing structure configured to seal at least the internal space, wherein the sealing structure includes a first end closure (11) disposed at one of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel and a second end closure (12) disposed at the other of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel, wherein: The at least one pressure medium flow generator is embedded in the first end closure and / or the second end closure; the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in one of the first end closure and the second end closure, and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the other of the first end closure and the second end closure; the first end closure and / or the second end closure includes at least one cavity in fluid communication with the internal space, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow generator is disposed in the at least one cavity; one of the first end closure and the second end closure includes at least one cavity in fluid communication with the internal space, wherein the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in the at least one cavity, and the other of the first end closure and the second end closure includes at least one cavity in fluid communication with the internal space, wherein the first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is disposed in the at least one cavity; the pressure medium of the at least one pressure medium flow generator is embedded in the inner surface of the first end closure and / or the second end closure, the inner surface facing the internal space; The first pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the inner surface of one of the first end closure and the second end closure, the inner surface of which faces the internal space, and the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator is embedded in the inner surface of the other of the first end closure and the second end closure, the inner surface of which faces the internal space.

11. The stamping apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second pressure medium flow distribution regulator includes a diffuser.

12. The stamping apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow generator comprises at least one of the following: at least one fan, at least one injector, at least one pump, or at least one pressure enhancer.

13. The stamping apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow path is at least partially disposed outside the pressure vessel, wherein the stamping apparatus further comprises at least one of: a heating unit (21) configured to heat the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path from the inlet to the outlet; or a cooling unit (20) configured to cool the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path from the inlet to the outlet.

14. The stamping apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one pressure medium flow path is at least partially disposed outside the pressure vessel, wherein the stamping apparatus further comprises: A cooling unit (20) is disposed downstream of the inlet of the at least one pressure medium flow path and configured to cool the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path; wherein at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators is disposed downstream of the cooling unit and configured to receive the pressure medium flow that has been cooled by the cooling unit and generate the pressure medium flow toward the outlet in the at least one pressure medium flow path; wherein the cooling unit is configured to cool the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium received by the at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators does not exceed a selected temperature; The stamping equipment further includes a heating unit (21) disposed downstream of the at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators and upstream of the outlet, and configured to heat the pressure medium guided in the at least one pressure medium flow path such that the temperature of the pressure medium in the pressure medium flow exiting the outlet exceeds or meets a selected temperature.

15. The stamping apparatus as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one of the at least one pressure medium flow generators comprises at least one pressure enhancer (24).

16. The stamping equipment as claimed in claim 13, wherein the heating unit and / or the cooling unit comprises at least one heat exchanger unit.

17. The stamping apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pressure vessel includes a pressure cylinder (10), a first end closure (11), and a second end closure (12), the second end closure being opposite to the first end closure, wherein the first end closure is located at one of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel, and the second end closure is located at the other of the first end and the second end of the pressure vessel.

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