Connection device and connection assembly

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a connecting device (D) comprising: a shaft (17) movable in a translational manner; a piston (19) integral with the shaft (17); a bushing (35) extending about the shaft (17) and movable between a rear position and a front position; and locking members housed in the bushing, each locking member being movable relative to the bushing between a locking configuration and a releasing configuration. The shaft is movable between a disconnected position and a connected position via an intermediate position in which the shaft does not obstruct movement of the locking members to their release configuration and the bushing is in the front position; in the connected position, the shaft obstructs movement of the locking members to their release configuration and the bushing is in the rear position; and in the intermediate position, the shaft obstructs movement of the locking members to their release configuration and the bushing is in the front position. This disclosure also relates to a connecting assembly including the connecting device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connection device between two plates, and a connection assembly including the device. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that in the steel and foundry industries, a set of movable transfer ladles filled with molten metal to be discharged at the working position are fed into continuous casting machines, such as rolling mill tundishes. The movement of the transfer ladles between workstations, waiting stations, and holding stations is carried out in harsh environments (above 200°C), where any manual operation is impossible, and therefore automation is required to manipulate the transfer ladles and perform external connection operations.

[0003] In fact, in addition to the actuation system used to open and transfer the ladle, each ladle has a device that supplies different fluids or energy. Therefore, each ladle is equipped with a multi-connecting plate called a "fixed plate," which is designed to connect to another complementary multi-connecting plate called a "movable plate."

[0004] The movable plate is connected to a pneumatic supply network, hydraulic supply network, electrical supply network, or other "upstream" supply network. Each ladle used in the tundish then benefits from the fluid and energy sources via this temporary and removable connection.

[0005] At the waiting station, the automated mechanical unit on the movable plate side of the ladle (and its fixed plate) ensures the manipulation of the approach and connection of the multiple connecting plates. Specifically, the automated mechanism is responsible for partially performing the operation of centering and converging the two plates. One step involves bringing the two plates closer together under the action of the automated mechanism, particularly by engaging the central axis of the movable plate in the fixed plate to lock the movable plate in place.

[0006] Finally, the final step involves a central shaft mechanism, located at the center of the plates, taking over from the automated machinery based on a threshold for axial proximity of the two plates, ensuring the plates approach and lock at a controlled speed and under controlled force. This step is performed by a connecting device, which is the subject of this invention, rather than by automated machinery.

[0007] Therefore, after the shaft is engaged in the fixed plate, with the help of an automatic mechanical device, the position of the shaft in the plate must be locked and the plates must be assembled by means of a piston integral with the shaft to ensure the connection of the multiple connecting plates.

[0008] WO 2013 / 074 047A2 describes, for example, a manual locking device, the operation of which is not detailed.

[0009] EP 0247956 describes a locking mechanism for connecting elements of a support element. The locking mechanism is incorporated into a movable member to receive and lock a tubular shaft that secures the support element. After the latch is manually engaged on the shaft, the two support elements are actuated together by pneumatic or hydraulic assistance of a piston.

[0010] However, the latching solution requires a specific spring mechanism, and the latching solution can be activated even when the support elements are still closed, which is dangerous for installation. Furthermore, the position of the support elements is not locked.

[0011] EP 2226140 describes an apparatus for controlling the opening and closing of a control valve used for casting liquid metal. The apparatus includes means for coupling an external drive cylinder to a valve housing and a system for locking a shaft to the valve. Locking and coupling of the drive cylinder to the valve are simultaneously performed by a control unit at a housing unit integral with the valve and at a hydraulically remote housing location. Upon unlocking, the control unit disengages the coupling means and also hydraulically unlocks the cylinder.

[0012] To open or close the valve, the control unit must manage several lines, which is disadvantageous and adds costly sealing to the circuits and chambers. Furthermore, the security of the lock-in is related to the connections and pressure maintenance within the hydraulic chamber, which is not entirely satisfactory. Compared to the stable, so-called tamper-proof mechanical position that remains in place despite potential leaks, the components of EP 2226140 are affected by varying pressure factors, which cannot guarantee their function over time and introduce a risk of failure. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The present invention aims to overcome these shortcomings by proposing a new connection device for multi-connection plates, which improves the existing process level in the connection field of the steel industry.

[0014] To this end, the present invention relates to a connecting device located between two plates, one of which is a fixed plate and the other is a movable plate, each of which supports at least one hydraulic, pneumatic, and / or electrical type loop connection element intended to connect to a connection element of the same type on the other plate, the connecting device being disposed on one of the two plates and comprising:

[0015] - Body, which extends along the central axis and includes a main cavity,

[0016] - An axis that can move translationally within the body along its central axis.

[0017] - Piston, the piston is integrated with the shaft, the piston can move within the main cavity of the body and divide the main cavity into a front chamber and a rear chamber.

[0018] The device is characterized in that the connecting device further includes:

[0019] A bushing extending about an axis, the bushing being movable relative to the body along a central axis between a rear position and a front position.

[0020] The locking members are housed within a bushing, and each locking member is movable relative to the bushing between a locking configuration and a releasing configuration. In the locking configuration, each locking member is spaced apart from the central axis, and in the releasing configuration, each locking member is closer to the central axis than when it is in the locking configuration.

[0021] The shaft can move along the central axis between the disconnected and connected positions, passing through intermediate positions:

[0022] - In this disconnected position, the shaft does not obstruct the movement of the locking member in the released configuration of the locking member, and the bushing is in the forward position.

[0023] - In this connection position, the shaft blocks the movement of the locking member in the release configuration of the locking member, and the bushing is in the rear position.

[0024] - In the intermediate position between the disconnected and connected positions, the shaft blocks the movement of the locking member into its release configuration, and the bushing is in the forward position.

[0025] Using this invention, the mechanical locking of the shaft and the aggregation of the plates are achieved by a single pressure command on the piston.

[0026] According to an advantageous but non-mandatory aspect of the invention, such a connecting device may incorporate one or more of the following features, depending on any technically permissible combination:

[0027] - The connecting device includes means for resiliently returning the bushing to the front position.

[0028] - The body has a mechanical stop that restricts the forward movement of the bushing in the front position of the shaft.

[0029] - The locking member is a locking ball, and the bushing includes a radial housing that guides the locking ball between the locking configuration and the releasing configuration of the locking member.

[0030] - The shaft includes a guide ramp for guiding the locking member between the release configuration and the locking configuration of the locking member.

[0031] - The guide ramp has a distal support diameter configured to carry the locking member in the locking configuration of the locking member, and the shaft includes a groove juxtaposed on the rear of the guide ramp and having an adjacent support diameter, the adjacent support diameter allowing the locking member to move into the release configuration.

[0032] - The connecting device includes means for locking the shaft in the body along the central axis of the shaft in the connected position.

[0033] - The locking device includes at least one locking ball that is radially movable in a recess of the cylinder body between a protruding position and a retracted position. In the protruding position, the locking ball is able to pass into a groove in the shaft and prevent axial displacement of the shaft relative to the body. In the retracted position, the locking ball does not pass into the groove in the shaft.

[0034] - The locking device also includes a locking ring that is movable along the central axis in an auxiliary cavity of the body between a locked position and a released position. In the locked position, the truncated conical surface of the locking ring holds a locking ball protruding into a groove in the shaft. In the released position, the locking ball is in its retracted position and is received in a groove in the locking ring.

[0035] - The truncated conical surface of the locking ring defines the taper of the opening toward the groove of the locking ring.

[0036] - The device includes a resilient return element for returning the locking ring to its locked position.

[0037] - The connecting device includes a protective ring surrounding the shaft, which is movable along the central axis in an internal channel in which the shaft moves, and the protective ring is driven by the shaft between a protected position and a retracted position during its movement from the intermediate position to its connected position. In the protected position, the protective ring faces the body housing to hold the locking ball in the retracted position, and in the retracted position, the protective ring no longer holds the locking ball in the retracted position.

[0038] - A locking ring and an auxiliary body cavity define a chamber that is connected to a conduit that supplies pressurized fluid to the chamber.

[0039] The device includes a first conduit connected to the anterior chamber and a second conduit connected to the posterior chamber, the first and second conduits being used to supply pressurized fluid to the anterior and posterior chambers, respectively.

[0040] The present invention also relates to an assembly for connecting a movable plate to a fixed plate, the assembly comprising:

[0041] - A movable plate that supports at least a first circuit connection element.

[0042] - A fixed plate that supports at least one connecting element complementary to the first element of the movable plate.

[0043] - At least one centering member configured to position the movable plate and the fixed plate relative to each other.

[0044] The plate is characterized in that one of the plates includes the connecting device mentioned above, and the other of the plates includes a locking cylinder defining an opening that can axially retain the locking member in the locking cylinder when the locking member of the connecting device is in its locking configuration. Attached Figure Description

[0045] The invention will be better understood, and other advantages of the invention will become clearer, given the following description of the connecting device according to the principles of the invention by means of a non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a connecting assembly according to the present invention, the connecting assembly including a fixed plate and a movable plate.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting device and the locking cylinder in the disconnected position according to the present invention.

[0048] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The connecting device is in a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the intermediate locking configuration.

[0049] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 The longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting device in the transition connection stage.

[0050] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of the details of V.

[0051] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting device in the connection position.

[0052] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of detail VII.

[0053] Figure 8 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting device in the first disconnection stage.

[0054] Figure 9 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting device in the second disconnection stage.

[0055] Figure 10 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting device in the third disconnection stage.

[0056] Figure 11 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting device in the fourth disconnection stage.

[0057] Figure 12 It is a partially sectional perspective view of the connecting device based on the diagrams in plane XII-1 and plane XII-2.

[0058] Figure 13 It is a perspective view based on a partial section of the connecting device of plane XIII-1 and plane XIII-2.

[0059] Figure 14 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connecting device according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0060] Figure 1 This refers to the connecting assembly E, which consists of a fixed plate A and a movable plate B that is complementary to the fixed plate A. The connecting assembly E includes the fixed plate A, the movable plate B, and the connecting device D.

[0061] The front or far side of a plate is defined as the side of the plate facing another plate, i.e., the side with the connecting element. The rear or closed side of a plate is defined as the side of the plate opposite to the contact surface, i.e., the side opposite to the connecting element relative to the plate.

[0062] The fixed plate A includes a casting body 1 extending primarily in a vertical plane. The fixed plate A is intended to be attached to a transfer ladle (not shown), which is movable or mobile, intended for continuous casting of metal in an tundish of a rolling mill or casting machine (also not shown).

[0063] The fixed plate A has a vertical contact plane P1 from which various male connecting elements 5 (e.g., pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical components) protrude, and two guide posts 3 are perpendicular to the contact plane P1 and positioned on the side of the body 1 facing the movable plate B. For example, the fixed plate A may include a tubular upper connecting element 5A providing electrical connection. The connecting element 5 is connected to a corresponding downstream circuit via a connection channel in the body 1.

[0064] A cubic hollow movable block 7 is housed in the central region of the fixed plate A. A locking cylinder 70, integral with the movable block, is positioned in the center of this block. The locking cylinder 70 is integral with the body 1 and has a tapered cylindrical nozzle that forms a contact surface S70 facing the rear of the fixed plate A. This contact surface S70 is configured to receive a locking member of the movable plate.

[0065] The movable plate B includes a cast body 9 extending primarily in a vertical plane. The movable plate B provides a contact plane P9 in which various female connecting elements 11 (pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical components) and sockets 13 for receiving guide posts 3 are located. These female connecting elements 11 and sockets 13 are perpendicular to the contact plane P9 and positioned on the side of the body 9 facing the fixed plate A. Various connection channels in the body 9 allow connection of the connecting elements 11 to corresponding upstream circuits (not shown).

[0066] The body 9 includes a central bore 90 in a cylindrical shape designed to accommodate the connecting device D. The connecting device D includes a cylinder 15 centered on a central axis X15. In the following text, the terms "axial," "radial," etc., are used with reference to the central axis X15.

[0067] The cylinder block 15 comprises four assembled parts: a main body 150, a flange 152, a rear cover 154, and a central body 156. The main body 150 is axially arranged between the flange 152 and the rear cover 154.

[0068] The connecting device D includes a shaft 17. Shaft 17 extends along a longitudinal axis coinciding with the central axis X15, and is integral with a piston 19 fixed thereon, and is movable within a central cavity 21 of the cylinder body 15, which is enclosed by a rear cover 154. The central cavity 21 is defined as a cylindrical enclosure of the cylinder body 15 extending about an axis coinciding with the cylinder body 15's axis X15. The piston 19 divides the central cavity 21 into a front chamber 21A and a rear chamber 21B. The front chamber 21A and the rear chamber 21B define the rear chamber volume and the front chamber volume, respectively, which are variable depending on the relative position of the piston 19 within the central cavity 21 according to the central axis X15. Specifically, the volume of the front chamber 21A is defined by an intermediate wall 158 of the body 150, which extends perpendicularly to the central axis X15 toward the interior of the body 150.

[0069] The piston 19 defines an outer radial surface 190 that contacts the cylinder wall 210 of the central cavity 21. This outer radial surface 190 carries a seal 192 that contacts the cylinder wall 210.

[0070] The translational guidance of shaft 17 within cylinder 15 is provided by the inner surface 154A of the rear cover 154 with a central bore and the inner surface of the intermediate wall 158 of the central bore of cylinder 15. Each guide surface accommodates an O-ring, and each O-ring is secured by an axially attached perforated cap. Shaft 17 is free to rotate relative to cylinder 15 and according to the central axis X15 of the central cavity 21, but can be indexed into a fixed angular position. Disconnected position, connected position, and intermediate position are defined in the relative positions of shaft 17 with respect to cylinder 15.

[0071] The shaft 17 extends longitudinally beyond the rear cover 154 and beyond the flange 152 on the front side of the cylinder body 15. Adjacent portions or the rear portion 171 of the shaft 17 may include markings to indicate to the operator the position of the shaft 17 relative to the cylinder body 15.

[0072] The cylinder body 15 includes a cylindrical auxiliary cavity 23 axially defined between the distal wall and the intermediate wall 158 of the central body 156, and the auxiliary cavity 23 is internally radially defined by the central body 156 extending about the axis 17 and externally defined by the body 150.

[0073] Shaft 17 includes a groove 170, which forms a recessed relief surface on the outer surface of shaft 17. Depending on the movement of shaft 17 relative to cylinder 15, groove 170 may be located axially forward of auxiliary cavity 23. Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), or axially rearward of auxiliary cavity 23 ( Figure 4 and Figure 6 ).

[0074] The central body 156 is generally cylindrical and extends between the adjacent face of the flange 152 and the distal side of the intermediate wall 158. The central body 156 includes a radial recess 156A formed in the thickness of the wall of the central body 156, and locking balls 25 are received in the radial recess 156A. There may be six locking balls 25, or at least one locking ball 25. The locking balls 25 are capable of... Figure 7 The shaft 17 moves radially between the protruding positions shown, in which the locking ball 25 protrudes into the groove 170 of the shaft 17. In this position, the locking ball 25 prevents axial movement of the shaft 17 relative to the cylinder body 15. In another position, referred to as the retracted position, the locking ball 25 does not penetrate the groove 25 and does not prevent axial movement of the shaft 17.

[0075] The central body 156 defines an internal channel 156B centered on the central axis X15, and the axis 17 moves within the internal channel 156B.

[0076] The connecting device D includes a locking ring 27 radially positioned between the main body 150 and the central body 156. The locking ring 27 has an internal groove 270 that accommodates a locking ball 25 when axially aligned with a radial recess 156A of the central body 156. The locking ring 27 also has a truncated conical surface 272 located behind and flared forward toward the internal groove 270. The truncated conical surface 272 forms a cone with an inclination angle of approximately 5°. The locking ring 27 is capable of being positioned... Figure 5 The visible rear position and Figure 7The lock balls 25 are moved in a translational manner in the auxiliary cavity 23 between the visible front positions. In the rear position, the internal groove 270 accommodates the locking balls 25. In the front position, the truncated conical surface 272 provides a support surface for the locking balls 25 to hold them in their protruding positions.

[0077] The locking ring 27, locking ball 25 and groove 170 form a device for locking the shaft 17 in the cylinder 15 in the connected position along the central axis of the shaft 17.

[0078] The locking ring 27 carries two O-rings 274 and 276 on its inner and outer walls, respectively. Between its front and rear positions, the locking ring 27 forms a variable-volume locking chamber 23A with the body 150 and the central body 156. The sealing cross-section of the locking chamber 23A is determined by the difference in diameter between the two O-rings 274 and 276. The locking chamber 23A is also formed by the front wall 271 of the locking ring 27. This locking chamber 23A is intended to be filled with control fluid, preferably pneumatic, via a conduit 22 disposed within the cylinder 15 and extending outwards via an orifice 220 at its rear. The cylinder 15 includes a locking spring 29 positioned about a portion 278 of the locking ring 27 with a reduced outer diameter and pressed between the intermediate wall 158 of the cylinder 15 and the adjacent wall 279 of the locking ring 27. The locking ring 27 is pushed towards its front position by the locking spring 29. The control fluid present in the locking chamber 23A acts on the locking ring 27 against the spring force of the locking spring 29. The annular space where the locking spring 29 is located is affected by the ambient pressure and is not a sealed chamber. Therefore, if the pressure in the chamber 23A increases, only the spring force of the locking spring 29 resists the action of the control fluid.

[0079] The cylinder body 15 also includes a protective ring 31 positioned in the internal channel 156B and radially positioned between the central body 150 and the shaft 17. The protective ring 31 is axially driven forward by a spring 33 pressing against a support disc 159, which is attached to an elastic ring or retaining ring partially housed in the central body 156 of the cylinder body 15. The protective ring 31 has an outwardly projecting flange 310 on which the spring 33 presses. The flange 310 rests on a complementary shoulder 156C of the central body 156, which performs a stopping function of the protective ring 31 when it is axially aligned with the radial recess 156A of the locking ball 25, and the protective ring 31 holds the locking ball 25 in a retracted position outside the internal channel 156B.

[0080] The connecting device D includes a bushing 35, the wall of which is radially penetrated by an inclined recess 350 located on the side of the distal end 352 of the bushing 35. The bushing 35 extends about the distal end portion 172 of the shaft 17 and is capable of... Figure 2 The visible front position and Figure 6 The visible rear positions move axially relative to the cylinder block 15.

[0081] The inclined recess 350 of the bushing 35 is inclined at an angle a1 between 40° and 80° relative to the central axis X15, preferably equal to 60°. The inclined recess 350 defines an axis tangent to the axis X15 at a plane located in front of the inclined recess 350 that is perpendicular to the axis X15.

[0082] The connecting device D includes a locking member formed by locking balls 37 housed in an inclined recess 350. The number of locking balls 37 can be eight. The locking balls 37 are radially guided in the inclined radial recess 350 and are capable of... Figure 3 The locking configuration visible in the middle and Figure 2 The movement occurs between the visible release configurations, in which the locking ball 37 protrudes relative to the outer surface 354 of the bushing 35. In this position, the locking ball 37 takes a radial position closer to the central axis X15 than when it is in the locking configuration, and thus retracts from the outer surface 354.

[0083] The bushing 35 has an inner wall 356 forming a shoulder 356A. The shoulder 356A provides a support surface for a spring 39 housed within the bushing 50 about the shaft 17, and the spring 39 presses against the forward-facing shoulder 174 of the shaft 17, causing the bushing 35 to be elastically pushed forward. Alternatively, an elastic return mechanism other than the spring 39 can provide an elastic return of the bushing 35 to the forward position.

[0084] Flange 152 includes a central opening with a contracting diameter, such as a seat 152A in which bushing 35 slides. Seat 152A provides a mechanical stop to the closed collar 358 of bushing 35 in a forward position relative to cylinder block 15. Seat 152A provides a mechanical stop, thereby limiting forward movement of bushing 35 in the forward position of shaft 17.

[0085] Alternatively, the bushing 35 may define an axial stop 351 on its outer surface 354 located behind the inclined recess 350 in a widened diameter, thereby allowing support on the front of the locking cylinder 70 of the fixed plate A.

[0086] Shaft 17 defines a groove 176 at its distal end, which is capable of receiving the locking ball 37 in its release configuration and bringing the locking ball 37 outward into its locking configuration. On the front side of the groove 176, shaft 17 defines a ramp 176A, which slopes towards the rear of shaft 17 and helps guide the locking ball 37 from its release configuration to its locking configuration. Ramps 176A have a distal support diameter D1 configured to bring the locking member in its locking configuration away from the central axis X15. Groove 176 has an adjacent support diameter D2, which is smaller than the distal support diameter D1, and thus allows the locking member to move toward the central axis X15 into the release configuration.

[0087] The connecting device D also includes pneumatic control components (not shown), such as pneumatic valves that communicate with a computer or human-machine interface, and manages the circulation of control fluid through the front chamber 21A, the rear chamber 21B, and the locking chamber 23A. The piping is based on... Figure 13 and Figure 14 The cylinder body 15, visible in the diagram, has various cutouts that connect the front chamber 21A, rear chamber 21B, and locking chamber 23A to various pneumatic connection elements mounted on the rear part of the movable plate B (not shown), thereby allowing these chambers to be pressurized connected to a pneumatic valve. Specifically, at least one conduit 24 is provided to connect the front chamber 21A to a connection port 240 on the rear part of the cylinder body 15 to a pneumatic valve. At least one conduit 26 is provided to connect the rear chamber 21B to a connection port 260 on the rear part of the cylinder body 15 to a pneumatic valve. This valve benefits from a pressurized air system for regulating the chamber pressure.

[0088] The valve can be double-acting to control the position of piston 19.

[0089] The locking chamber 23A can be controlled by a single-acting valve, while the return of the locking ring 27 is ensured by the locking spring 29.

[0090] Reference Figures 2 to 11 The operation of the connecting device D is described. The chamber into which pressurized fluid is injected is painted black.

[0091] During the phase of connecting the transfer ladle to the energy and fluid circuit, the operator or automated mechanical unit begins the connection process of the fixed multi-connection plate A and the movable multi-connection plate B.

[0092] The movable plate B is processed by an automatic mechanical unit (not shown) that is able to preposition the movable plate B, in particular its socket 13, on the guide post 3 of the fixed plate A, and to enable the fixed plate A and the movable plate B to approach each other.

[0093] During the remainder of the process, the axial guidance of the fixed plate A and the movable plate B, the alignment of the connecting elements with each other, and the centering of the shaft 17 relative to the locking cylinder 70 are achieved by the guide post 3.

[0094] When the distance between the movable plate B and the fixed plate A is approximately 30 mm, for example, 24 mm, the shaft 17 engages the locking cylinder 70 of the fixed plate A. The locking ball 37 retracts freely in the release configuration due to its alignment with the groove 176, wherein the shaft 17 is in the disconnected position. Figure 2 This allows shaft 17 to be inserted into fixed plate A. Bushing 35 is in the front position.

[0095] For example, the end-of-stroke detector of the proximity sensor (not shown) signals to the automated mechanical unit that the movable plate B has reached the point where the pneumatic control system should trigger the retraction of shaft 17. Device D takes over from the automated mechanical unit, bringing plates A and B together. While the automated mechanical unit holds plate A in place with a certain axial displacement tolerance, the pneumatic control system controls the supply to the front chamber 21A and allows the amount of air contained in the rear chamber 21B to escape. According to... Figure 3 As indicated by arrow F1, the increased pressure in the anterior chamber 21A causes the shaft 17 to be driven rearward relative to the cylinder block 15. This short-stroke axial drive, for example 4 mm, brings the locking ball 37 into contact with the inclined surface 176A of the shaft 17. The locking ball 37 is pushed radially outward by the inclined surface 176A and thus achieves its locking configuration against the surface S70. The locking ball 37 forms a means for axially holding the movable plate B relative to the fixed plate A by limiting the relative movement of the shaft 17 and the piston 19 with the locking cylinder 70.

[0096] The bushing 35 has reached the forward position relative to the shaft 17 while remaining abutting against the seat 152A of the flange 152. Alternatively, the bushing 35 is supported against the locking cylinder 70 by its stop 351.

[0097] Then axis 17 is in the middle position ( Figure 3 The shaft 17 is locked in the fixed plate A. The inclined surface 176A prevents the locking ball 37 from returning to its released configuration. A portion of the shaft 17 protrudes from the rear of the movable plate B to a greater extent than when it is in the disconnected position, indicating that the step of locking the shaft 17 into the fixed plate A has been completed.

[0098] During the further connection process, the automatic mechanical unit stops manipulating the movable plate B, the position of which is determined by the axial position of the control shaft 17 relative to the cylinder 15.

[0099] With the bushing 35 resting against the locking cylinder 70 and the shaft 17 blocked by the spring 39, the bushing 35 and the shaft 17 form a displacement shaft for axially guiding the cylinder 15 and the movable plate B in the final stage when the movable plate B approaches the fixed plate A.

[0100] Bushing 35 may not be adjacent to locking cylinder 70. In this case, the positions of cylinder 15 and shaft 17 relative to fixed plate A can have a certain axial float without affecting the safety of connecting assembly E.

[0101] according to Figure 4 As indicated by arrow F2, the feed of the front chamber 21A continues, causing the piston 19 to be pushed rearward and the cylinder 15 and movable plate B to be pushed forward, increasing their volume. The locking ball 25 remains in the groove 270 of the locking ring 27 via the protective ring 31, which itself is driven forward by its spring 33, in a protected position aligned with the shaft 17 and the recess 156A. The protective ring 31 advances along the shaft 17 under the recoil of the shaft 17, approaching the groove 170 of the shaft 17 until it rests on the shoulder 178 of the shaft 17, reaching the rear of the groove 170. Figure 5 ).

[0102] When plates A and B are brought together, an axial clearance J1 is formed between the bushing 358 of the bushing 35 and the seat 152A.

[0103] exist Figure 6 In the process, at the end of the approach stroke of plates A and B, the locking balls 25 begin to axially align with the groove 170 and are no longer held by the protective ring 31. The protective ring 31 is pushed backward into the retracted position by the shoulder 178 against the force of the spring 33, in which the locking balls 25 are no longer held in the groove 270. Then, the locking balls 25 are radially pushed into the groove 170 by the truncated conical surface 272, so that they no longer protrude toward the locking ring 27. The locking ring 27, under the elastic force of the spring 29, is driven forward. The truncated conical surface 272 rests on the locking balls 25 to hold the locking balls 25 in the groove 170 by the recess 156A of the central cylinder 156. Thus, the shaft 17 is axially locked, as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown.

[0104] exist Figure 6 In this configuration, plates A and B are in surface contact, and cylinder 15 is locked to shaft 17 via its central body 150. Shaft 17 itself is locked to the front at locking sleeve 70. Peripheral connectors 5 and 11 for connecting plates A and B are coupled to establish pneumatic, hydraulic, and other circuits between plates A and B, and more broadly between the fluid / energy network and the ladle. Connecting assembly E is in the connected position, detected by a contact sensor. Shaft 17 is then in the connected position.

[0105] At the plate connection point, a repulsive force of approximately 150 daN associated with the plate connection loop tends to push plates A and B together. These forces tend to push the locking ball 25 backward into contact with the adjacent wall of the recess, which in turn tends to centrifugally push the locking ball 25 back into the recess, thereby contacting the inner truncated conical wall of the locking ring. The slope is small, ensuring that the centripetal force does not generate a sufficiently small component opposite to the spring's axial force that pushes the locking ring.

[0106] The connection position of the plates is ensured by the mechanical locking of the locking ball 25 in shaft 17 relative to cylinder 15. This ensures that the mechanical connection of the connecting assembly E is maintained to ensure installation during the loop feed operation. After the feed operation, plates A and B are disconnected. The condition for plates A and B to begin separating is that the locking ring 27 releases the locking ball 25 to release the translation of cylinder 15 relative to shaft 17.

[0107] according to Figure 8 Arrow F3 indicates that the pressure applied to locking chamber 23A causes locking ring 27 to move backward against spring 29. Then, as... Figure 9 As can be seen, the locking ball 25 can be placed in the groove 270 of the locking ring 27.

[0108] When the locking ring 27 returns to the rear position or the released position, Figure 10 In the process, the separation of plate A and plate B is initiated by feeding the rear chamber 21B, while the locking chamber 23A is kept under pressure, thereby preventing the locking ring 27 from returning to the forward position.

[0109] The rear chamber 21B fills and the resulting pressure drives the cylinder 15 rearward relative to the shaft 17. This relative movement between the cylinder 15 and the shaft 17 causes the cylinder to return towards the front of the protective ring 31 under the action of the spring 33, and the locking ball 25 to be positioned around the protective ring 31. The protective ring 31 then resumes its function of holding the locking ball 25 in its retracted position, the locking ball being received in the groove 270 of the locking ring 27.

[0110] The separation operation continues until the end of the stroke is detected by a relevant device, such as a proximity sensor (not shown). At this distance, bushing 35 rests against locking cylinder 70 and against or nearly against seat 152A of flange 152. The automaton is able to re-engage movable plate B. Shaft 17 is in the intermediate position.

[0111] When bushing 35 is held in contact with flange 152, the retention of movable plate B, combined with rear chamber pressure 21B, causes shaft 17 to translate forward. This releases locking ball 37 from its deployed position. Figure 11The locking balls 37 return to their position in the distal recess of the shaft 17. The shaft 17 is in the disengaged position. Because the seat 152A resists the forward force of the spring 39, limiting the forward movement of the bushing 35, the locking balls 37 are no longer held in the locked configuration. The automaton can then take over from the connecting device D to move the fixed plate A backward, and specifically to disengage the shaft 17 from the locking cylinder 70. The disengagement and separation of plates A and B are performed in the reverse order of the connection operation, such that plate B remains guided by the guide post 3 and the complementary socket 13 and driven by the automaton with a certain buoyancy.

[0112] When the automatic mechanical unit has moved the movable plate B sufficiently away from the fixed plate A and the socket 13 away from the guide post 3, the automatic mechanical unit takes over the movable plate B to move it out of the area, waiting for the next fixed plate A, and thus waiting for the next transfer ladle to be connected.

[0113] Figure 14 The second embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the elements common to the first embodiment have the same reference numerals and the same functions.

[0114] In this embodiment, the locking ring 27 has opposite kinematics but the same locking function. The locking ring 27 is movable between a front position and a rear position. In the front position, the locking ball 25 is received in the groove 270 of the locking ring 27. In the rear position, the truncated conical surface 272 pushes the locking ball 25 back into the groove 170 of the shaft 17. The spring 29 pushes the locking ring 27 to its rear position.

[0115] The present invention has the following advantages:

[0116] - The axial locking of shaft 17 relative to cylinder block 15 is achieved and maintained by mechanical elements without the need for external pressure or energy.

[0117] - The locking ring 27 and its truncated conical surface 272 allow for gap adjustment during connection and disconnection cycles.

[0118] - A fairly simple design component equipped with a fixing plate A, such as a locking cylinder 70, is sufficient to achieve a secure connection with the connecting device D.

[0119] - The protective ring 31 prevents wear on the shaft 17 that may be caused by the rolling of the locking ball 25 and its radial pressure directly on the shaft 17.

[0120] - In thermal environments where connecting device D is used, pneumatic solutions are more feasible than mechanical and electrical solutions.

[0121] Unlike hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic solutions are advantageous in flammable environments.

[0122] - The locking of shaft 17 in locking cylinder 70 is mechanical and independent of pneumatic control.

[0123] - The cylinder block 15 is locked relative to the shaft 17 to secure the connecting assembly E.

[0124] - The pneumatic solution for bringing two plates A and B together offers a compact, inexpensive, and adaptable solution (unlike commercial motors which restrict standard components) and provides flexibility for movement in a small space due to the two pneumatic chambers.

[0125] - The use of locking balls 37 and 25 prevents deformation under the force of disconnection / connection of plates A and B. Locking ball 37 provides high circulation capacity and overcomes clogging problems.

[0126] According to the implementation method not shown:

[0127] The conduit 22 for the release chamber 23A can be in fluid communication with the rear chamber 21B. Pneumatic control of the cylinder 15 towards the rearward direction, caused by the injection of air into the rear chamber 21B, simultaneously causes the retraction of the locking ring 27, thereby releasing the cylinder 15 from the shaft. Advantageously, the conduit 22 leading to the release chamber 27 has a larger diameter, for example, 4 mm, than the conduit 26 of the rear chamber 21B, for example, 1 mm. Therefore, by unlocking the locking ring 27 before pressurization of the rear chamber 21B, it is easier to initiate the actuation of the shaft 17. This effect is due to the reduced flow rate in the rear chamber 21B, which also promotes a damping effect on the shaft 17.

[0128] The locking ring 27 can be controlled by a double-acting pneumatic device and therefore does not have an elastic return mechanism such as the locking spring 29.

[0129] The connecting device D may not include the protective ring 31: when the locking ball does not protrude into the groove 170, the diameter of the shaft 17 at the level of the protective ring 31 will increase to keep the locking ball 25 in the retracted position in the locking ring 27.

[0130] The locking ball 37 can be replaced by other locking components, such as the fingers, sections, or movable pins in the bushing 35.

[0131] Similarly, the locking ball 25 can be replaced by different locking elements, such as sections, pins, etc.

[0132] The recess 350 of the locking ball 37 can be tilted at different angles a1.

[0133] Bushing 35 can be made into two connecting parts.

[0134] The spring 39 of bushing 35 can be mounted around shaft 17 at the rear of bushing 35, rather than inside bushing 35.

[0135] The locking ring 27 may not include the truncated conical surface 272, which may be replaced by a cylindrical surface.

[0136] The connecting device D is shown mounted on the movable plate B. Alternatively, the fixed plate A may carry the connecting device D, while the movable plate B carries the locking cylinder 70.

[0137] The connecting device D can be hydraulically operated using appropriate seals, instead of pneumatically operated.

[0138] This invention is more generally applicable to the field of connecting multiple connecting plates, and particularly to their final connection methods.

Claims

1. A connecting device (D) located between two plates, one plate being a fixed plate (A) and the other plate being a movable plate (B), each of the two plates supporting at least one hydraulic, pneumatic, and / or electrical type loop connection element (5, 11), the loop connection element (5, 11) being intended to be paired with a connection element (5, 11) of the same type on the other plate, the connecting device being disposed on one of the two plates and comprising: - Cylinder body (15), which extends along the central axis (X15) and includes a main cavity (21). - A shaft (17) capable of translational movement within the cylinder body (15) along the central axis (X15) of the cylinder body. - Piston (19), which is integral with the shaft (17), and is capable of moving within the main chamber of the cylinder and dividing the main chamber into a front chamber (21A) and a rear chamber (21B). The connecting device is characterized in that it further includes: - A bushing (35) extending about the shaft (17), the bushing being movable relative to the cylinder block (15) along the central axis (X15) between a rear position and a front position. - Locking members, which are housed in the bushing (35), each locking member being movable relative to the bushing between a locking configuration and a releasing configuration, in which each locking member is spaced apart from the central axis (X15), and in which each locking member is closer to the central axis (X15) than in the locking configuration. The shaft (17) is capable of moving along the central axis (X15) between the disconnected position and the connected position via an intermediate position: - In the disconnected position, the shaft (17) does not obstruct the movement of the locking member in the release configuration of the locking member, and the bushing (35) is in the front position. - In the connected position, the shaft (17) blocks the movement of the locking member in the release configuration of the locking member, and the bushing (35) is in the rear position. - In the intermediate position between the disconnected position and the connected position, the shaft (17) resists movement of the locking member in the release configuration of the locking member, and the bushing (35) is in the front position.

2. The connecting device (D) according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting device (D) includes a means (39) for elastically returning the bushing (35) to the front position.

3. The connecting device (D) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The cylinder (15) has a mechanical stop (152A) that restricts the forward displacement of the bushing (35) in the front position of the shaft (17).

4. The connecting device (D) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The locking member is a locking ball (37), and the bushing (35) includes a radial recess (350) that guides the locking ball (37) between a locking configuration and a releasing configuration of the locking member.

5. The connecting device (D) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The shaft (17) includes a guide ramp (176A) for guiding the locking member between the release configuration and the locking configuration of the locking member.

6. The connecting device (D) according to claim 5, wherein, The guide ramp (176A) has a distal support diameter (D1) configured to carry the locking member in a locking configuration of the locking member, and wherein the shaft (17) includes a groove (176) disposed on the rear portion of the guide ramp (176A) and having an adjacent support diameter (D2) that allows the locking member to move into the release configuration.

7. The connecting device (D) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting device (D) includes a locking device for locking the shaft (17) in the cylinder (15) along the central axis (X15) of the shaft (17) in the connecting position.

8. The connecting device (D) according to claim 7, wherein, The locking device includes at least one locking ball (25) that is radially movable in a recess (156A) of the cylinder (15) between a protruding position and a retracted position, wherein in the protruding position the locking ball (25) is able to penetrate into a groove (170) of the shaft (17) and prevent axial displacement of the shaft (17) relative to the cylinder (15), and in the retracted position the locking ball (25) is not penetrated into the groove (170) of the shaft (17).

9. The connecting device (D) according to claim 8, wherein, The locking device further includes a locking ring (27) movable in an auxiliary cavity (23) of the cylinder (15) along the central axis (X15) between a locked position and a released position, wherein in the locked position, the truncated conical surface (272) of the locking ring (27) remains protruding into the groove (170) of the shaft (17) of the locking ball (25), and in the released position, the locking ball (25) is in its retracted position and is received in the groove (270) of the locking ring (27).

10. The connecting device (D) according to claim 9, wherein, The truncated conical surface (272) of the locking ring (27) defines the taper that opens toward the groove (270) of the locking ring.

11. The connecting device (D) according to claim 9, wherein, The connecting device includes an elastic member (29) for pushing the locking ring (27) toward its locked position.

12. The connecting device (D) according to claim 8, wherein, The connecting device includes a protective ring (31) surrounding the shaft (17), the protective ring (31) being movable along the central axis (X15) in an internal channel (156B) in which the shaft (17) moves, and the protective ring (31) being driven by the shaft (17) between a protected position and a retracted position during the movement of the protective ring (31) from the intermediate position to the connected position of the protective ring (31), in the protected position, the protective ring (31) facing the recess (156A) of the cylinder (15) to hold the locking ball (25) in the retracted position, and in the retracted position, the protective ring (31) no longer holds the locking ball (25) in the retracted position.

13. The connecting device (D) according to claim 9, wherein, The locking ring (27) and the auxiliary cavity (23) of the cylinder (15) define a chamber (23A) which is connected to a conduit (22) that allows the chamber (23A) to be supplied with pressurized fluid.

14. The connecting device (D) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The connection device includes a first conduit (24) connected to the anterior chamber (21A) and a second conduit (26) connected to the rear chamber (21B), the first conduit and the second conduit allowing pressurized fluid to be supplied to the anterior chamber and the rear chamber, respectively.

15. A connecting assembly (E) for a movable plate (B) and a fixed plate (A), the connecting assembly (E) comprising: - Movable plate (B), which supports at least a first circuit connection element (11). - Fixed plate (A), which supports at least one connecting element (5) that is complementary to the first circuit connecting element (11) of the movable plate (B). - At least one centering member (3, 13) configured to position the movable plate (B) and the fixed plate (A) relative to each other. The feature is that one of the fixed plate (A) and the movable plate (B) includes a connecting device (D) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, and the other of the fixed plate (A) and the movable plate (B) includes a locking cylinder (70) defining an opening (S70) which is capable of axially retaining the locking member in the locking cylinder (70) when the locking member of the connecting device (D) is in its locked configuration.

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