Liquid-tight drive connections for engine and transmission couplings

Abstract

The present invention relates to a drive connection for coupling an engine to a gearbox of a machine, wherein the drive connection provides a fluid-tight seal. Accordingly, a drive connection (10) for coupling an engine to a gearbox of a machine is proposed, comprising a housing (12) having an inner cavity (14) extending from a first open end (16) of the housing (12) to a second open end (18) of the housing (12), wherein the inner cavity is configured to accommodate and enclose a clutch. The housing (12) defines a first coupling interface (20) at the first open end (16) for coupling the drive connection (10) to the engine, and a second coupling interface (22) at the second open end (18) for coupling the drive connection (10) to the gearbox, wherein each coupling interface (20, 22) includes a sealing member (24), wherein the housing (12) and the sealing member (24) are configured to fluidically seal the inner cavity (14) when the drive connection (10) is in a coupled state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a drive connection for coupling an engine to a gearbox of a machine, in particular for mining applications or mining machines, and to a system comprising a gearbox housing for a machine and a corresponding drive connection coupled to the gearbox housing. Background Art

[0002] A drive connection is typically used to connect a gearbox or transmission to a motor and typically incorporates or houses a clutch to achieve the required torque coupling. The drive connection thus forms the connection interface and typically forms the support for the motor, so that in the assembled state, the motor is held and supported at only one end by the drive connection and the coupled gearbox. Since the motor or engine and gearbox are often not produced by the same manufacturer, difficulties can arise when securing the motor to the drive connection, making the primary focus of the drive connection a matter of providing appropriate, and preferably variable, securing or attachment means to accommodate different manufacturers' configurations.

[0003] Furthermore, due to the varying configurations and partial incompatibilities of the connection interfaces, current drive connections are not fluid-tight. While this is generally not a major concern, situations may arise where such drive connections need to be sealed against, for example, water or oil. For example, a drive, and therefore the drive connection, may operate partially in water, making it necessary to prevent water from entering the drive connection in order to prevent water from seeping into the motor via, for example, the bearings. Furthermore, clutches may be used that require full operation or function in oil. In such cases, it is necessary to prevent oil leakage from the drive connection.

[0004] Both situations may occur in particular in underground mining applications, where the machinery operates in wet or even (partially) underwater conditions and / or where the machinery requires an oil-operated clutch. In this regard, longwall mining systems often include a gearbox or transmission system equipped with a breathing filter for ventilation and pressure compensation in the event of temperature variations between, for example, the ambient air and the transmission temperature, and / or for equalizing the pressure during operation.

[0005] However, in certain circumstances, the transmission system may come into contact with external water, dirt, and / or dust flowing through the apertures in the transmission housing. As a result, the transmission system may become damaged. Furthermore, environmental dirt may cause the breathing filter to become clogged or blocked, impairing pressure and temperature control functions. This can lead to a buildup of high pressure in the transmission system and drive connections, necessitating interruption of operation to prevent further damage to the machine's drive components.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to prevent fluid leakage into and out of the core components of the drive assembly and to ensure that such a drive assembly is operable even in harsh underground conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Starting from the prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide a new and inventive drive connection for coupling an engine or motor to a gearbox of a machine. In particular, one object is to provide a drive connection that allows operation in (partially) underwater conditions and / or allows a clutch that can operate completely in oil.

[0008] This object is solved by a drive connection having the features described below.Preferred embodiments are set forth in the description, the drawings and the dependent claims.

[0009] Therefore, a drive connection for coupling an engine to a transmission of a machine is provided, the drive connection comprising a housing having an interior cavity extending from a first open end of the housing to a second open end of the housing and configured to house and enclose a clutch. The housing defines a first coupling interface at the first open end for coupling the drive connection to an engine or motor, and a second coupling interface at the second open end for coupling the drive connection to a transmission. Each coupling interface further comprises a sealing member, wherein the housing and the sealing member are configured to fluidically seal the interior cavity when the drive connection is in a coupled state.

[0010] Furthermore, a system is proposed, comprising a transmission housing for a machine and a drive connection as described herein, wherein the drive connection is coupled to a corresponding coupling interface of the transmission housing, and wherein the transmission housing defines an internal cavity for receiving a gear or a transmission and is formed as a continuous enclosure that fluidically seals the internal cavity. The transmission housing further comprises a pressure sensor in communication with the internal cavity, the pressure sensor being configured to detect a pressure within the internal cavity and communicatively coupled to a control unit of the machine. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The present invention will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 A schematic diagram depicting a partial longitudinal section of a drive connection coupled to a motor and a gearbox;

[0013] Figure 2 This is the basis for the uncoupled state as seen from the gearbox side. Figure 1 A schematic side view of a drive connection;

[0014] Figure 3 is based on Figure 2 A schematic longitudinal sectional view of a drive connection;

[0015] Figure 4 is based on Figure 3 A schematic side view of a drive connection;

[0016] Figure 5 is based on Figure 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of a drive connection; and

[0017] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the system including the gearbox housing and drive connection. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same elements are represented by the same reference numerals, and in order to avoid repetition, repeated description thereof may be omitted.

[0019] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the drive connection 10 is schematically shown in an arrangement with a coupled motor and gearbox, which are schematically depicted in FIG. Figure 1 Thus, a drive connection can be implemented in a machine and configured to couple an engine to a gearbox of such a machine. For example, the drive connection can include a clutch, which is desirable for certain applications, such as in mining applications, such as longwall mining systems.

[0020] The drive connection 10 includes a housing 12 that defines an interior cavity 14 extending from a first open end 16 of the housing 12 to a second open end 18 of the housing 12, thereby forming a continuous space that is communicatively coupled to the exterior of the drive connection 10. Thus, the interior cavity 14 can be configured to house and enclose a clutch and / or clutch components, which are not shown in all detail in this embodiment, as desired. The housing 12 thus forms a protective cover for each component housed therein.

[0021] In addition, the first and second open ends 16, 18 of the housing 12 can allow a shaft to extend through the inner cavity 14 to provide torque transfer from the motor to the gear. Although according to the present embodiment, the first and second ends 16, 18 can have various arrangements, i.e., be angled relative to each other, these are arranged at opposite ends along the longitudinal axis 26. At each open end 16, 18, the housing 12 further defines a respective first and second coupling interface 20, 22 for coupling the drive connection 10 to the engine and the transmission, respectively. Although not shown in greater detail, such coupling can be provided, for example, by one or more set screws or bolts that securely secure the respective coupling interface 20, 22 to a corresponding coupling interface of the component to be coupled thereto, for example, through a coupling interface that is essentially formed as a flange having one or more holes or through-holes.

[0022] In order to ensure that the inner cavity 14 of the housing 12 is protected from liquid or fluid from the surrounding environment of the drive connection 10 and penetrate into the inner cavity 14, each coupling interface 20, 22 further includes a sealing member 24, wherein the housing 12 and the sealing member 24 are configured to fluidically seal the inner cavity 14 when the drive connection 10 is in the coupled state. For example, the sealing member 24 can be formed as a gasket, a washer or an O-ring that deforms around the openings 16, 18 of the corresponding coupling interface 20, 22 and due to the compressive force acting on it when coupled. Thus, the sealing member 24 is flush with both the coupling interface 20, 22 of the drive connection 10 and the component to be coupled and forms a continuous fluid-tight seal. The sealing member 24 can be accommodated in a corresponding groove or recess provided at the corresponding coupling interface 20, 22, wherein the geometry of the sealing member 24 and these coupling interfaces 20, 22 is preferably adapted to the coupling interface of the component to be coupled so as to further optimize and promote fluid sealing.

[0023] As described above, the fluid-tight seal prevents liquid surrounding the drive connection 10 from entering the inner cavity 14, thereby avoiding potential damage to the machinery. Simultaneously, this also ensures that liquid contained within the drive connection 10, i.e., the inner cavity 14, does not escape or leak from the inner cavity 14. Therefore, the drive connection 10 can also be configured to be filled with a lubricant, such as oil, so that the clutch and / or clutch components optionally included within the inner cavity 14 of the drive connection 10 can operate in oil, which may be desirable for certain applications, particularly in mining applications.

[0024] Figure 2 Depicted schematically and viewed from the gearbox side, the Figure 1 10 . Thus, the second coupling interface 22 is visible in the view from the longitudinal axis 26 . Here, the sealing member 24 is shown as completely enclosing and surrounding the second opening and the components housed within the inner cavity. In this embodiment, an optional crown gear 28 is shown housed within the inner cavity, with an optional speed sensor 30 disposed within the inner cavity and optically coupled to a corresponding component of the crown gear or shaft 26 in order to transmit the detected speed to a control unit (not shown) of the machine, for example via a communication interface.

[0025] In addition, according to Figure 2The embodiment includes optional alignment pins 32 that are arranged along the outer circumference of the second opening and the corresponding coupling interface 22. Obviously, this embodiment is not limited to the number of alignment pins shown here, and the spacing between the alignment pins 32 can also be different, so that the alignment pins 32 can also be provided in various optional arrangements. However, in this embodiment, the alignment pins 32 are arranged at substantially equal intervals along the circumference and at substantially the same radial distance relative to the longitudinal axis 26. The alignment pins 32 facilitate coupling the drive connection 10 to the gearbox and, similarly to the motor on another coupling interface (not shown) of the drive connection 10, ensure that the drive connection 10 is correctly aligned and oriented relative to the gearbox (and motor). In addition, this ensures that the sealing member 24 is arranged in a predetermined manner between the coupling interface 22 and the gearbox, thereby further ensuring proper sealing of the inner cavity of the drive connection 10.

[0026] Figure 3 Shown Figure 2 , wherein the alignment pins 32 are shown on the second coupling interface 22 and the first coupling interface 20 of the drive connection 10. Thus, the alignment pins 32 on the first coupling interface 20 can also facilitate the coupling, alignment, orientation, and sealing of the first open end of the motor side of the drive connection 10 or the inner cavity at the first coupling interface 20, as described above with respect to the second coupling interface 22.

[0027] Here, it is also shown that these sealing members 24 can be at least partially accommodated in the respective coupling interface 20, 22, for example, in a groove or recess in the coupling interface 20, 22. Although the sealing members 24 can be glued to the coupling interface 20, 22, it can also be provided that the groove or recess substantially retains the sealing member 24, but allows detachment, for example for replacement purposes or to adapt the drive connection to other geometries or operating requirements.

[0028] The housing 12 of the drive connection 10 may also include one or more closure members 34, such as Figure 4 For example, the closure 34 may provide a low-speed gear or other optional component that can be coupled to the machine via the inner cavity of the drive connector 10. The closure 34 can be configured to open and close via a pivot or hinge, and to seal the opening to the inner cavity in the closed position, for example, by means of a corresponding sealing member surrounding the opening. However, such a pivot or hinge is merely optional, and the closure 34 may also be releasably attached to the housing 12 by one or more fixings or screws located at opposite ends of the closure 34, such as Figure 4 Furthermore, while the closure 34 is shown extending between the first and second coupling interfaces 20 , 22 , the closure 34 may have alternative configurations and, for example, be sized smaller.

[0029] In accordance with Figure 5 The closure member 34 is shown in more detail in the embodiment of FIG. Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of drive connection 10 is shown. In this embodiment, an optional crown gear 28 and a speed sensor 30 are also shown, with speed sensor 30 shown extending through housing 12 in a fluid-tight manner and facilitating communication with, for example, a control unit. In this embodiment, two closures 34 are shown mirrored relative to a longitudinal plane passing through longitudinal axis 26, i.e., closures 34 are spaced circumferentially apart from one another. This allows alternative configurations and additional components to be coupled to the machine via the interior of housing 12, thereby facilitating adjustment of the drive connection and / or one or more clutch components housed therein.

[0030] Furthermore, on the opposite side of the speed sensor 30, another connection interface is shown to enable access to the inner cavity 14 and which may accommodate, for example, another sensor, such as one or more sensors configured to detect temperature, level and / or pressure within the inner cavity and which is also communicatively coupled to the control unit of the machine.

[0031] exist Figure 6 , a schematic diagram of system 36 is shown, comprising a gearbox housing 38 and a drive connection 10 as described above. Drive connection 10 is coupled to a corresponding coupling interface 40 of gearbox housing 38 via securing means, such as set screws or bolts and / or flanges. A motor may be coupled to the other end of drive connection 10, as indicated by the dashed rectangle. Gearbox housing 38 defines an interior cavity 42 for accommodating a gear or transmission, and is formed as a continuous enclosure that fluid-tightly seals interior cavity 42. Thus, the gearbox housing and system are fully compatible with operating environments that may place corresponding components of system 36 at least partially underwater, while also allowing interior cavity 42 to be filled with a lubricant, such as oil, so that mechanical components can operate in oil, as may be desired in certain applications. This configuration prevents liquid surrounding housing 38 from entering interior cavity 42, while ensuring that liquid contained within interior cavity 42 does not leak into the surrounding environment. These conditions are particularly applicable in mining applications, allowing system 36 to be implemented in mining applications, devices, or machines.

[0032] To prevent the pressure within the internal cavity 42 from exceeding a lower and / or upper threshold range, the transmission housing 38 further includes a pressure sensor 44 that communicates with the internal cavity 42 and is configured to detect the pressure within the internal cavity 42 and is communicatively coupled to a control unit 46 of the machine, which is shown here as an optional feature of the system 36. Thus, a user or operator can not only monitor the current pressure or pressure process, but can also be notified, for example by outputting an alarm, when the current pressure exceeds a predetermined tolerance.

[0033] In addition, the transmission housing 38 also includes an optional valve 48 that is configured to be actuated based on a detected pressure within the interior cavity 42 of the transmission housing 38. Although the valve 48 can be configured as a pressure relief valve to reduce and avoid excessive pressure within the interior cavity 42, according to the present embodiment, the valve 48 is configured as an electrically actuatable control valve that is communicatively coupled to the control unit 46 of the machine and is configured to be actuated based on the pressure within the interior cavity 42 of the transmission housing 38 detected by the pressure sensor 44.

[0034] Valve 48 thus ensures that overpressure, which could be harmful to the components housed within transmission housing 38, is avoided, and the pressure within the transmission housing can be vented or controlled. The actuatable control valve also ensures that the internal pressure can be adjusted even within such tolerances to optimize operating conditions, either manually or automatically with the aid of a control unit, and that the valve is operable during operation and when the machine's engine is shut down. For example, the actuatable valve can be actuated by an electronic circuit, which may be battery-operated, even when the machine is substantially inoperative, such as when the coupled combustion motor or engine is shut down. Thus, when configured as a two-way valve, post-operative cooling and / or pressure equalization can be provided, thereby preventing wear and potential damage to the internal components of the transmission.

[0035] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these embodiments and projects are merely examples of various possibilities. Therefore, the embodiments shown herein should not be construed as limiting these features and configurations. Any possible combination and configuration of the features described may be selected according to the scope of the present invention.

[0036] This is the case in particular with regard to the following optional features, which can be combined with some or all of the previously mentioned embodiments, items and / or features in any technically feasible combination.

[0037] A drive connection may be provided for coupling the engine to a gearbox of the machine.

[0038] The drive connection includes a housing having an internal cavity extending from a first open end of the housing to a second open end of the housing and configured to accommodate and enclose a clutch. The housing defines a first coupling interface at the first open end for coupling the drive connection to an engine or motor, and a second coupling interface at the second open end for coupling the drive connection to a transmission. Each coupling interface further includes a sealing member, wherein the housing and the sealing member are configured to fluidically seal the internal cavity when the drive connection is in a coupled state.

[0039] Thus, the drive connection may form an interface between the motor and the gearbox, wherein the interior space forms a through-hole, which may be substantially defined by the outer wall and includes two open ends for receiving corresponding coupling elements of the motor and gearbox, respectively. Thus, the housing may house a clutch to provide a torque coupling between the motor and gearbox, such that the drive connection may also be formed as a clutch housing.

[0040] Furthermore, the housing of the drive connection can form a support for the motor, so that in the coupled state, the motor is supported only on one end, with the drive connection forming a bearing. Thus, the drive connection and in particular its housing can provide sufficient structural stability so that the motor can be assembled with one end of the motor free.

[0041] These coupling interfaces can be adapted to the motor coupling interface and the gearbox coupling interface accordingly to provide a securely fixed attachment when assembled. For example, each coupling interface can include one or more holes for receiving bolts or set screws so that the drive connection can be connected and fixed to the motor and gearbox in a preferably releasable manner.

[0042] In addition, these sealing members can be accommodated or received by these coupling interfaces. For example, sealing member can be formed as an elastic gasket or a flat seal, which is arranged in the corresponding groove of the corresponding coupling interface and completely surrounds the corresponding opening. Each coupling interface can also include one or more recesses to accommodate preformed or molded sealing members and / or can include grooves that are suitable for receiving, for example, an O-ring as a sealing member. In this case, these sealing members can be both suitable for the size of the coupling interface of the drive connection and suitable for the size of the coupling interface of the motor and / or gearbox.

[0043] The use of such a sealing member also has the advantage that the size can be varied according to operating conditions and requirements and can also be easily replaced during servicing or when wear or brittleness is detected. Alternatively, the coupling interface can have a fully integrated sealing member or can even consist of the sealing member, for example by at least partially providing an integrated elastomeric material.

[0044] Thus, when the drive connection is properly assembled, each sealing member is compressed by the corresponding coupling interface of the motor and gearbox, providing a fluid-tight seal toward the openings. Because the housing and the inner cavity only include two openings, both openings are sealed during assembly. Therefore, no fluid, particularly liquid, can leak into the inner cavity of the housing, thereby protecting the components contained therein. Consequently, water and / or dirt from the surrounding environment cannot penetrate the machinery, such as the clutch and motor, thereby preventing damage.

[0045] For the same reason, no fluids or liquids can escape from the inner chamber, so that the oil can remain completely in the drive connection and an oil-operated clutch can therefore be installed.

[0046] Preferably, the drive connection is configured to couple the engine and gearbox of a mining machine. As mentioned above, such mining machines are often used in underground conditions, such as in longwall systems, where humid and dusty environments are common. Furthermore, the drive connection, and indeed the motor and / or gearbox, may operate at least partially underwater, depending on, for example, the geographic location and the mining methods used. Therefore, the configuration of the drive connection and sealing components ensures that the machine is protected from any harmful external influences and can therefore operate under a wide range of conditions. Due to the specific requirements of such mining machines, such fluid sealing has previously been impossible.

[0047] The coupling interfaces can be arranged at opposite ends of the housing in the axial direction, such that when the drive connection is in the coupled state, the drive connection is arranged between the engine or motor and the gearbox. Although the ends of the housing can generally be arranged at an angle to each other, this arrangement provides a direct shaft extension and torque transmission while ensuring that forces act on the sealing member and the coupling interface in the same manner. Furthermore, it is conceivable that, for example, the coupling interfaces of the gearbox and the motor are also coupled to each other by, for example, an extension, so that in this case the drive connection can be sandwiched between the motor and the gearbox, thereby further facilitating sealing.

[0048] To further promote fluid-tightness of the drive connection, these coupling interfaces may include a geometry that matches the geometry of a coupling interface of the engine or motor and / or a coupling interface of the gearbox.

[0049] For example, the coupling interfaces can be shaped, for example, by one or more keys, protrusions, and / or recesses, such that the coupling interface is at least partially accommodated or received by a corresponding coupling interface of the motor or gearbox. This geometry can further bias the corresponding sealing member into a predetermined position, thereby ensuring that a proper seal can be provided when the drive connection is coupled. Thus, the geometry can not only ensure that the drive connection and motor are correctly positioned relative to each other, but also ensure that sealing occurs in a predetermined manner.

[0050] To further assist in proper coupling and alignment of the drive connection relative to the motor and / or gearbox, each coupling interface may include a plurality of alignment pins configured to be received by corresponding recesses of the coupling interface of the engine and / or the coupling interface of the gearbox.

[0051] The matching geometry and the provision of alignment pins (e.g., bolts) have the advantage that the drive connection and the motor and gearbox can be completely adapted to one another to provide an optimal fluid seal without the need for welding. This significantly reduces the coupling and assembly effort while providing sufficient structural stability that is reproducible and, moreover, allows for easy replacement by separating the corresponding components, for example, by loosening fixing screws.

[0052] The drive connection housing may further include at least one closure member movable between a closed position sealing the internal cavity and an open position for receiving a chain tensioner or low-speed gear. Alternatively or additionally, the housing may include at least one speed sensor in communication with the internal cavity and communicatively coupled to a control unit of the machine.

[0053] The closure element can, for example, be formed as a flap that is pivotable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the sealing member can surround the opening of the inner cavity such that, in the closed position, the flap compresses the entire sealing member toward the outer wall of the housing of the drive connection in order to fluidically seal the inner cavity. Thus, a chain tensioner or a low-speed gear can be coupled to the machine, for example to a shaft or gear that can be formed to compress the sealing member of the closure element in a fluid-tight manner.

[0054] For similar reasons, a speed sensor can be integrated into the inner cavity in a fluid-tight manner, for example, via the outer wall of the housing. Such a speed sensor can, for example, communicate with a toothed wheel or gear. The communication interface can also ensure that the detected speed or signal is transmitted to the machine's control unit, for example, via corresponding wiring and / or circuitry.

[0055] Preferably, the drive connection includes two closure members arranged in a mirror-image arrangement along the circumference of the housing in the axial direction. In other words, the closure members can be provided in a symmetrical manner, for example, on radially opposite sides. This allows for the integration of additional components into the drive connection, while providing greater structural and configuration flexibility by allowing components to be coupled on different sides of the drive connection, for example, depending on orientation and machine requirements.

[0056] To ensure uniform distribution and flushness of the sealing member with the connection interface, the sealing member is preferably formed as a sealing ring of a non-metallic material, preferably a resilient polymer or elastomer. Thus, compressive forces generated, for example, by the securing of a set screw, can bias the sealing member toward the drive connection and the motor and gearbox coupling interfaces, respectively, thereby providing a uniform seal along the respective open ends. For example, the sealing member can be formed from a silicone-based or rubber material configured to have the necessary compressive strength to provide a secure fit and an adequate fluid seal.

[0057] Since the sealing of the inner cavity not only ensures that the liquid does not penetrate the inner cavity, but also ensures that the liquid does not leak out of the inner cavity, the housing may further include one or more plugs for receiving liquid lubricant in the inner cavity of the housing and / or discharging liquid lubricant from the inner cavity, wherein when the drive connection is in the coupled state, the one or more plugs are arranged at an area corresponding to the maximum liquid level in the inner cavity and / or at an area corresponding to the minimum liquid level in the inner cavity.

[0058] For example, in a gravitational field and when the drive connection is in its intended coupled state, one or more plugs can be arranged on the top and bottom sides of the housing of the drive connection. This allows lubricant to be easily filled into the inner cavity and drained without spillage, while ensuring that the entire inner cavity is filled with lubricant. For example, the inner cavity can be filled with oil, allowing a clutch housed therein to operate in oil, as may be required by the corresponding machine configuration.

[0059] In addition, the drive connection can include one or more sensors that are in communication with the inner cavity and are configured to detect the temperature, fluid level, and / or pressure within the inner cavity and are communicatively coupled to the machine's control unit. Thus, the conditions within the drive connection can be determined and provided as feedback to the machine's control unit, allowing monitoring of the machine and detection of any critical conditions. For example, while oil may not leak from the inner surface, it may be transferred to the connected gearbox or motor, which may reduce fluid levels and require the introduction of additional oil via, for example, a corresponding top plug in the housing. For similar reasons, the temperature and pressure within the inner cavity may fluctuate due to operation and may require manual intervention by the user or operator. By providing such sensors and monitoring, the air outlet valve can be omitted, thereby achieving improved airtightness while allowing operating conditions to be monitored and maintained within tolerances.

[0060] Fluid sealing, particularly with respect to liquids such as water and oil, therefore offers the advantage that the drive connection can operate under various conditions, particularly in underground mining conditions, without compromising or damaging the internal mechanics. At the same time, the provision of one or more sensors ensures that operating conditions are monitored, so that, due to the closed system, potentially harmful operating conditions do not develop and are maintained within predetermined tolerances.

[0061] Therefore, a system is also proposed, comprising a transmission housing for a machine and a drive connection as described above, wherein the drive connection is coupled to a corresponding coupling interface of the transmission housing, and wherein the transmission housing defines an internal cavity for receiving a gear or a transmission and is formed as a continuous enclosure that fluidically seals the internal cavity. The transmission housing also includes a pressure sensor in communication with the internal cavity, the pressure sensor being configured to detect the pressure within the internal cavity and communicatively coupled to a control unit of the machine.

[0062] The gearbox housing thus makes it possible to completely enclose the transmission system or gear in a fluid-tight manner, thereby protecting the components housed within the housing and / or any connected devices from, for example, water and / or oil. Thus, the penetration of liquids, dust and / or dirt that may be present in the surrounding environment is avoided. The system can therefore operate under various external conditions and can be suitable for underground mining applications, such as longwall mining systems. Furthermore, in this regard, the continuous enclosure makes it possible to omit the use of a breathing filter, thereby avoiding clogging of said filter due to external factors. The continuous enclosure and the lack of any breathing filter thus ensure that the operation of the system is not impaired by external factors and can be performed in a substantially predetermined manner, while avoiding damage to the components of the machine. Moreover, this makes it possible to fill the gearbox with a lubricant, such as oil, which is required for the gears housed in the inner cavity of the gearbox housing, and ensures that this lubricant remains in the inner cavity and does not leak into the surrounding environment.

[0063] The pressure sensor, which may be housed within the housing, also ensures that pressure deviations are detected and can be provided as feedback to the machine's control unit. This feedback can, for example, be displayed on a corresponding monitor or display screen of the machine, providing the user or operator with an overview of the machine's current operating status and condition.

[0064] Preferably, the system comprises a control unit configured to monitor the pressure in the gearbox cavity and to output an alarm, preferably via a coupled user interface, when the detected pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0065] For example, one or more predefined threshold values ​​may be stored in the control unit or provided to the control unit, such that the detected internal pressure may be compared with said threshold values, wherein an exceeding of said threshold value may indicate, for example, an inadmissibly high pressure buildup in the system, such that a user may be requested to intervene, for example by adjusting the operating conditions of the machine and / or temporarily pausing a specific process.

[0066] Additionally, the transmission housing may include at least one valve configured to actuate based on a detected pressure within an interior cavity of the transmission housing.

[0067] Preferably, the valve is configured as a pressure reducing valve or an electrically actuable control valve, configured to be communicatively coupled to a control unit of the machine and actuated based on the pressure in the inner cavity of the transmission housing detected by a pressure sensor. For example, the valve may be configured as a solenoid valve and / or a two-way valve.

[0068] This valve thus ensures that overpressure, which could be harmful to the components housed within the housing, is avoided. In other words, the pressure within the transmission housing can be controlled by exhaust. While a pressure relief valve can be adapted to equalize or reduce the pressure within the interior of the transmission housing to a value within a predetermined tolerance range, an electrically actuatable control valve also ensures that the internal pressure can be adjusted even without exceeding this tolerance range, in order to optimize operating conditions manually or automatically with the aid of a control unit.

[0069] This also allows the valve to be actuated to increase the pressure within the inner cavity, for example when configured as a two-way valve, in the event of a pressure deficit, which may be caused by the operation of the system and the gearbox. Providing the valve as an actuatable valve also ensures that the valve is not actuated if the gearbox is, for example, at least partially submerged, thereby preventing any liquid or fluid from penetrating the inner cavity and potentially causing damage to the machinery. Furthermore, the actuatable valve ensures that airflow can be temporarily and / or periodically provided to the inner cavity for cooling purposes. These functions are preferably automatically controlled by the control unit via integrated control logic, but can also be manually controlled, allowing an operator to manually intervene, for example in the event of a malfunction or emergency.

[0070] The valve may also be configured to be operable during operation and in an off state of the engine of the machine.

[0071] For example, even after the machine has been shut down, the pressure relief valve can still be actuated by the internal pressure in the inner chamber. For similar reasons, the actuatable valve can be actuated by an electronic circuit, which can be battery-operated, even when the machine is substantially inoperative, such as when the coupled combustion motor or engine is shut down. This can provide postoperative cooling and pressure equalization, thereby preventing wear and potential damage to the internal components of the transmission.

[0072] During operation, the one or more valves can also be configured to avoid under- or over-pressure conditions within the transmission housing, for example. As described above, this can depend on the current position of the machine or system component, for example, based on the current water level and / or activity or process of the machine, such as the current excavation step during a continuous process. To provide an increased level of flexibility with respect to operating conditions, the one or more valves can also be fluidly connected to one or more closable conduits or vents, allowing actuation of the actuatable valves even under submerged operating conditions and under under-pressure conditions within the internal cavity of the transmission housing.

[0073] From the above, it will also be apparent that the gearbox housing of the system can also be used and sold without a coupled drive connection and independently of the system, i.e. as a separate component, which can be coupled to the motor directly or via an optional drive connection, depending on the machine configuration and the respective requirements.

[0074] Industrial Applicability

[0075] With reference to the accompanying drawings, a drive connection for coupling an engine to a gearbox of a machine and a system equipped with such a drive connection are proposed. The proposed drive connection can be applied to any mining equipment, such as longwall mining systems or roof support systems, in which the machine requires a drive connection, particularly where a clutch is present between the motor and the gearbox. The fluid-tight seal and configuration of the coupling interface allow the drive connection to be adapted to the coupling interface of the motor and the gearbox, and preferably a simple and releasable fixing device is provided, so that components of the machine can be easily replaced and do not require soft soldering or welding for structural stability or fluid-tight sealing. The drive connection, motor, and gearbox can also be produced by the same manufacturer, so that the drive connection is fully adapted to couple the motor and gearbox. In addition, the drive connection can replace conventional welded and / or non-fluid-tight drive connections as a replacement or retrofit component, which can be replaced, for example, during maintenance.

Claims

1. A drive connection (10) for coupling an engine to a gearbox of a machine, comprising: a housing (12) having an interior cavity (14) extending from a first open end (16) of the housing (12) to a second open end (18) of the housing (12) and configured to receive and enclose a clutch, a sensor in communication with the inner cavity and configured to detect pressure within the inner cavity and communicatively coupled to a control unit of the machine, wherein the housing (12) defines a first coupling interface (20) at the first open end (16) for coupling the drive connection (10) to an engine, and defines a second coupling interface (22) at the second open end (18) for coupling the drive connection (10) to a gearbox, Each of the first coupling interface (20) and the second coupling interface (22) includes a sealing member (24), and wherein the housing (12) and the sealing member (24) are configured to fluidly seal the inner cavity (14) when the drive connection (10) is in a coupled state.

2. The drive connection (10) of claim 1, wherein the drive connection (10) is configured for coupling an engine and a gearbox of a mining machine.

3. A drive connection (10) according to claim 1, wherein the first coupling interface (20) and the second coupling interface (22) are arranged at opposite ends of the housing in an axial direction (26), such that when the drive connection (10) is in the coupled state, the drive connection (10) is arranged between the engine and the gearbox.

4. A drive connection (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein the first coupling interface (20) and the second coupling interface (22) comprise a geometry that matches the geometry of the coupling interface of the engine and / or the coupling interface of the gearbox.

5. The drive connection (10) according to claim 4, wherein each first coupling interface (20) and second coupling interface (22) comprises a plurality of alignment pins (32), which are configured to be received by corresponding recesses of the coupling interface of the engine and / or the coupling interface of the gearbox.

6. A drive connection (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein the housing (12) comprises at least one closure member (34) which is movable between a closed position sealing the inner cavity (14) and an open position for receiving a chain tensioner or a low-speed gear, and / or wherein the housing (12) comprises at least one speed sensor (30) which is in communication with the inner cavity (14) and is communicatively coupled to a control unit of the machine.

7. Drive connection (10) according to claim 6, comprising two closure elements (34) which are arranged in a mirror-image arrangement in the axial direction (26) at the circumference of the housing (12).

8. Drive connection (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-3, wherein the sealing member (24) is formed as a sealing ring of a non-metallic material, which is an elastic polymer material.

9. A drive connection (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein the housing (12) includes one or more plugs for receiving liquid lubricant in the inner cavity (14) of the housing (12) and / or discharging liquid lubricant from the inner cavity (14), wherein when the drive connection (10) is in the coupled state, the one or more plugs are arranged at an area corresponding to a maximum liquid level in the inner cavity (14) or at an area corresponding to a minimum liquid level in the inner cavity (14).

10. The drive connection (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-3 comprises one or more additional sensors, which are connected to the inner cavity (14) and are configured to detect the temperature and liquid level in the inner cavity (14) and are communicatively connected to the control unit of the machine.

11. A system (36) comprising a gearbox housing (38) for a machine and a drive connection (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 10 coupled to a corresponding coupling interface (40) of the gearbox housing (38), wherein the gearbox housing (38) defines an inner cavity (42) for receiving a gear or a transmission and is formed as a continuous enclosure fluidically sealing the inner cavity (42) of the gearbox housing (38), wherein the gearbox housing (38) includes a pressure sensor (44) communicating with the inner cavity (42) of the gearbox housing (38) and configured to detect a pressure within the inner cavity (42) of the gearbox housing (38) and communicatively coupled to a control unit (46) of the machine.

12. The system (36) of claim 11, comprising a control unit (44) configured to monitor the pressure in the interior cavity (42) of the transmission housing (38) and output an alarm via a coupled user interface when the detected pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold.

13. The system (36) of claim 11 or 12, wherein the transmission housing (38) includes at least one valve (48) configured to be actuated based on a detected pressure in the interior cavity (42) of the transmission housing (38).

14. The system (36) of claim 13, wherein the valve (48) is configured as a pressure relief valve that is communicatively coupled to a control unit (46) of the machine and actuated based on the pressure in the interior cavity (42) of the transmission housing (38) detected by the pressure sensor (44).

15. The system (36) of claim 13, wherein the valve (48) is configured as an electrically actuatable control valve configured to be communicatively coupled to a control unit (46) of the machine and to be actuated based on the pressure in the interior cavity (42) of the transmission housing (38) detected by the pressure sensor (44).

16. The system (36) of claim 13, wherein the valve (48) is configured as a solenoid valve configured to be communicatively coupled to a control unit (46) of the machine and to be actuated based on the pressure in the interior cavity (42) of the transmission housing (38) detected by the pressure sensor (44).

17. The system (36) of claim 13, wherein the valve is a two-way valve configured to be communicatively coupled to a control unit (46) of the machine and to actuate based on the pressure in the interior cavity (42) of the transmission housing (38) detected by the pressure sensor (44).

18. The system (36) of claim 13, wherein the valve (48) is configured to be operable during operation and in an off state of an engine of the machine.

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