Quick-action clamping device and related method, granulating device and clamping lever

Abstract

A quick-acting clamping device, particularly a single-hand quick-acting clamping device (8, 108), is used to clamp a first component (36, 136) of a granulating device (2, 102) to a second component (38, 138) of the granulating device (2, 102), particularly to clamp a granulator (4, 104) to a cutting chamber (6, 106). Mounting elements (44, 144) arranged at a first assembly (36, 136) or a second assembly (38, 138), locking elements (40, 140) arranged at another location in the first assembly (36, 136) or the second assembly (38, 138), and clamping mechanisms (10, 110) having clamping elements (32, 132) rotatably mounted to the mounting elements (44, 144) about a rotation axis (D), and the clamping elements (32, 132) are adapted to pivot to a clamping position (S) in which the clamping elements (32, 132) engage with the locking elements (40, 140) and support the first assembly (36, 136) on the second assembly (38, 138). A granulation apparatus (8, 108) and a method for supporting a granulator (4, 104) to a cutting chamber (6, 106) are also disclosed.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of European Patent Application No. 20176919.7, filed on 27 May 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein for any and all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a quick-acting clamping device, particularly a single-handed quick-acting clamping device, for clamping a first component of a granulating apparatus to a second component of the granulating apparatus, particularly clamping the granulator to a cutting chamber or clamping the cutting chamber to an orifice plate. The invention also relates to a support method and a clamping rod. Background Technology

[0004] Clamping devices for supporting components of a granulation apparatus (particularly granulators with cutting chambers or cutting chambers with perforated plates) are known in the prior art.

[0005] In granulation equipment, the components of the granulator and the cutting chamber are typically designed to be separable from each other, in particular to allow the granulation equipment to adapt to different materials to be processed and to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. For this purpose, it has proven effective to arrange the granulator movably on, for example, a track system, while the cutting chamber is typically fixed in place.

[0006] In this regard, it is particularly important to securely connect the components serving as the granulator and the cutting chamber during operation, as high pressure is generated during the operation of the granulation device, which causes the components to move away from each other. To prevent this, clamping devices are known from the prior art.

[0007] Such clamping devices typically have multiple enclosed clamping devices installed by the operator while the operator pushes the granulator in the direction of the cutting chamber. Clamping devices with enclosed clamping devices are also known for reversibly supporting the perforated plate cutting chamber of the granulating device.

[0008] Although such closed clamping devices have proven to be effective and secure in connecting the components of a pelletizing unit, there is still room for improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0009] A disadvantage of previously known structures in the prior art is that, in particular, the operator must perform multiple sequences of movements and positional changes, for example, pushing the granulator in the direction of the cutting chamber and then installing the multiple enclosed clamping devices.

[0010] In view of the above background, the object of the present invention is to develop a clamping device of the type described in the opening portion of this specification in order to overcome as much as possible the disadvantages encountered in the prior art. In particular, the present invention seeks to provide a clamping device that facilitates the connection and support of components of a granulation apparatus.

[0011] According to the invention, in a clamping device of the type mentioned above, this objective is achieved by a mounting element disposed at a first component or a second component, a locking element disposed at another location in the first component or the second component, and a clamping mechanism having a clamping element, wherein the clamping element is rotatably mounted to the mounting element about a rotation axis and is adapted to pivot to a clamping position in which the clamping element engages with the locking element and supports the first component on the second component support.

[0012] This invention utilizes the understanding that the process of connecting and supporting components via the quick-acting clamping device according to the invention can be significantly simplified. Compared to previously known structures in the art, moving the clamping mechanism to the clamping position and securely supporting the components, particularly supporting the granulator to the cutting chamber, requires only a single movement.

[0013] In the same simple way, the support state is reversed by moving the clamping mechanism in the opposite direction, so that the components can be separated from each other for purposes such as performing maintenance tasks.

[0014] The present invention provides a quick-acting clamping device having a second mounting element arranged in the same assembly as a first mounting element and a second locking element arranged in the same assembly as a first locking element, wherein the clamping mechanism has a second clamping element rotatably mounted to the second mounting element about a second rotation axis, and the second clamping element is adapted to pivot together with the first clamping element to a clamping position, in which the second clamping element engages with the second locking element.

[0015] It has been found that this redundant arrangement of the basic components of the quick-acting clamping device (i.e., mounting element, locking element, and clamping element) improves operational reliability and safety. In the unlikely event of a failure in one component, the redundant design ensures that the granulation unit components remain securely connected during operation. Furthermore, the support operation and the release of the clamped state can be easily achieved through a single movement of the clamping mechanism coupled to the two clamping elements. Additionally, the arrangement of the second clamping element advantageously allows for the uniform application of clamping force to support the components. This further provides a sealed connection between the components, particularly preventing fluid leakage.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the clamping mechanism further includes a clamping rod connected to at least one clamping element for actuating the at least one clamping element. This clamping rod has been found particularly advantageous for applications where the connection and support of components are manually achieved by the operator. Depending on the arrangement of the clamping rod, it can be moved not only to support the component itself but also to move the pelletizer in the direction of the cutting chamber.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one clamping element has a hook adapted to engage with a locking element when the clamping element pivots to the clamping position, and to support the locking element on the clamping element in the clamping position. The hook performs a dual function. On one hand, it ensures that the locking element is supported on the clamping element in the clamping position, and on the other hand, once the hook engages with the locking element, it also serves to press the components together. Thus, the operator is supported not only when locking the components but also when connecting the components together before applying the supporting action.

[0018] Preferably, the hook portion has a hook bottom, wherein the hook bottom has a configuration corresponding to the outer cross-section of the locking element. In this way, the hook bottom ensures that sufficient clamping force is transmitted and reliably holds the locking element in the clamped position.

[0019] A further development of the invention provides that the hook portion has a first arm and a second arm, wherein the arm extends from the bottom of the hook and forms a hook opening, and wherein the hook opening forms a free cross section between the arms, the free cross section expanding from the bottom of the hook in the direction of the arm.

[0020] This arm or hook configuration has proven particularly advantageous for pressing the components together when the locking element engages with the hook. In other words, the locking element is guided to the clamping position by the geometry of the hook, which makes it easier for the operator to perform the operation of engaging the components and allows engagement and subsequent clamping to be performed by a single movement of the clamping mechanism or clamping lever.

[0021] In a preferred development, the first and / or second arm has a thickened portion arranged adjacent to the bottom of the hook and adapted to retain the locking element in the clamped position. When the clamping mechanism pivots to the clamped position, the thickened portion moves past the locking element, and in the clamped position, the locking element is securely held in the region of the hook bottom, and the clamping mechanism is securely held in the clamped position without applying any force. In an alternative embodiment, the arm has an angled configuration, particularly a small angle, such that it self-locks the locking element in the clamped position.

[0022] Preferably, the clamping element further has an eccentric portion, which is configured such that when the clamping element is removed from the clamping position, the eccentric portion applies a force to the locking element, thereby separating the first component from the second component. This preferred embodiment utilizes the understanding that, with respect to a granulation apparatus, an operator may apply significant force to the granulator to separate it from the cutting chamber for maintenance tasks, etc. The eccentric portion provides that, when the clamping element is removed from the clamping position, a force separating the components from each other is applied to the locking element.

[0023] A further development of the invention provides that the eccentric portion has a centroid of area corresponding to the axis of rotation of the clamping element. More preferably, one arm of the arm is provided by the eccentric portion.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, in this region of the arm adjacent to the hook bottom, the eccentric portion has a first radius related to the area centroid, which increases with increasing distance from the hook bottom along the arm, particularly linearly or non-linearly.

[0025] The operating force applied by the operator to the clamping mechanism can be transmitted as needed according to the design of the eccentric portion. Therefore, for example, a slight increase in the radius along the arm, or in other words, a slight tilt of the eccentric portion, results in a greater force being applied to the mounting element for a given travel distance and the force used to move the clamping mechanism, but the mounting element is only propelled a short distance away from its axis of rotation. With the same force applied to the clamping mechanism and the same travel distance, a greater tilt of the eccentric portion results in the locking element being propelled further away from its axis of rotation, but only a smaller force is transmitted to the locking element.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the locking element and / or mounting element are in the form of a pin. In this case, the locking element and mounting element preferably include the same geometry. This improves the interoperability of the components.

[0027] The present invention provides a quick-acting clamping device having a drive mechanism for driving the clamping mechanism, wherein the drive mechanism particularly comprises at least one of the following or is composed of at least one of the following: an electric motor, a hydraulic actuator, or a pneumatic actuator, the pneumatic actuator particularly comprising a cylinder actuator and / or a rotary actuator. For applications where the components do not require manual connection and / or support, providing a drive mechanism for driving the clamping mechanism has proven advantageous.

[0028] Preferably, the quick-acting clamping device has a sensor device for sensing the position of the clamping mechanism. In a preferred embodiment, the sensor device is arranged at the granulator and / or adapted to generate a signal when the clamping mechanism is in the clamping position and / or out of the clamping position.

[0029] In an alternative embodiment, the sensor device is connected to a control device of the granulation apparatus via a signal transmission relationship, wherein the control device is adapted to stop the granulation apparatus when the clamping mechanism moves out of the clamping position. More preferably, the control device is adapted to start the granulation apparatus after the clamping mechanism has moved to the clamping position.

[0030] In another preferred embodiment, the quick-acting clamping device has a locking mechanism, particularly an electromechanical locking mechanism, adapted to hold the clamping mechanism in the clamped position and / or release it from the clamped position. This prevents the clamping mechanism from accidentally moving out of the clamped position during operation of the granulation unit.

[0031] A favorable development provides that the clamping lever has two spaced-apart clamping arms and a handle connecting the clamping arms. The two clamping arms provide a mechanically particularly strong and reliable holding action, and the quick-acting clamping device can be operated very easily and efficiently via the handle.

[0032] If the clamping lever (especially its two spaced-apart clamping lever arms) has a first clamping lever portion connected to the clamping element, a second clamping lever portion extending at an angle relative to the first clamping lever portion, and preferably a third clamping lever portion extending at an angle relative to the second clamping lever portion (the handle is fixed to the distal end of the third clamping lever portion), then a compact yet powerful connection with one of the components is advantageous. The angle can be preferably selected such that the lever allows for the application of good torque, and at the same time, preferably good mechanical actuation is possible, with sufficient space and without the hand being jammed.

[0033] If the clamping rod is pivotally mounted to the first or second component of the granulation apparatus such that the clamping rod moves beyond the dead point in a toggle manner during clamping operations and / or self-locking clamping occurs thereafter, then reliable and secure support is particularly advantageous.

[0034] The invention has been described above with reference to a quick-clamping device. In another aspect, the invention relates to a granulation apparatus for producing granules from a melt stream, comprising a granulator and a cutting chamber.

[0035] The present invention achieves the objectives related to the granulation device described at the beginning of this specification through a granulation device having a quick-acting clamping device having a clamping mechanism for supporting the granulator and the cutting chamber.

[0036] The present invention provides that the quick-acting clamping device is designed according to one of the preferred embodiments described above.

[0037] The granulation apparatus utilizes the same advantages and preferred construction as the quick-acting clamping device according to the invention. In this regard, note the foregoing description, the contents of which are incorporated herein.

[0038] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for supporting a first component of a granulation apparatus to a second component of the granulation apparatus, particularly a method for supporting a granulator to a cutting chamber or a cutting chamber to an orifice plate.

[0039] The present invention achieves the method-related objectives described at the beginning of this specification through the following steps: providing a first component, particularly a granulator or perforated plate; providing a second component, particularly a cutting chamber; and supporting the first component to the second component by a quick-acting clamping device, wherein the quick-acting clamping device is designed according to one of the embodiments shown and described above.

[0040] This invention utilizes the same advantages and preferred embodiments as the quick-acting clamping device according to the invention. In this regard, note the foregoing description, the contents of which are incorporated herein.

[0041] An advantageous development of the method provides that the clamping mechanism is actuated by a clamping rod connected to the at least one clamping element, and the clamping rod is pivotally mounted to a first or second component of the granulation apparatus in an elbow manner, and rotates beyond the dead point for a supporting effect, thereby achieving a self-locking supporting effect.

[0042] In another advantageous development of the release clamping action, a force is applied to the locking element, thereby releasing the first component from the second component, preferably at least slightly spaced apart from the second component.

[0043] According to another aspect of achieving this objective, the invention also relates to a clamping rod connectable to a clamping element for actuating the clamping element of the quick-acting clamping device according to the invention, to support a first component of the granulating apparatus to a second component of the granulating apparatus. According to the invention, the clamping rod is defined as having two spaced-apart clamping rod arms and a handle connecting the clamping rod arms.

[0044] In addition, or alternatively, it has been proposed that the clamping bar (especially its two spaced-apart clamping bar arms) has a first clamping bar portion connected to the clamping element and a second clamping bar portion extending at an angle relative to the first clamping bar portion.

[0045] For further advantages and preferred features of the clamping element, please refer to the foregoing and the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0046] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and by way of example preferred embodiments.

[0047] In the attached diagram:

[0048] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view of the first embodiment is shown, taking the granulation apparatus according to the present invention as an example.

[0049] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram shown is a plan view of an embodiment of the granulation apparatus according to the present invention.

[0050] Figure 4 It shows Figures 1 to 3 Detailed view of the cutting chamber of the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 5 A perspective view of the clamping element according to the invention of the first embodiment is shown.

[0052] Figure 6 A detailed perspective view of the granulation apparatus according to the invention based on the first embodiment is shown.

[0053] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the granulation apparatus according to the present invention is shown.

[0054] Figure 9 It shows Figure 7 and Figure 8 The diagram shown is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the granulation apparatus according to the present invention.

[0055] Figure 10 It shows Figures 7 to 9 Detailed view of the cutting chamber in an alternative embodiment,

[0056] Figure 11 A perspective view of the clamping element according to the invention, based on an alternative embodiment, is shown.

[0057] Figure 12 A detailed perspective view of the granulation apparatus according to the invention, based on an alternative embodiment, is shown, and

[0058] Figure 13 Another alternative embodiment of the quick-acting clamping device according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0059] Figure 1 A granulation apparatus 2 for producing granules from a melt stream is shown. The granulation apparatus 2 has a granulator 4 and a cutting chamber 6. The cutting chamber 6 is fixedly arranged. The granulator 4 is movably arranged on a granulator track 12, such that the granulator 4 can move in the direction of the cutting chamber 6 and can be connected to the cutting chamber 6.

[0060] The granulator 4 has a base 22 on which a housing 24 is disposed. A base plate 26 is disposed on the top side of the housing 24, and a machine carrier 30 is disposed on the base plate 26 by spacer elements 28. A driver 14 for driving the cutting blade 34 is disposed on the machine carrier 30. The granulator 4 also has a protective cover 16. The granulator 4 is the first component 36.

[0061] Locking elements 40, 40' are arranged on the granulator 4, particularly in the area where the granulator 4 is connected to the cutting chamber 6. Locking elements 40, 40' are part of the quick-acting clamping device 8.

[0062] The cutting chamber 6 is the second component 38. The cutting chamber 6 has an inlet 20 for process water and an outlet 18 for both process water and particles. Granulation and cutting of the supplied melt are carried out in the cutting chamber 6, in which both process water and particles are discharged from the cutting chamber 6 through the outlet 18.

[0063] The clamping mechanism 10 is arranged at the cutting chamber 6. The clamping mechanism 10 has a clamping element 32. The clamping element 32 is rotatably mounted to the mounting element 44 (see [reference]). Figure 3 The clamping mechanism 10 has a clamping rod 42 connected to the clamping element 32.

[0064] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The granulating device 2, wherein the clamping mechanism 10 is located in the clamping position S. In the clamping position S, the granulator 4 is supported to the cutting chamber 6 by the quick-acting clamping device 8. In this case, the clamping element 32 engages with the locking element 40 and supports the first component 36 on the second component 38. Further details in this regard are as follows: Figure 3 As shown in the image.

[0065] Figure 3 A plan view of the granulation apparatus 2, including the granulator 4 and the cutting chamber 6, is shown. (See diagram from...) Figure 3 As can be seen, on the top side of the granulator 4, in the area adjacent to the cutting blade 34, the granulator 4 has a locking element 40, which has an outer cross-section indicated by 41. The locking element 40 is in the form of a pin 45. A clamping element 32, arranged in the cutting chamber 6, is rotatably mounted on a mounting element 44 about a rotation axis D. A clamping rod 42 is connected to the clamping element 32. Pivoting movement of the clamping rod 42 causes the clamping element 32 connected to the clamping rod 42 to rotate about a rotation axis D. The mounting element 44 is arranged at a pin retainer 46 connected to the cutting chamber 6. The clamping element 32 is adapted to engage with the locking element 40 after the granulator 4 has moved in the direction of the cutting chamber 6 and pivots to Figure 2 The clamping position S is shown.

[0066] Figure 4 A perspective view of the cutting chamber 6 is shown. The cutting chamber 6 has the basic components of a quick-acting clamping device 8. The quick-acting clamping device 8 has a first clamping element 32 and a second clamping element 32'. The two clamping elements 32, 32' are connected to the clamping rod 42 by connecting screws 48. Movement of the clamping rod 42 also causes movement of the two clamping elements 32, 32'.

[0067] As already regarding Figure 3As described, clamping element 32 is mounted to mounting element 44 about rotation axis D. Mounting element 44 is arranged on pin retainer 46. Clamping element 32' is rotatably mounted to mounting element 44 about rotation axis (not shown). Clamping elements 32 and 32' each have a corresponding hook portion 50. In addition, clamping elements 32 and 32' have an eccentric portion 52. The eccentric portion 52 has a configuration that allows the clamping elements 32 and 32' to be removed from the mounting element 44. Figure 2 When the clamping position S is shown, the eccentric portion applies a force to the locking elements 40, 40'. As a result, the first component 36 separates from the second component 38 (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0068] Figure 5 Clamping elements 32 and 32' are shown. Clamping elements 32 and 32' can be connected to clamping rod 42 via threaded hole 54 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 4 Alternatively, clamping elements 32, 32' and clamping rod 42 can be formed as a single piece. Clamping elements 32, 32' have a hook portion 50. The hook portion 50 is formed by a hook base 56 and a first arm 58 and a second arm 58'. Arms 58, 58' define a hook opening 60. The hook opening 60 forms a free cross-section d between arms 58, 58'. The free cross-section d expands from the hook base 56 in the direction of arms 58, 58'. In the present case, the first arm 58 has a thickened portion 62. The thickened portion 62 is arranged adjacent to the hook base 56. The thickened portion 62 is adapted to hold the locking element 40 (see, for example, see...) Figure 3 The first arm 58 is held in the clamped position S. Alternatively, the first arm 58 may be angled, such that the first arm 58 locks the locking element 40 (see [link to original text]) in a self-locking relationship. Figure 3 Keep it in the clamped position S.

[0069] The clamping elements 32, 32' also have an eccentric portion 52. The eccentric portion 52 is configured such that when the clamping elements 32, 32' move out of the clamping position S, the eccentric portion 52 remains in contact with the locking elements 40, 40' (see [link to locking element]). Figure 3 A force is applied to the eccentric portion 52. The eccentric portion 52 has a center of mass 64 corresponding to the axis of rotation D of the clamping elements 32, 32'. The eccentric portion 52 forms an arm 58'. In the region of the hook bottom 56, the eccentric portion 52 has a first radius r1, which is smaller than a radius r2 found further away from the hook bottom 56 on the second arm 58'. The increase in radius between radius r1 and radius r2 is linear, and optionally non-linear.

[0070] Figure 6 A detailed view shows the granulator 4 and the cutting chamber 6 in a connected but unlocked state. A sensor device 66 is arranged on the granulator 4 adjacent to the machine carrier 30. The sensor device 66 is adapted to move out of the clamping position S (see [reference]) when the clamping mechanism 10 or clamping rod 42 is removed. Figure 2A signal is generated when the clamping mechanism 10 and the clamping lever 42 are in a certain state. For example, when the clamping mechanism 10 and the clamping lever 42 are in a certain state... Figure 6 When the position is shown, the generated signal can be used to stop the granulator, start the granulator, or prevent the operation of granulator 4.

[0071] Furthermore, a locking device 68 (especially an electromechanical locking device 68) is arranged on the pelletizer 4. The locking device 68 is adapted to selectively and quickly hold or release the locking mechanism 70 arranged on the clamping bar 42. In other words, the locking device 68 ensures that when the clamping mechanism 10 is in the clamping position S and the pelletizer 4 and the cutting chamber 6 are operating, the clamping bar 42 will not, for example, accidentally move out of the clamping position S. Once the pelletizer 4 and the cutting chamber 6 are no longer operating, the locking device 68 is adapted to release the clamping bar 42, and consequently release the clamping mechanism 10. The clamping bar 42 can now be moved out of the clamping position S.

[0072] Figures 7 to 12 An alternative embodiment of the granulation apparatus 102 is shown. The granulation apparatus 102 has a granulator 104 and a cutting chamber 106. The cutting chamber 106 is fixedly arranged. The granulator 4 is movably arranged on a granulator track 112. The granulation apparatus 102 has a quick-acting clamping device 108. The quick-acting clamping device 108 has a clamping mechanism 110, which has two clamping elements 132, 132'.

[0073] and Figures 1 to 6 Unlike the first embodiment, clamping elements 132, 132' are now arranged at granulator 104. Similarly, locking elements 140, 140' (see...) Figure 9 It is now located at cutting room 106.

[0074] The granulator 104 has a base 122 and a housing 124 of known structure. A base plate 126 is disposed on the top side of the housing 124, and a machine carrier 130 is arranged above the base plate 126 and spaced apart from the base plate 126 by a spacer element 128. A driver 114 for driving the rotation of the cutting blade 134 is arranged on the machine carrier 130. The granulator 104 also has a protective cover 116. Clamping elements 132 and 132' are respectively mounted to mounting elements 144 and 144'. The clamping mechanism 110 also has a clamping rod 142 connected to the clamping elements 132 and 132' for actuating the clamping elements 132 and 132'. The granulator 104 is a first component 136; the cutting chamber 106 is a second component 138.

[0075] The cutting chamber 106 has an inlet 120 for process water and an outlet 118 for process water and particles. The inlet 120 supplies process water to the cutting chamber 106, and the process water and particles are discharged from the cutting chamber 106 through the outlet 118. Figure 7In the diagram, the granulator 104 and the cutting chamber 106 are shown as separate from each other. Maintenance operations on the granulator 104 and / or the cutting chamber 106 can be performed from the operating positions shown.

[0076] Figure 8 References are shown Figure 7 The component described is in the clamped position S. The granulator 104 is now connected to the cutting chamber 106. Clamping elements 32, 32' (see...) Figure 7 The clamping elements 132 and 132' are in the clamped position S. The clamping elements 132 and 132' and the locking elements 140 and 140' (see...) Figure 9 The first component 136 is joined together and supported to the second component 138.

[0077] Figure 9 A plan view of the granulation apparatus 102 is shown. Regarding the cutting chamber 106, a locking element 140 arranged on its top side can now be seen. The locking element 140 has an external cross-section indicated by 141. Referring to the granulator 4, components visible from above the quick-acting clamping device 108, including the clamping mechanism 110, can be seen here. The clamping element 132 is rotatably mounted to the mounting element 144 about a rotation axis D. The clamping element 132 has a hook 150. This hook 150 has a configuration corresponding to the external cross-section of the locking element 141, such that when the clamping element 132 pivots to the clamping position S, the hook 150 engages with the locking element 140 and supports the locking element 140 on the clamping element 132 in the clamping position S.

[0078] Figure 10 A detailed view of the cutting chamber 106, representing the second component 138, is shown. The cutting chamber 106 has an inlet 120 for process water and an outlet 118 for both process water and particles, in a known manner. A pin retainer 146 is arranged adjacent to the outlet 118 and the inlet 120, respectively. Corresponding locking elements 140, 140' are arranged at the pin retainer 146. Clamping elements 132, 132' (see...) Figure 12 In the clamping position S, it engages with locking elements 140 and 140'.

[0079] Figure 11 Detailed views of clamping elements 132 and 132' are shown. Clamping elements 132 and 132' have threaded holes 154 for securing them to clamping rod 142. Clamping elements 132 and 132' have hook portions 150. Hook portions 150 have hook bottoms 156, which engage with locking elements 140 (see [reference]). Figure 10The structure corresponds to the outer cross-section 141 of the hook. Locking elements 140 and 140' are in the form of pins 145. The hook portion 150 also has a first arm 158 and a second arm 158'. Arms 158 and 158' extend from the hook base 156 and form a hook opening 160. The hook opening 160 forms a free cross-section d between the arms 158 and 158'. The free cross-section d expands from the hook base 156 in the direction of the arms 158 and 158'.

[0080] The first arm 158 has a thickened portion 162. The thickened portion 162 is arranged adjacent to the hook bottom 156. The thickened portion 162 is adapted to hold the locking elements 140, 140' (see...) Figure 8 The first arm 158 is held in the clamped position S. Alternatively, the first arm 158 may have an angled configuration, particularly a small angle, such that the first arm 158 self-locks the locking elements 140, 140' (see...) Figure 8 The clamping elements 132 and 132' are held in the clamping position S. The clamping elements 132 and 132' also have an eccentric portion 152. The eccentric portion 152 is constructed such that when the clamping elements 132 and 132' move out of the clamping position S, the eccentric portion 152 remains in the locking element 140 and 140' (see...). Figure 8 Force is applied to the clamping element 132. The eccentric portion 152 has a center of mass 164 corresponding to the axis of rotation D of the clamping elements 132 and 132'. The arm 158' is formed by the eccentric portion 152.

[0081] Figure 12 The cutting chamber 106 and quick-acting clamping device 108 are shown in the connected state, but are not yet fully supported. Clamping elements 132, 132' are engaged with locking elements 140, 140' (the lower locking element 140' is not visible). When from... Figure 12 When the clamping rod 142 begins to move in the direction of the granulator 104 at the indicated position, the clamping element 132 further engages with the locking element 140 and supports the first assembly 136 to the second assembly 138. However, when the clamping rod 142 moves in the opposite direction away from the granulator 104 in the direction of the cutting chamber 106, the eccentric portion 152 of the clamping element 132 causes the locking element 140 to move away from the granulator 104. As a result, the movably mounted granulator 104 is moved away from the fixedly arranged cutting chamber 106. This facilitates the disengagement of the first assembly 136 from the second assembly 138 by the movement of the clamping rod 142.

[0082] The granulator 104 has a sensor device 166 adapted to sense the position of the clamping rod 142. Furthermore, the granulator 104 has an electromechanical locking device 168 adapted to selectively hold or release the locking mechanism 170 when the clamping mechanism 110 is in the clamping position S.

[0083] From the figure, especially Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 12 More features of the clamping rods in the two embodiments can be seen in the image. The clamping rods 42 and 142 have two spaced-apart clamping rod arms 43 and 143 and handles 47 and 147 connecting the clamping rod arms 43 and 143.

[0084] The clamping rods 42, 142, especially their two spaced-apart clamping rod arms 43, 143, have a first clamping rod portion 49, 149 connected to the clamping elements 32, 32', 132, 132' and a second clamping rod portion 51, 151 extending at an angle relative to the first clamping rod portion 49, 149, and a third clamping rod portion 53, 153 preferably extending at an angle relative to the second clamping rod portion 51, 151, and handles 47, 147 are fixed to the distal ends of the third clamping rod portion 53, 153. Therefore, the clamping rods 42, 142 are pivotally mounted to the first assembly 36, 136 or the second assembly 38, 138 of the granulation apparatus 2, 102, such that the clamping rods 42, 142 pass through the dead point in a toggle-like manner during support operation, and a self-locking support action occurs accordingly.

[0085] For example, from Figure 3 and Figure 9 As can be clearly seen, the first clamping rod portion 49 is shorter than the second clamping rod portions 51 and 151, and forms an angle of approximately 90° relative to the second clamping rod portions 51 and 151. The first clamping rod portions 49 and 149 are preferably releasably connected to the clamping elements 32, 32', 132, and 132' via threaded holes 54. The angles between the first and second clamping rod portions 49, 149, 51, and 151, as well as their respective lengths in the corresponding axial directions, can vary and exhibit different value ranges. The angles between the second clamping rod portions 49, 149, 51, and 151 and the third clamping rod portions 53 and 153 are significantly greater than 90°, falling within the range of approximately 170° in the illustrated embodiment, but an angle range between, for example, 180° and 90° can also be achieved. The third clamping rods 53 and 153 are selected such that the handles 47 and 147 fixed to the two clamping rods 49 and 149 can be easily gripped, especially in the clamping position S, allowing a hand or fingers to pass between the handles 47 and 147 and the oppositely arranged components (especially the granulators 4 and 104 or the cutting chambers 6 and 106) without getting stuck. Very roughly, in the plan view ( Figure 3 , Figure 9 The clamping arm in the figure is similar to the S-shape.

[0086] The operating modes of the method and quick-acting clamping device and its components according to the invention are further described below.

[0087] In order to support the granulators 4, 104 shown in the example to the cutting chambers 6, 106 (and other components according to the invention), the granulators 4, 104 and the cutting chambers 6, 106 are first arranged in a relative relationship to each other. Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 9 and Figure 12 Then, by actuating the quick-acting clamping device via a drive mechanism or manually, the clamping mechanisms 10, 110 engage with the locking elements 40, 140 using the clamping elements 32, 132, and the first and second components 36, 136, 38, 138 are supported relative to each other. During this rotational movement, in the illustrated embodiment, the clamping lever, designed in an elbow-like manner, passes the dead point (where the relative support is at its maximum) by actuation of the handles 47, 147, and then passes the dead point again by further rotational movement, during which the support slightly decreases. As a result, a self-locking support action is achieved in this area. In the clamped position, the handles 47, 147 are arranged with minimal spacing relative to the granulating devices 2, 102. The spacing is selected according to the above configuration so that the hand can engage between the granulating devices 2, 102 and the handles 47, 147 without getting stuck. For the purpose of release, the clamping elements 32, 32', 132, 132' rotate in opposite directions, and during rotation in this direction, force is applied to the locking elements 40, 40', 140, 140' through the eccentric portions 52, 152 of the clamping elements 32, 32', 132, 132', such that the first and second components 36, 136, 38, 138 are released relative to each other and preferably at least partially spaced apart from each other.

[0088] Figure 13 A circuit block diagram of another embodiment of the quick-acting clamping device 208 is shown. The quick-acting clamping device 208 has a clamping mechanism 210. A drive device 272 is arranged at the clamping mechanism 210. The drive device 272 is used to drive the clamping mechanism 210. The drive device 272 has an electric motor 274, a hydraulic actuator 276, and / or a pneumatic actuator 278. The pneumatic actuator 278 has a cylinder actuator 280 and / or a rotary actuator 282.

[0089] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0090] 2 Granulation Unit

[0091] 4 Granulator

[0092] 6 cutting chambers

[0093] 8. Quick-acting clamping device

[0094] 10 clamping mechanisms

[0095] 12 granulator tracks

[0096] 14 drives

[0097] 16 protective shields

[0098] 18 is used for the outlet of process water and particles.

[0099] 20 is used for process water inlet.

[0100] 22 base

[0101] 24 shell

[0102] 26 substrates

[0103] 28 spacer elements

[0104] 30 machine carriers

[0105] 32,32' clamping elements

[0106] 34 cutting blades

[0107] 36 First Component

[0108] 38 Second Component

[0109] 40,40' locking element

[0110] 41. External cross-section of the locking element

[0111] 42 clamping rod

[0112] 43 Clamping lever arm

[0113] 44,44' Mounting Components

[0114] 45 sales

[0115] 46-pin retainer

[0116] 47 handles

[0117] 48 connecting screws

[0118] 49 First clamping rod section

[0119] 50 hooks

[0120] 51 Second clamping rod section

[0121] 52 Eccentric part

[0122] 53 Third clamping rod section

[0123] 54 threaded hole

[0124] 56 hook bottom

[0125] 58, 58' First arm, second arm

[0126] 60 hook

[0127] 62 Thickened section

[0128] 64 area centroid

[0129] 66 Sensor Devices

[0130] 68 Electromechanical Locking Equipment

[0131] 70 Locking Agency

[0132] 102 Granulation Unit

[0133] 104 Granulator

[0134] 106 Cutting Chamber

[0135] 108 Quick-acting clamping device

[0136] 110 clamping mechanism

[0137] 112 granulator track

[0138] 114 drive

[0139] 116 Protective Shield

[0140] 118 is used for the outlet of process water and particles.

[0141] 120 is used for the inlet of process water.

[0142] 122 base

[0143] 124 housing

[0144] 126 substrate

[0145] 128 spacer elements

[0146] 130 machine carrier

[0147] 132,132' clamping element

[0148] 134 cutting blade

[0149] 136 First Component

[0150] 138 Second Component

[0151] 140, 140' locking element

[0152] 141 External cross-section of locking element

[0153] 142 clamping rod

[0154] 143 Clamping Arm

[0155] 144,144' Mounting Components

[0156] 145 sales

[0157] 146-pin retainer

[0158] 147 controller

[0159] 148 connecting screws

[0160] 149 First clamping rod section

[0161] 150 hook

[0162] 151 Second clamping rod section

[0163] 152 Eccentric part

[0164] 153 Third clamping rod section

[0165] 154 threaded hole

[0166] 156 hook bottom

[0167] 158, 158' First arm, second arm

[0168] 160 hook

[0169] 162 thickened section

[0170] 164 area centroid

[0171] 166 sensor devices

[0172] 168 Electromechanical Locking Equipment

[0173] 170 Locking Mechanism

[0174] 208 Quick-acting clamping device

[0175] 210 clamping mechanism

[0176] 272 drive device

[0177] 274 electric motor

[0178] 276 Hydraulic Actuator

[0179] 278 pneumatic actuator

[0180] 280 cylinder driver

[0181] 282 Rotary Drive

[0182] d Free cross section

[0183] D Rotation axis

[0184] S-clamping position

Claims

1. A quick-acting clamping device for supporting a first component of a granulation apparatus onto a second component of the granulation apparatus, the quick-acting clamping device comprising: - A mounting element, which is disposed at the first component or the second component. - A locking element, wherein the locking element is disposed at another location in the first component or the second component, and - A clamping mechanism having a clamping element rotatably mounted to the mounting element about a rotation axis and adapted to pivot to a clamping position, in which the clamping element engages with the locking element and supports the first component on the second component. The clamping element also has an eccentric portion, which is configured such that when the clamping element moves out of the clamping position, the eccentric portion applies a force to the locking element, the force separating the first component from the second component.

2. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 1 further includes: - A second mounting element, which is arranged at the same location in the first and second components as the first mounting element. - A second locking element, which is disposed at the same location in the first and second components as the first locking element. The clamping mechanism has a second clamping element rotatably mounted to the second mounting element about a second rotation axis and adapted to pivot together with the clamping element to the clamping position, in which the second clamping element engages with the second locking element.

3. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 1, wherein... The clamping mechanism also has a clamping rod connected to the clamping element for actuating the clamping element.

4. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 3, wherein... The clamping element has a hook portion adapted to engage with the locking element and support the locking element on the clamping element in the clamping position when the clamping element is pivoted to the clamping position.

5. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 4, wherein... The hook portion has a hook bottom, the structure of which corresponds to the outer cross-section of the locking element.

6. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 5, wherein... The hook has a first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm and the second arm extend from the bottom of the hook and form a hook opening, the hook opening forming a free cross section between the first arm and the second arm, the free cross section expanding from the bottom of the hook toward the first arm and the second arm.

7. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 6, wherein... The first arm and / or the second arm have a thickened portion arranged adjacent to the bottom of the hook and the thickened portion is adapted to hold the locking element in the clamped position.

8. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 1, wherein... The centroid of the eccentric portion corresponds to the rotation axis of the clamping element.

9. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 6, wherein... One of the first and second arms is formed by the eccentric portion.

10. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 1, wherein The locking element and / or the mounting element are in the form of a pin.

11. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 1, further comprising: A drive device for driving the clamping mechanism, wherein the drive device has at least one of the following or is formed by at least one of the following: - Electric motor; - Hydraulic actuator; or - A pneumatic actuator, which has a cylinder actuator and / or a rotary actuator.

12. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 1, further comprising: Sensor devices for sensing the position of the clamping mechanism.

13. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 12, wherein The sensor device: (a) is arranged at the granulation apparatus, and / or (b) is adapted to generate a signal when the clamping mechanism is in the clamping position and / or out of the clamping position.

14. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 1, further comprising: An electromechanical locking mechanism, the electromechanical locking mechanism being adapted to hold the clamping mechanism in the clamping position and / or release the clamping mechanism from the clamping position.

15. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 3, wherein The clamping rod has two spaced-apart clamping arms and a handle connecting the clamping arms.

16. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 15, wherein The clamping arm has: a first clamping rod portion connected to the clamping element; a second clamping rod portion extending at an angle relative to the first clamping rod portion; and a third clamping rod portion extending at an angle relative to the second clamping rod portion and extending to the distal end where the handle is fixed.

17. The quick-acting clamping device according to claim 3, wherein The clamping rod is pivotally mounted to a first or second component of the granulation apparatus such that the clamping rod moves beyond the dead point in a toggle manner during support operation, and self-locking clamping occurs thereafter.

18. A granulation apparatus for producing particles from a melt stream, the granulation apparatus comprising: Granulator; Cutting chamber; and The quick-acting clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. A method of supporting a first component of a granulation apparatus to a second component of the granulation apparatus, the method comprising: - Provide the first component; - Provide the second component; and - The first component is supported to the second component by means of the quick-acting clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein The clamping mechanism is actuated by a clamping rod connected to the clamping element, and The clamping rod is pivotally mounted to the first or second component of the granulation device in an elbow manner, and rotates beyond the dead point for support, thereby achieving a self-locking support effect.

21. The method according to claim 19, wherein The clamping element is rotated to move it out of the clamping position, and a force is applied to the locking element through the eccentric portion, thereby releasing the first component from the second component and at least slightly spaced apart from the second component.

22. A clamping rod, the clamping rod being connectable to a clamping element of a quick-acting clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, for actuating the clamping element to support a first assembly of a granulating apparatus to a second assembly of the granulating apparatus, the clamping rod comprising: Two spaced-apart clamping arms and a handle connecting the clamping arms.

23. The clamping rod according to claim 22, wherein The clamping arm has a first clamping rod portion connected to the clamping element and a second clamping rod portion extending at an angle relative to the first clamping rod portion.

24. The clamping rod according to claim 23, further comprising: The third clamping rod extends at an angle relative to the second clamping rod and extends to the distal end where the handle is fixed.

25. The clamping rod according to claim 22, wherein The clamping rod is pivotally mounted to a first or second component of the granulation apparatus such that the clamping rod moves beyond the dead point during support operation in a toggle manner, and self-locking support occurs accordingly.

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