Retractable cleaning equipment and systems

Abstract

A retractable cleaning device (100) for jet cleaning of a pipe (202) or container (204) is disclosed. The retractable cleaning device (100) includes a rotatable spray head (102) configured to spray cleaning fluid (L) into the interior (206) of the pipe (202) or container (204). The rotatable spray head (102) is linearly movable between a retracted position (RP) and a cleaning position (CP) along its longitudinal axis (LA). The rotatable spray head (102) is rotatable about its longitudinal axis (LA) independently of the flow of the cleaning fluid (L). The rotatable spray head (102) can rotate at an angular velocity independent of the flow of the cleaning fluid (L). The angular velocity can be in the range of 0.1–1.3 radians per second. A system (200) including the retractable cleaning device (100) is also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a retractable cleaning device for spray cleaning of pipes or containers, and particularly to a retractable cleaning device having a rotatable spray head configured to spray cleaning fluid into the interior of the pipe or container. A system including the retractable cleaning device is also disclosed. Background Technology

[0002] Pipelines and tanks for various liquids or gases are used in many industrial processes, such as spray drying equipment, food manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, chemical processing, and material fermentation. Ensuring that the interior of pipelines and tanks is free of unwanted debris and contaminants is generally important.

[0003] Unwanted contaminants in such pipes and tanks can negatively impact the quality of manufactured, processed, or stored finished products. Furthermore, proper cleaning of the interiors of pipes or tanks is necessary to comply with regulations applicable to certain industries, such as the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Therefore, the interiors of such pipes and tanks are typically cleaned at specific intervals, such as after each processing batch, to ensure product quality and compliance with any applicable regulations.

[0004] Jet cleaning systems can be used to clean debris and residue from the inside of pipes, tanks and other containers using a method commonly known as jet cleaning or impact cleaning.

[0005] A common type of such jet cleaning system employs a retractable cleaning device that is attached to and can be inserted into the pipe or tank to be cleaned. This type of cleaning device typically features a rotatable jet section or body that is inserted into the pipe or tank during cleaning. When not in use, the jet section or body typically retracts from the pipe or tank, leaving the pipe or tank substantially unaffected. The rotatable jet section of this type of device typically rotates during cleaning of the pipe or tank, causing the sprayed liquid to be ejected and impact the surface of the pipe or tank to be cleaned. Furthermore, such devices are typically placed in the pipe at regular intervals to achieve satisfactory coverage of the pipe's interior. The liquid ejected from the rotatable jet section typically drives its rotation due to the reaction force exerted on it by the liquid leaving the rotatable jet section under pressure. This type of rotatable jet section (often referred to as free spin) typically rotates at approximately 100 rpm, but the actual rotational speed is affected by factors such as liquid pressure, the amount of liquid sprayed, and the design of the rotatable jet section (to provide some examples). Therefore, each cleaning device has a specific spray length within which effective cleaning is achieved, meaning sufficient spray patterns and pressure are achieved within that length. This implies that for longer pipes and large tanks, multiple cleaning devices must be installed at regular intervals.

[0006] DE 20 2004 012 949 U1 discloses a cleaning device of the type described above. DE 20 2004 012949 U1 discloses a device for cleaning the interior of a tank. The device includes a spray body or part that can be inserted into the tank to be cleaned. The spray body rotates by means of liquid sprayed through a plurality of spray nozzles provided at the spray body.

[0007] Current technology offers solutions for cleaning the interiors of pipes and tanks. However, in some cases, the efficiency of cleaning equipment has proven unsatisfactory. Furthermore, the spray length is difficult to predict because it is affected by actual liquid pressure, resulting rotational speed, and the design of the rotatable spray section. Moreover, the higher the rotational speed, the shorter the spray length. This necessitates that cleaning equipment be installed relatively close to each other to ensure adequate cleaning. This, in turn, leads to high, undesirable, liquid consumption. Additionally, the installation of numerous cleaning devices increases costs and the workload for both installation and maintenance. Furthermore, the more cleaning equipment used in a system, the greater the risk of malfunctions and downtime. Another disadvantage of increasing the number of cleaning devices is the increased risk of leakage, as it introduces larger sealing surfaces into the pipes or tanks of the system at hand.

[0008] Therefore, an improved retractable cleaning device is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In view of the foregoing, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved retractable cleaning device for jet cleaning of pipes or containers.

[0010] Another goal is to provide such retractable cleaning equipment that can improve the spray length.

[0011] Another goal is to provide such retractable cleaning equipment that requires fewer cleaning devices to be installed in the system.

[0012] Another objective is to provide such retractable cleaning devices that can reduce the amount of liquid or cleaning solution used for cleaning.

[0013] Another objective is to provide such retractable cleaning devices in which the spray pattern of the cleaning fluid can be controlled.

[0014] Another goal is to provide a cost-effective, retractable cleaning device.

[0015] To achieve at least one of the above objectives, and others as will become clear from the following description, a retractable cleaning device according to the invention is provided. A corresponding system according to the invention is also provided.

[0016] More specifically, according to a first aspect, a retractable cleaning device is provided for spray cleaning of pipes or containers, the retractable cleaning device comprising: a rotatable spray head configured to spray cleaning fluid into the interior of the pipe or container, wherein the rotatable spray head is linearly movable along a longitudinal axis of the rotatable spray head between a retracted position and a cleaning position, wherein the rotatable spray head is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the rotatable spray head independently of the flow of the cleaning fluid, and wherein the rotatable spray head is rotatable at an angular velocity independent of the flow of the cleaning fluid.

[0017] This provides an improved retractable cleaning device for jet cleaning of pipes or containers. The advantage of the retractable cleaning device lies in its inclusion of a rotatable nozzle that effectively cleans the interior of the pipe or container by spraying cleaning fluid onto it as the nozzle rotates independently of the flow of the cleaning fluid about its longitudinal axis. With this arrangement, the nozzle can rotate at an angular velocity independent of the flow of the cleaning fluid. This allows for rotation at low angular velocities. Even with a large flow of cleaning fluid, the angular velocity can be low. The angular velocity can also be low if the flow of cleaning fluid is constant or increased. The relatively low rotational speed results in a limited tangential velocity component in the cleaning fluid ejected from the rotatable nozzle. This limited tangential velocity component effectively contributes to increasing the spray length, since the majority or most of the velocity of the given cleaning fluid leaving the rotatable nozzle is in the radial direction of the rotatable nozzle, thus contributing to the increased spray length. The increased spray length results in fewer retractable cleaning devices being installed for a given pipe length or container size, as each retractable cleaning device can effectively clean the pipe or container at hand at an increased distance from the retractable cleaning device. At the same time, because the number of retractable cleaning devices required is reduced, the amount of cleaning fluid needed can be reduced. Using a limited amount of cleaning fluid allows for cleaning that consumes less liquid and energy. Retractable cleaning devices thus become more economical.

[0018] Furthermore, because the rotatable nozzle can rotate independently of the cleaning fluid flow around its longitudinal axis, the retractable cleaning device can be effectively used to blow air into readily available tubing or containers. Blowing air into tubing or containers allows for effective evacuation or drying. Air blowing can be performed without the risk of failure due to lack of lubrication. This advantage is further amplified because the rotatable nozzle can rotate at an angular velocity independent of the cleaning fluid flow.

[0019] Furthermore, because the rotatable nozzle can rotate independently of the flow of cleaning fluid around its longitudinal axis, retractable cleaning devices can be effectively used to extract air from readily available tubing or containers. Air extraction can be performed without the risk of malfunction due to lack of lubrication. This advantage is further amplified because the rotatable nozzle can rotate at an angular velocity independent of the flow of cleaning fluid.

[0020] The rotatable nozzle can move linearly between a retracted position and a cleaning position along its longitudinal axis. In the retracted position, the nozzle is located on the outside or substantially the outside of the tube or container in question. In effect, the nozzle is retracted such that, when the tube or container is sealed, the tip or outermost portion of the nozzle is visible from the inside of the tube or container. Therefore, when in the retracted position, the rotatable nozzle will practically not affect the interior of the tube or container in question, or will only affect it to a limited extent. On the other hand, when the rotatable nozzle is in the cleaning position, it moves into the interior of the tube or container in question, allowing the interior of the tube or container to be cleaned with the cleaning fluid.

[0021] The term "cleaning solution" can refer to any type of liquid suitable for cleaning readily available tubes or containers. Cleaning solution can be water. Cleaning solution may include water. Cleaning solution may include cleaning agents. Cleaning solution may be heated or cooled.

[0022] The term "pipe" can refer to any type of tube, conduit, pipe, or similar object that can be used to transport fluids (i.e., gases or liquids) or bulk materials.

[0023] The term "container" can mean any type of space, confined space, pot, container, tank, or similar object that can be used to contain or store fluids (i.e., gases or liquids) or bulk materials.

[0024] Retractable cleaning devices can be configured to receive cleaning fluid with a pressure in the range of 2-8 bar, which has the advantage of enabling effective cleaning of readily available tubes or containers.

[0025] The rotatable spray head can rotate at an angular velocity in the range of 0.1–1.3 radians per second. With this arrangement, the spray head can rotate independently of the flow of the cleaning fluid at an angular velocity in the range of 0.1–1.3 radians per second. Therefore, the spray head can rotate at an instantaneous rotational speed corresponding to approximately 0.95–12.4 rpm. As mentioned above, the relatively low rotational speed results in a limited tangential velocity component of the cleaning fluid ejected from the rotatable spray head, which helps to increase the spray length, leading to a reduction in the number of retractable cleaning devices required, as well as reduced liquid and energy consumption during cleaning, and lower costs.

[0026] The rotatable nozzle can move linearly between a retracted position and a cleaning position along its longitudinal axis, independent of the rotatable nozzle's ability to rotate about its longitudinal axis. In other words, the rotation of the rotatable nozzle about its longitudinal axis (i.e., rotational movement) is independent of its linear movement along the longitudinal axis between the retracted and cleaning positions. This means that the rotational movement of the rotatable nozzle is not limited by linear movement. Therefore, the rotational movement of the rotatable nozzle can be performed without any linear movement. This means that the rotatable nozzle can rotate without moving linearly along its longitudinal axis. Therefore, rotational movement can be performed and selected to achieve proper cleaning without being constrained by any retraction movement.

[0027] A rotatable nozzle can be configured to reciprocate about its longitudinal axis, which has the advantage that controlled rotation of the nozzle can be achieved efficiently. Reciprocating rotation about the longitudinal axis of the nozzle further allows for desired control of cleaning. For example, a retractable cleaning device can be operated to achieve improved cleaning in certain directions (such as along the longitudinal direction of the tube). Furthermore, a retractable cleaning device can be operated to achieve different lateral velocities of the cleaning fluid ejected from the rotatable nozzle in certain areas within a readily available tube or container.

[0028] The retractable cleaning device may also include a pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit, wherein the pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit is configured to convert reciprocating translational drive movement into reciprocating rotary movement of a rotatable nozzle. The advantage of this is that the controlled reciprocating rotary movement of the rotatable nozzle can be achieved through translational drive movement. Therefore, the reciprocating rotary movement of the rotatable nozzle can be achieved through pneumatically or hydraulically driven translational drive movement.

[0029] A rotatable nozzle can be coupled to a rotatable component, and the pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit may include a linearly movable first piston. The pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit may be configured to convert the reciprocating translational movement of the linearly movable first piston into the reciprocating rotational movement of the rotatable component. With this arrangement, the reciprocating rotational movement of the rotatable component, and therefore the rotatable nozzle, can be achieved by the linearly reciprocating movement of the linearly movable first piston. The linearly movable first piston can be linearly moved by pressure. The pressure can be applied, for example, by pressurized air or hydraulic oil. The linearly movable first piston can be pneumatically or hydraulically driven. The first piston may be referred to as a rotary piston.

[0030] A linearly movable first piston may be arranged in a piston chamber, which may include a first fluid port configured to deliver fluid into or out of the piston chamber on a first side of the linearly movable first piston, such that the linearly movable first piston moves linearly within the piston chamber in response to the delivery of fluid through the first fluid port. This arrangement allows the linearly movable first piston to move linearly in a controlled and simple manner. With this arrangement, the linearly movable first piston can move linearly within the piston chamber in response to the delivery of fluid through the first fluid port. The fluid can be any suitable gas or liquid, such as air, oil, or water. For example, the fluid can be pressurized air or hydraulic oil. Therefore, by adding or removing fluid from the piston chamber via the first fluid port on a first side of the linearly movable first piston, the linearly movable first piston can move linearly within the piston chamber.

[0031] The piston chamber may include a second fluid port configured to deliver fluid into or out of the piston chamber on a second side of the linearly movable first piston, such that the linearly movable first piston moves linearly within the piston chamber in response to the delivery of fluid through the second fluid port, with the advantage that the linearly movable first piston can move with improved accuracy and power.

[0032] The rotatable component can be mechanically coupled to a linearly movable first piston, the advantage of which is that the linear movement of the movable first piston can cause the rotational movement of the rotatable component, and thus cause the rotational movement of the rotatable nozzle.

[0033] The rotatable component can be mechanically connected to a linearly movable first piston by means of a cam arrangement or by means of a thread. The advantage is that the linear movement of the movable first piston causes rotational movement of the rotatable component, and thus rotational movement of the rotatable nozzle. This arrangement achieves a reliable and robust connection that converts linear movement into rotational movement.

[0034] The cam arrangement may include a helical cam recess for use in conjunction with a cam protrusion. The cam protrusion may be configured to follow the cam recess. A rotatable component may include the cam protrusion, and a linearly movable first piston includes the cam recess. The rotatable component may include the cam recess, and a linearly movable first piston includes the cam protrusion.

[0035] The cam arrangement may include multiple helical cam recesses for use in conjunction with multiple corresponding cam protrusions. The cam protrusions may be configured to follow the cam recesses. A rotatable component may include multiple cam protrusions, and a linearly movable first piston may include multiple cam recesses.

[0036] A thread may include a single external thread and a corresponding internal thread. A thread may include multiple external threads and corresponding internal threads. A rotatable component may include an internal thread and a linearly movable first piston external thread. A rotatable component may include an external thread and a linearly movable first piston internal thread.

[0037] The retractable cleaning device may also include a pneumatically or hydraulically driven, linearly movable second piston mechanically coupled to the rotatable nozzle. This linearly movable second piston can be configured to allow the rotatable nozzle to move linearly between a retracted position and a cleaning position. The advantage is that the rotatable nozzle can move between the retracted and cleaning positions in an efficient and controlled manner. The linearly movable second piston can be arranged in a piston chamber. The second piston may be referred to as the retractable piston.

[0038] The linearly movable second piston can move the rotatable spray head in response to its movement. The linearly movable second piston can also move other components of the retractable cleaning device relative to the pipe or container. The linearly movable second piston can also move the entire retractable cleaning device, more or less, relative to the pipe or container.

[0039] The piston chamber for the linearly movable second piston may include a third fluid port configured to introduce or remove fluid into or from the piston chamber on a first side of the linearly movable second piston, such that the linearly movable second piston moves linearly within the piston chamber in response to the introduction or removal of fluid through the third fluid port. This arrangement allows for controlled and simple movement of both the linearly movable second piston and the rotatable injector. The fluid can be any suitable gas or liquid, such as air, oil, or water. For example, the fluid can be pressurized air or hydraulic oil. Therefore, by adding or removing fluid from the piston chamber via the third fluid port on a first side of the linearly movable first piston, the linearly movable second piston can move linearly within the piston chamber, causing the rotatable injector to move accordingly.

[0040] The linearly movable second piston and the rotatable nozzle can move in one direction by means of a spring. The spring can be arranged to push the linearly movable second piston back when air is drawn out or vented from the piston chamber for the linearly movable second piston through the third fluid port. This has the advantage that the rotatable nozzle can retract under pressure loss.

[0041] The piston chamber for the linearly movable second piston may include a fourth fluid port configured to deliver fluid into or out of the piston chamber on a second side of the linearly movable second piston, such that the linearly movable second piston moves linearly within the piston chamber in response to the delivery of fluid through the fourth fluid port into or out of the piston chamber. This has the advantage that the linearly movable second piston and the rotatable nozzle can move with improved accuracy and power.

[0042] A pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit and a pneumatically or hydraulically driven linearly movable second piston can be housed in a common actuator. Therefore, the pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit and the pneumatically or hydraulically driven linearly movable second piston can be combined in a common actuator. By arranging the pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit and the pneumatically or hydraulically driven linearly movable second piston in a common actuator, design, manufacturing, and handling are enhanced. The design will also be more compact. Furthermore, because only a common actuator is needed for cleaning and the number of surfaces is reduced, cleanability is improved and cleaning is simplified. Housed the driven unit and the second piston in a common actuator also reduces costs.

[0043] The pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit and the pneumatically or hydraulically driven linearly movable second piston can be housed in a common housing of a common actuator.

[0044] Any one or more of the rotatable component, rotationally symmetrical protrusion, first piston, intermediate component, piston chamber of the first piston, second piston, piston chamber of the second piston, spring of the second piston, external thread, internal thread, cam arrangement, cam groove, and cam protrusion may be provided in the actuator, preferably in the actuator housing. The first fluid port and / or the second fluid port may be provided in or on the actuator, preferably in or on the actuator housing.

[0045] Each reciprocating rotational movement can be less than 8 radians, preferably less than 7 radians, which has the advantage that all directions, a desired range of directions, or a specific direction can be covered by each reciprocating rotational movement. Because 8 radians roughly correspond to 458 degrees and 7 radians roughly correspond to 401 degrees, all directions can be covered by a single reciprocating rotational movement of 8 radians, 7 radians, or slightly less than 7 radians.

[0046] Each rotational movement, described by the word "reciprocating rotational movement," refers to a rotational movement in one direction before the direction of rotation changes, that is, before the direction of rotation reverses.

[0047] A retractable spray head may include multiple nozzle channels, each terminating at a nozzle orifice. Most of the nozzle channels extend radially within the retractable spray head, which has the advantage of allowing for effective cleaning of readily available tubing or containers. Multiple nozzle channels allow for spray patterns comprising multiple jet streams. The design of the nozzle channels (and particularly the nozzle orifices) can be customized to alter the characteristics of individual jet streams. The spray length of the retractable cleaning device can be improved by arranging most of the nozzle channels to extend radially within the retractable spray head, since most or all of the nozzle channels extend radially within the retractable spray head. Therefore, most or all of the nozzle channels can be oriented straight outwards in any radial direction and thus can be left untilted to provide a reaction driving force to the retractable spray head.

[0048] The term radial direction refers to any direction that coincides with any plane that coincides with the longitudinal axis of the rotatable nozzle. In other words, it refers to any direction that does not provide a reaction rotational force on the rotatable nozzle.

[0049] The rotatable spray head may include multiple nozzle channels, each terminating at a nozzle orifice. At least two of the nozzle channels may extend at different angles relative to the longitudinal axis of the rotatable spray head. This arrangement allows for spray patterns comprising multiple jets projected in different directions. This configuration enables spray patterns with improved coverage. Therefore, the cleaning performance of the retractable cleaning equipment can be improved.

[0050] The rotatable spray head may include 4-40 nozzle channels, preferably 4-30 nozzle channels, more preferably 10-30 nozzle channels, and even more preferably 20-25 nozzle channels, each nozzle channel terminating at a nozzle orifice. Its advantage is that it can achieve effective cleaning while using a limited amount of cleaning fluid. Alternatively, the rotatable spray head may include 4-20 nozzle channels, such as 10-14 nozzle channels, each nozzle channel terminating at a nozzle orifice.

[0051] Each nozzle orifice can have a diameter in the range of 0.5-5 mm, preferably 1-3 mm, which has the advantage of enabling a jet stream with effective cleaning properties and jet length.

[0052] According to an alternative, a retractable cleaning device for spray cleaning of pipes or containers is provided, the retractable cleaning device comprising: a rotatable spray head configured to spray cleaning fluid into the interior of the pipe or container, wherein the rotatable spray head is linearly movable along a longitudinal axis of the rotatable spray head between a retracted position and a cleaning position, wherein the rotatable spray head is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the rotatable spray head independently of the flow of cleaning fluid, and wherein the rotatable spray head can rotate at an angular velocity in the range of 0.1-1.3 radians per second.

[0053] Generally, the alternative aspects can be combined with any of the features discussed above regarding the retractable cleaning device according to the first aspect. Furthermore, the features of the alternative aspects generally provide similar advantages to those discussed above with respect to the first aspect of the retractable cleaning device.

[0054] According to a second aspect, a system is provided. The system includes: a pipe or container, and a retractable cleaning device according to the first aspect or alternative described above, wherein the retractable cleaning device is attached to the pipe or container and configured to spray cleaning fluid onto the inner surface of the pipe or container.

[0055] Generally, the second aspect can be combined with any of the features discussed above regarding the retractable cleaning device according to the first aspect. Furthermore, the features of the second aspect generally provide similar advantages to those discussed above with respect to the first aspect of the retractable cleaning device.

[0056] Further features and advantages of the inventive concept will become apparent when examined in conjunction with the appended claims and the following description. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the inventive concept can be combined to produce variations other than those described below, without departing from the scope of the inventive concept. Attached Figure Description

[0057] Embodiments of the inventive concept will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, in which...

[0058] Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of a system that includes a retractable cleaning device in a cleaning position for cleaning the internal surface of a tube or container.

[0059] Figure 1b yes Figure 1a A schematic diagram of the system, in which the retractable cleaning device is in the retracted position.

[0060] Figure 2 yes Figure 1a -b is a schematic cross-sectional view of the retractable cleaning device.

[0061] Figure 3 yes Figure 1aSchematic cross-sectional view of the rotatable spray head of the retractable cleaning device (b and 2), and

[0062] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a pneumatically driven unit that includes a cam arrangement and is configured to convert reciprocating translational drive movement into reciprocating rotary movement. Detailed Implementation

[0063] The inventive concept will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred variations of the inventive concept are shown. However, the inventive concept can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the variations set forth herein; rather, these variations are provided for completeness and to fully convey the scope of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.

[0064] Now refer to the figure, and especially refer to the following: Figure 1a and 1b Herein is a conceptual depiction of a system 200, which includes a retractable cleaning device 100 for jet cleaning of a pipe 202 or container 204. The retractable cleaning device 100 includes a rotatable spray head 102 configured to spray cleaning fluid L into the interior 206 of the pipe 202 or container 204. Figure 1a In the illustration, the retractable cleaning device 100 is depicted in a cleaning position CP, in which a rotatable spray head 102 moves into and is present within the depicted tube 202. The dimensions (i.e., the diameter of the tube 202) can vary considerably. The diameter of the tube 202 may, for example, be 150, 300, 500, or 1000 mm (to give some non-limiting examples). It should be understood that the tube 202 can be replaced by any type of container 204.

[0065] exist Figure 1b In the diagram, the retractable cleaning device 100 is depicted in a retracted position RP, in which the rotatable nozzle 102 is removed from the depicted tube 202. In the retracted position RP, the end portion of the rotatable nozzle 102 is the only part of the retractable cleaning device 100 visible from the interior 206 of the depicted tube 202. The end portion of the rotatable nozzle 102 seals the interior 206 of the depicted tube 202 in a fluid-impermeable manner in the retracted position RP. The rotatable nozzle 102 is shown in dashed lines in the retracted position RP.

[0066] Therefore, the rotatable nozzle 102 can move linearly between the retracted position RP and the cleaning position CP along the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable nozzle 102.

[0067] The rotatable spray head 102 rotates about its longitudinal axis LA independently of the flow of the cleaning fluid L. In other words, the rotatable spray head 102 can be rotated by a drive mechanism independent of any flow of the cleaning fluid L. Therefore, the rotatable spray head 102 is driven independently of any flow of the cleaning fluid L. In other words, the rotatable spray head 102 can rotate regardless of the presence or absence of flow of the cleaning fluid L. Furthermore, the rotatable spray head 102 can rotate independently of the pressure of the cleaning fluid L. Additionally, the rotatable spray head 102 can rotate independently of the flow of the cleaning fluid L (such as mass flow or volume flow). The rotatable spray head 102 can also rotate at an angular velocity independent of the flow of the cleaning fluid L.

[0068] The rotatable nozzle 102 is configured to reciprocate about its longitudinal axis LA. Therefore, the rotatable nozzle 102 is configured to rotate back and forth about its longitudinal axis LA. In other words, the rotatable nozzle 102 is configured to repeatedly rotate in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) and then reverse its direction to rotate in a second opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise), thereby achieving reciprocating rotation about its longitudinal axis LA.

[0069] The following will refer to Figure 2 The rotation of the rotatable nozzle 102 is described in detail.

[0070] In the depicted retractable cleaning device 100, the rotatable spray head 102 can rotate at an angular velocity in the range of 0.1-1.3 radians per second. This angular velocity roughly corresponds to an instantaneous rotational speed of 0.95-12.4 rpm. The rotatable spray head 102 can rotate at other angular velocities.

[0071] Now refer to Figure 2 This is a conceptual description including Figure 1a and 1b A system 200 with retractable cleaning equipment 100. Figure 2 In the middle, it shows along Figure 1a A cross-sectional view of the retractable cleaning device 100 of line BB. Figure 2 In the middle, the rotatable spray head 102 is in the cleaning position CP. The rotatable spray head 102 depicted is designed in Figure 3 More details are shown in the text, and also refer to... Figure 3 .

[0072] Figure 1a , 1bThe rotatable nozzle 102 of the retractable cleaning device 100 depicted in section 2 is linearly movable along the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable nozzle 102 between a retracted position RP and a cleaning position CP, as described above. The movement between the retracted position RP and the cleaning position CP is achieved by a pneumatically driven, linearly movable second piston 118. The linearly movable second piston 118 is mechanically coupled to the rotatable nozzle 102 via a pneumatically driven unit 104, which will be described in more detail below. The depicted linearly movable second piston 118 is operated by introducing pressurized air above the linearly movable second piston 118 in the piston chamber 118a. When pressurized air is introduced above the linearly movable second piston 118 in the piston chamber 118a, the linearly movable second piston 118... Figure 2 The downward push causes the rotatable nozzle 102 to move to the cleaning position CP. The rotatable nozzle 102 moves to the retracted position RP by drawing or expelling air from the piston chamber 118a, causing the spring 118b to... Figure 2 The second piston 118, which can move linearly, is pushed upwards. Therefore, in the event of a pressure loss of the pressurized air, the rotatable nozzle 102 will be moved to the retracted position RP by the spring 118b.

[0073] In the depicted retractable cleaning device 100, a linearly movable second piston 118 is formed by the upper portion of the pneumatically driven unit 104. Therefore, when the linearly movable second piston 118 moves, a larger portion of the retractable cleaning device 100 (including the pneumatically driven unit 104 and the rotatable nozzle 102) moves along the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable nozzle 102. In fact, most of the internal portion of the retractable cleaning device 100 located below the linearly movable second piston 118 corresponds to the movement of the linearly movable second piston 118, causing the rotatable nozzle 102 to move linearly along its longitudinal axis LA between a retracted position RP and a cleaning position CP.

[0074] The linearly movable second piston 118 can be hydraulically driven by a pressurized hydraulic fluid such as hydraulic oil.

[0075] The position of the rotatable nozzle 102 along its longitudinal axis LA is monitored by a sensor located in the control unit 150 of the retractable cleaning device 100. Therefore, the control unit 150 includes the sensor and control unit 152 depicted in the retractable cleaning device 100. The sensor is connected to the control unit 152. The sensor is configured to sense the position of a component 118c that moves inside the control unit 150 corresponding to movement of the rotatable nozzle 102 along its longitudinal axis LA. The control unit 152 is configured to control the introduction and removal of pressurized air above a linearly movable second piston 118 in the piston chamber 118a. Therefore, the control unit 152 is configured to control the movement of the rotatable nozzle 102 along its longitudinal axis LA.

[0076] exist Figure 1a , 1b In the retractable cleaning device 100 depicted in 2, a rotatable nozzle 102 rotates about a longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable nozzle 102 via a pneumatic drive unit 104. The pneumatic drive unit 104 is configured to convert a reciprocating translational drive movement DM into a reciprocating rotational movement RRM of the rotatable nozzle 102. The depicted pneumatic drive unit 104 is driven by pressurized air.

[0077] exist Figure 1a , 1b In the retractable cleaning device 100 depicted in Figures 2 and 3, a rotatable nozzle 102 is coupled to a rotatable component 106, which, when rotated, causes the rotatable nozzle 102 to rotate accordingly. Therefore, a pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit 104 causes the rotatable nozzle 102 to reciprocate. The pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit 104 includes a linearly movable first piston 108 and is configured to convert the reciprocating translational drive movement DM of the linearly movable first piston 108 into the reciprocating rotational movement RRM of the rotatable component 106 and the rotatable nozzle 102.

[0078] In the depicted retractable cleaning device 100, a linearly movable first piston 108 is mechanically coupled to a rotatable member 106 via an intermediate member 108a. The intermediate member 108a is coupled to the rotatable member 106 such that the intermediate member 108a and the rotatable member 106 rotate together. Alternatively, the intermediate member 108a and the rotatable member 106 may be integrally formed. The rotatable member 106 is kept stationary relative to the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable spray head 102 by means of a rotationally symmetrical protrusion 106a provided thereon. Bearings or the like may be provided to reduce friction when rotating the rotatable member 106.

[0079] The intermediate component 108a connected to the rotatable component 106 is provided with an external thread 116a. The linearly movable first piston 108 is provided with a corresponding internal thread 116b. The engagement of the corresponding threads 116a and 116b causes the reciprocating translational drive movement DM of the linearly movable first piston 108 to be converted into the reciprocating rotational movement RRM of the rotatable component 106 and the rotatable nozzle 102.

[0080] The rotatable component 106 and the intermediate component 108a may be designed differently and may be formed, for example, as a shaft, a cylinder, or a hollow component (to give some non-limiting examples).

[0081] A linearly movable first piston 108 is arranged in a piston chamber 110. The piston chamber 110 is provided with a first fluid port 112, which is configured to deliver fluid into or out of the piston chamber 110 on a first side of the linearly movable first piston 108, such that the linearly movable first piston 108 moves linearly within the piston chamber 110 in response to delivering fluid into or out of the piston chamber 110 through the first fluid port 112.

[0082] The inner surface of the piston chamber 110 may be provided with a longitudinal protrusion that engages with a corresponding recess provided on the linearly movable first piston 108. This arrangement prevents rotation of the linearly movable first piston 108 relative to the retractable cleaning device 100. The piston chamber 110 may be fixed to prevent rotation relative to the retractable cleaning device 100.

[0083] exist Figure 2 In the retractable cleaning device depicted, a first fluid port 112 is provided such that pressurized air can be delivered into or out of the piston chamber 110 on the upper side of a linearly movable first piston 108. Therefore, if pressurized air is introduced into the piston chamber 110 through the first fluid port 112, the linearly movable first piston 108 will... Figure 2 The downward movement of the rotating part 106 and the rotating nozzle 102 causes rotational movement of the rotating part 106 and the rotating nozzle 102. Correspondingly, if pressurized air is removed from the piston chamber 110 through the first fluid port 112, the linearly movable first piston 108 can... Figure 2 The upward movement of the rotating part 106 causes the rotating part 106 and the rotating nozzle 102 to rotate in opposite directions.

[0084] The piston chamber 110 is provided with a second fluid port 114, which is configured to deliver fluid into or out of the piston chamber 110 on a second side of the linearly movable first piston 108, such that the linearly movable first piston 108 moves linearly in the piston chamber 110 in response to delivering fluid into or out of the piston chamber 110 through the second fluid port 114.

[0085] exist Figure 2 In the retractable cleaning device depicted, a second fluid port 114 is provided such that pressurized air can be delivered into or out of the piston chamber 110 on the underside of a linearly movable first piston 108. Therefore, if pressurized air is introduced into the piston chamber 110 through the second fluid port 114, the linearly movable first piston 108 will... Figure 2 The upward movement of the first piston causes rotational movement of the rotatable component 106 and the rotatable nozzle 102. Correspondingly, if pressurized air is removed from the piston chamber 110 through the second fluid port 114, the linearly movable first piston 108 can... Figure 2 The downward movement causes the rotatable component 106 and the rotatable nozzle 102 to rotate in opposite directions.

[0086] exist Figure 2 In the retractable cleaning device depicted, pressurized air is alternately introduced and removed through a first fluid port 112 and a second fluid port 114, causing a linearly movable first piston 108 to reciprocate. In other words, either side of the linearly movable first piston 108 is alternately pressurized. The introduction and removal of pressurized air are controlled by a valve controlled by a control unit 152. The rotational speed of the rotatable nozzle 102 can therefore be controlled by controlling the rate at which pressurized air is introduced and removed through the first fluid port 112 and the second fluid port 114.

[0087] In the case of a single fluid port (i.e., the first fluid port 112 or the second fluid port 114), the linearly movable first piston 108 may be spring-loaded such that the spring pushes the linearly movable first piston 108 back when pressurized air is removed through the single fluid port.

[0088] exist Figure 2 In the retractable cleaning device depicted, each rotational movement of the reciprocating rotary movement (RRM) is less than 8 radians. The maximum rotational movement of the reciprocating rotary movement is determined by how much the rotatable component 106 rotates during the full stroke of the linearly movable first piston 108. To achieve a small rotational movement at a certain point, the linearly movable first piston 108 can be made to reciprocate upward and downward at a certain point in its stroke length. The maximum rotational movement of the reciprocating rotary movement can be customized by adjusting the pitch of the custom threads 116a, 116b.

[0089] Still referencing Figure 4 This is a conceptual description Figure 2The threads 116a and 116b are replaced by a cam arrangement 115. The cam arrangement 115 includes a helical cam groove 115a and a cam protrusion 115b following the cam groove 115a. The depicted cam groove 115a is located on a linearly movable first piston 108. The depicted cam protrusion 115b is located on an intermediate member 108a. The cam groove 115a may be correspondingly located on the intermediate member 108a, and the cam protrusion 115b on the linearly movable first piston 108. In this case, the maximum rotational movement of the reciprocating rotational movement is determined by the pitch of the cam groove 115a (i.e., how much the rotatable member 106 rotates during the full stroke of the linearly movable first piston 108).

[0090] The rotatable nozzle 102 can be rotated about its longitudinal axis LA in a manner corresponding to that described above by a hydraulic drive unit. The hydraulic drive unit can then be driven by pressurized hydraulic fluid, such as hydraulic oil.

[0091] The pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit 104 and the pneumatically or hydraulically driven linearly movable second piston 118 are housed together in a common actuator 140. The pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit 104 and the pneumatically or hydraulically driven linearly movable second piston 118 are housed in a common housing 141 of the common actuator 140.

[0092] The mechanical parts involved in the linear and rotational movement of the rotatable injection head 102 (such as the rotatable component 106, the rotationally symmetrical protrusion 106a, the first piston 108, the intermediate component 108a and the piston chamber 110, and the second piston 118, the piston chamber 118a and the spring 118b) are provided in the actuator 140, more precisely, in the housing 141 of the actuator 140. In the case of threads 116a and 116b, the external thread 116a and the internal thread 116b are also provided in the actuator 140, more precisely, in the housing 141 of the actuator 140. In the case of the cam arrangement 115, the cam arrangement 115, the cam groove 115a and the cam protrusion 115b are also provided in the actuator 140, more precisely, in the housing 141 of the actuator 140. Furthermore, the first fluid port 112 and the second fluid port 114 are disposed in or on the actuator 140, or more precisely, in or on the housing 141 of the actuator 140.

[0093] Independent of the rotatable nozzle 102, it can move linearly between the retracted position RP and the clean position CP along the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable nozzle 102, which can rotate about the longitudinal axis LA. This is understood from the above. In particular, the rotational movement of the rotatable nozzle 102 about the longitudinal axis LA is achieved by means of the driven unit 104 through the alternating introduction of pressurized air on the first and second sides of the first piston 108, while the linear movement of the rotatable nozzle 102 between the retracted position RP and the clean position CP is achieved by means of a pneumatically driven linearly movable second piston 118 through the introduction of pressurized air into the piston chamber 118a above the linearly movable second piston 118 and the extraction of pressurized air from the piston chamber 118a.

[0094] As in Figure 2 In particular Figure 3 As can be seen, the rotatable spray head 102 of the depicted retractable cleaning device 100 is provided with a plurality of nozzle channels 120. Each nozzle channel terminates at a nozzle orifice 122. The depicted nozzle channels 120 are formed as openings in the rotatable spray head 102. Each nozzle orifice 122 typically has a diameter in the range of 1-3 mm. Other diameters can be used to customize the spraying behavior of the retractable cleaning device 100. For example, 0.5-5 mm can be used. The nozzle orifice 122 can have shapes other than circular. The nozzle orifice 122 can be elongated, square, star-shaped, Z-shaped (to give some non-limiting examples).

[0095] In the depicted retractable cleaning device 100, all nozzle channels 120 extend in the radial direction of the rotatable spray head 102. This means that all nozzle channels 120 extend in a direction coinciding with any radial plane of the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable spray head 102. With this arrangement, the flow of cleaning fluid L through the nozzle channels 120 does not exhibit rotational reaction force on the rotatable spray head 102.

[0096] Not all nozzle channels 120 need to extend in the radial direction of the rotatable nozzle head 102. However, preferably, most of the nozzle channels 120 extend in the radial direction of the rotatable nozzle head 102. In fact, the nozzle channels 120 do not need to extend in the radial direction of the rotatable nozzle head 102. In other words, some or all of the nozzle channels 120 may be inclined relative to any radial plane of the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable nozzle head 102.

[0097] like Figure 3As can be seen, the nozzle channel 120 extends at different angles α and β relative to the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable spray head 102. The fact that the nozzle channel 120 extends at different angles α and β relative to the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable spray head 102 enables an effective spray cleaning pattern with desired coverage of the interior 206 of the tube 202 or container 204 at hand. In other words, multiple spray jets can be achieved by spraying at different angles and forming spray patterns.

[0098] Preferably, at least two of the nozzle channels 120 may extend at different angles α and β relative to the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable nozzle head 102. However, all nozzle channels 120 may extend at the same angle relative to the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable nozzle head 102.

[0099] Figure 3 The depicted rotatable spray head 102 has 12 nozzle channels 120, each nozzle channel terminating at a nozzle orifice 122. The nozzle channels 120 are arranged along two lines of the rotatable spray head 102. These lines are opposite to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable spray head 102. Preferably, the rotatable spray head 102 has 4-40 nozzle channels 120, more preferably 4-30 nozzle channels 120, further preferably 10-30 nozzle channels 120, and even more preferably 20-25 nozzle channels 120, each nozzle channel terminating at a nozzle orifice 122. Alternatively, the rotatable spray head 102 has 4-20 nozzle channels 120, such as 10-14 nozzle channels 120, each nozzle channel terminating at a nozzle orifice 122.

[0100] When the retractable cleaning device 100 is used for spray cleaning of pipe 202 or container 204, the first step typically involves moving the rotatable spray head 102 from the retracted position RP to the cleaning position CP along the longitudinal axis LA of the rotatable spray head 102. Subsequently, the rotatable spray head 102 is rotated reciprocally as described above. Simultaneously, before, or after this, cleaning fluid L is introduced through the opening 130 of the flange 132. Then, the cleaning fluid L travels along the nozzle channel 120 before exiting the rotatable spray head 102. Figure 2 The path indicated by the arrow labeled L provides, for example, Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the injection patterns of multiple jets L. Cleaning fluid L is typically supplied at pressures ranging from 2 to 8 bar.

[0101] When the spray cleaning of tube 202 or container 204 is complete, the flow of cleaning fluid L is shut off, meaning that cleaning fluid L is no longer introduced through the opening 130 of flange 132. When the flow of cleaning fluid L is shut off, the spray pattern is no longer provided by the rotatable spray head 102. The reciprocating rotational movement RRM of the spray head is shut off by stopping the reciprocating translational drive movement DM of the linearly movable first piston 108, either simultaneously, before, or after the cleaning fluid L is shut off. The rotatable spray head 102 then moves from the cleaning position CP to the retracted position RP along its longitudinal axis LA, such that the end portion of the rotatable spray head 102 is the only part of the retractable cleaning device 100 visible from the interior 206 of tube 202 or container 204. Therefore, the end portion of the rotatable spray head 102 is substantially flush with the wall of tube 202 or container 204. In other words, the rotatable spray head 102 no longer extends into the interior 206 of tube 202 or container 204.

[0102] Although the inventive concept has been described with reference to specific exemplary variations thereof, many different changes, modifications, etc., will become apparent to those skilled in the art. By studying the figures, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed modifications when practicing the claimed invention. Furthermore, in the claims, the words "comprising" and "including" do not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plural.

Claims

1. A retractable cleaning device (100) for jet cleaning of pipes (202) or containers (204), said retractable cleaning device (100) comprising: A rotatable spray head (102) is configured to spray cleaning fluid (L) into the interior (206) of the tube (202) or container (204), wherein the rotatable spray head (102) is linearly movable along its longitudinal axis (LA) between a retracted position (RP) and a cleaning position (CP). The rotatable spray head (102) is capable of rotating about its longitudinal axis (LA) independently of the flow of the cleaning fluid (L), and the rotatable spray head (102) is capable of rotating at an angular velocity independent of the flow of the cleaning fluid (L). The retractable cleaning device (100) is independently movable linearly between the retracted position (RP) and the cleaning position (CP) along its longitudinal axis (LA), and is rotatable about its longitudinal axis (LA). The retractable cleaning device (100) is configured to reciprocate about its longitudinal axis (LA). The retractable cleaning device (100) further includes a pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit (104). The pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit (104) is configured to convert reciprocating translational drive movement (DM) into reciprocating rotary movement (RRM) of the rotatable nozzle (102), wherein the rotatable nozzle (102) is coupled to a rotatable component (106), and wherein the pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit (104) includes a linearly movable first piston (108), the pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit (104) being configured to convert the reciprocating translational drive movement (DM) of the linearly movable first piston (108) into the reciprocating rotary movement (RRM) of the rotatable component (106).

2. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The rotatable nozzle (102) can rotate at an angular velocity in the range of 0.1-1.3 radians per second.

3. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The linearly movable first piston (108) is arranged in a piston chamber (110) including a first fluid port (112) configured to deliver fluid into or out of the piston chamber (110) on a first side of the linearly movable first piston (108), such that the linearly movable first piston (108) moves linearly within the piston chamber (110) in response to delivering fluid through the first fluid port (112) into or out of the piston chamber (110).

4. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 3, wherein, The piston chamber (110) includes a second fluid port (114) configured to deliver fluid into or out of the piston chamber (110) on a second side of the linearly movable first piston (108), such that the linearly movable first piston (108) moves linearly within the piston chamber (110) in response to delivering fluid into or out of the piston chamber (110) through the second fluid port (114).

5. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The rotatable component (106) is mechanically connected to the linearly movable first piston (108).

6. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 5, wherein, The rotatable component (106) is mechanically connected to the linearly movable first piston (108) by means of a cam arrangement (115) or by means of threads (116a, 116b).

7. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the retractable cleaning device (100) further comprises: A pneumatically or hydraulically driven linearly movable second piston (118) is mechanically coupled to the rotatable nozzle (102), the linearly movable second piston (118) being configured to allow the rotatable nozzle (102) to move linearly between the retracted position (RP) and the cleaned position (CP).

8. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 7, wherein, The pneumatically or hydraulically driven unit (104) and the pneumatically or hydraulically driven linearly movable second piston (118) are disposed in a common actuator (140).

9. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, Each rotational movement of the reciprocating rotational movement (RRM) is less than 8 radians.

10. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 9, wherein, Each rotational movement of the reciprocating rotational movement (RRM) is less than 7 radians.

11. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The rotatable spray head (102) includes a plurality of nozzle channels (120), each nozzle channel terminating at a nozzle orifice (122), wherein most of the nozzle channels (120) extend in the radial direction of the rotatable spray head (102).

12. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The rotatable spray head (102) includes a plurality of nozzle channels (120), each nozzle channel terminating at a nozzle orifice (122), wherein at least two of the nozzle channels (120) extend at different angles (α, β) relative to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the rotatable spray head (102).

13. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The rotatable spray head (102) includes 4-40 nozzle channels (120), each nozzle channel terminating at a nozzle orifice (122).

14. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 13, wherein, The rotatable spray head (102) includes 4-30 nozzle channels.

15. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 14, wherein, The rotatable spray head (102) includes 10-30 nozzle channels.

16. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 15, wherein, The rotatable spray head (102) includes 20-25 nozzle channels.

17. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 11, wherein, Each nozzle orifice (122) has a diameter in the range of 0.5-5 mm.

18. The retractable cleaning device (100) according to claim 17, wherein, Each nozzle orifice (122) has a diameter in the range of 1-3 mm.

19. A system (200) comprising: Pipe (202) or container (204), The retractable cleaning device (100) according to any one of claims 1-18, in, The retractable cleaning device (100) is attached to the tube (202) or container (204) and configured to spray cleaning fluid onto the inner surface (206) of the tube (202) or container (204).

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