Sealing devices for tunneling machines and tunneling machines

By adding first and second seals at the grease outlet of the sealing cavity of the tunneling machine, a vacuum or low-pressure area is formed by utilizing the Venturi effect, which solves the problem of easy failure of the sealing system, achieves better sealing effect and equipment reliability, and reduces construction costs.

CN116696376BActive Publication Date: 2026-04-03CHINA RAILWAY ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT GROUP CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-07-12
Publication Date
2026-04-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing tunneling machine sealing systems are prone to failure, resulting in poor sealing performance, which affects construction quality and equipment lifespan.

Method used

A first seal and a second seal are added at the grease outlet of the sealed cavity to form at least one first drainage cavity, including a first drainage section, a constriction section and a second drainage section connected in sequence, and a second drainage cavity is reserved between the first seal and the second seal. The venturi effect is used to form a vacuum or low-pressure area in the constriction section and/or the second drainage cavity to provide external suction force. The on/off state of the constriction section is controlled by magnetic or elastic elements.

Benefits of technology

It improves sealing performance, prevents external contaminants from entering, reduces the amount of sealing grease used, and ensures the reliability and economy of the tunneling machine. It is suitable for the main drive, external seal, and articulated structure of the tunneling machine.

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Abstract

This invention relates to a sealing device for a tunneling machine and the tunneling machine itself. The sealing device includes a first sealing element and a second sealing element, which cooperate to form a first drainage cavity. The first drainage cavity includes a first drainage section, a constricted section, and a second drainage section connected in sequence. The flow areas of both the first and second drainage sections are larger than the flow area of ​​the constricted section. The first and / or second sealing elements are movable to control the on / off state of the constricted section. A second drainage cavity is reserved between the first and second sealing elements, connecting the sealing cavity and the constricted section. When the constricted section is open, the medium flowing through the first drainage cavity creates a vacuum or low-pressure area within the constricted section and / or the second drainage cavity. When the constricted section is closed, it blocks the connection between the sealing cavity and the outside. This invention solves the technical problems of frequent malfunctions and poor sealing performance in tunneling machine sealing systems.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of tunnel construction technology, and in particular to a sealing device for a tunneling machine and a tunneling machine. Background Technology

[0002] Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are now widely used in underground space construction and tunnel building. During construction, components such as the cutterhead rotate. To prevent contact with external dust and other contaminants, a sealing system (such as the main drive seal, articulated seal, and tail seal) is required between the two relatively moving components. This sealing system plays a crucial role in the normal operation of the TBM and directly determines its performance.

[0003] Taking the main drive internal seal as an example, the current sealing method mainly uses a lip seal structure. An electric pump continuously injects pressurized grease into the oil passage formed between the inner and outer lip seals, causing excess grease to be squeezed out from the opening of the oil passage, thus achieving a sealing effect. However, at construction sites, the sealing system suffers from frequent failures and poor sealing performance, seriously affecting the quality and progress of on-site construction, and even leading to damage to components such as the main drive bearing of the tunneling machine, severely impacting the equipment's service life and causing significant economic losses.

[0004] There is currently no effective solution to the problem of frequent failures and poor sealing performance in the sealing system of tunneling machines in related technologies.

[0005] Therefore, based on years of experience and practice in related industries, the inventor proposes a sealing structure for tunneling machines and a tunneling machine to overcome the shortcomings of existing technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a sealing structure for a tunneling machine and a tunneling machine in general, which can improve the sealing ability of the sealing structure of the tunneling machine, achieve a better sealing effect, thereby improving the reliability of the tunneling machine, while reducing construction costs and meeting the green and environmentally friendly requirements of tunnel construction.

[0007] The objective of this invention can be achieved through the following methods:

[0008] This invention provides a sealing device for a tunneling machine, which is used to seal the sealing cavity in the tunneling machine. The sealing device for the tunneling machine includes a first sealing element and a second sealing element, and the first sealing element and the second sealing element cooperate to form at least one first drainage cavity.

[0009] The first drainage cavity includes at least a first drainage section, a constricted section, and a second drainage section connected in sequence. The flow area of ​​the first drainage section and the flow area of ​​the second drainage section are both greater than the flow area of ​​the constricted section. The first sealing member and / or the second sealing member are movably disposed to control the on / off state of the constricted section.

[0010] A second drainage channel is provided between the first seal and the second seal. The second drainage channel is used to connect the sealing channel and the constriction. When the constriction is open, the medium in the first drainage section flows sequentially through the first drainage section, the constriction, and the second drainage section, forming a vacuum or low-pressure area in the constriction and / or the second drainage channel to provide suction force for the sealing grease in the sealing channel to be discharged. When the constriction is closed, the constriction blocks the connection between the sealing channel and the outside.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first sealing member has a first protrusion and a second protrusion disposed opposite to each other, the second sealing member is located near the second protrusion, and the second sealing member has a third protrusion opposite to the first protrusion to form the constriction between the first protrusion, the second protrusion and the third protrusion, a second drainage cavity is reserved between the second protrusion and the third protrusion, the inlet of the second drainage cavity is diaphragmably connected to the sealing cavity, and the outlet of the second drainage cavity is diaphragmably connected to the constriction.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first drainage portion is formed inside the first sealing member, and the second drainage portion is formed between the first sealing member and the second sealing member. The first drainage portion and the second drainage portion are respectively located on both sides of the constricted portion. When the constricted portion is open, the first drainage portion and the second drainage portion are respectively connected to the constricted portion.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second drainage portion has an external discharge port, which is used to discharge the medium in the first drainage cavity and the sealing grease in the sealing cavity.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sealing device for the tunneling machine further includes a housing, wherein the first sealing element and the second sealing element are both located inside the housing;

[0015] The first sealing element is a movable element, and a first magnetic element is provided on the first sealing element;

[0016] The second sealing element is a fixing element, and a second magnetic element is provided on the second sealing element;

[0017] When the tunneling machine is working, the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component repel each other, thereby pushing the first seal to move the first protrusion on it away from the third protrusion, and the constricted portion becomes open;

[0018] When the tunneling machine stops, the magnetism of the first magnetic component or the second magnetic component is changed so that the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component attract each other. The first seal moves the first protrusion on it away from the third protrusion until the first protrusion abuts against the third protrusion, and the constriction is closed.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sealing device for the tunneling machine further includes a housing, wherein the first sealing element and the second sealing element are both located inside the housing;

[0020] The first sealing element is a movable element, and a first magnetic element is provided on the first sealing element. An elastic element is pressed between the first sealing element and the inner wall of the outer shell.

[0021] The second sealing element is a fixing element, and a second magnetic element is provided on the second sealing element;

[0022] When the tunneling machine is working, the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component repel each other, thereby pushing the first seal to move the first protrusion on it away from the third protrusion, and the constricted portion becomes open;

[0023] When the tunneling machine stops, there is no force between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component. The elastic component pushes the first sealing component to move the first protrusion away from the third protrusion until the first protrusion abuts against the third protrusion, and the constricted portion closes.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the constricted portion is closed, at least a portion of the first seal can abut against at least a portion of the sealing runway of the tunneling machine.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the outer shell is an annular structure covering the outside of the grease outlet of the sealed cavity, the outer shell is fixedly connected to the drive disc of the tunneling machine, the second seal is fixedly connected to the drive box of the tunneling machine, and the first seal is movably disposed inside the outer shell.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sealing cavity is an annular cavity formed between the sealing runway of the tunneling machine and the drive disc of the tunneling machine, the first sealing member and the second sealing member are respectively annular structural members arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity, and the first drainage cavity and / or the second drainage cavity are annular cavities arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sealing cavity is an annular cavity formed between the sealing runway of the tunneling machine and the drive disc of the tunneling machine. The first sealing member and the second sealing member are annular structural members arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity. The number of the first drainage cavity and / or the second drainage cavity is multiple, and the multiple first drainage cavities and / or the multiple second drainage cavities are arc-shaped cavities arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity.

[0028] The present invention provides a tunneling machine, the tunneling machine including the above-mentioned sealing device for tunneling machines and a sealed cavity to prevent external contaminants from entering, wherein the sealing device for tunneling machines is disposed at or near the grease outlet of the sealed cavity.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the tunneling machine includes a drive box, a drive disc, a cutterhead, and a drive device. The drive disc is arranged around the outer periphery of the drive box. The drive disc is connected to the cutterhead and an internal gear ring respectively. The teeth on the internal gear ring mesh with the teeth on the gear sleeved on the output shaft of the drive device to drive the drive disc and the cutterhead to rotate circumferentially relative to the drive box.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an annular sealing track is provided on the outer wall of the drive box along its circumference. The sealing cavity is formed between the sealing track and the drive disc. The sealing cavity has a grease inlet and a grease outlet. A plurality of lip seals are spaced apart along its axial direction in the sealing cavity. A sealing spacer is pressed between two adjacent lip seals. Sealing grease enters the sealing cavity through the grease inlet, and at least a portion of the sealing grease is discharged through the grease outlet.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the tunneling machine further includes a shield body, and the drive box, the drive disc, the drive device and the internal gear ring are all located inside the shield body.

[0032] Based on the above, the features and advantages of the sealing structure for tunneling machines and the tunneling machine of the present invention are as follows:

[0033] Based on the existing sealing cavity of the tunneling machine, a first seal and a second seal are added at the grease outlet of the sealing cavity. The first seal and the second seal cooperate to form at least one first drainage cavity. The first drainage cavity includes at least a first drainage section, a constriction section and a second drainage section connected in sequence. A second drainage cavity is reserved between the first seal and the second seal. The sealing cavity and the constriction section are connected through the second drainage cavity. Since the flow area of ​​the first drainage section and the second drainage section are both larger than the flow area of ​​the constriction section, when the medium flows through the first drainage section, the constriction section and the second drainage section in sequence, a Venturi effect can be generated in the constriction section and / or the second drainage cavity. This can create a vacuum or low-pressure area in the constriction section and / or the second drainage cavity to provide suction force for the grease in the sealing cavity to be discharged, thereby facilitating the discharge of the grease in the sealing cavity and improving the sealing effect of the sealing cavity.

[0034] Since the first and / or second seals are movable, the opening and closing state of the constriction section can be controlled by adjusting their relative positions. When the constriction section is open, the medium in the first drainage section flows sequentially through the first drainage section, the constriction section, and the second drainage section for discharge, thereby blocking external contaminants and preventing them from entering the sealing cavity of the tunneling machine. In addition, the sealing grease sucked out of the sealing cavity forms a barrier, further blocking the intrusion of external contaminants, thus achieving a better sealing effect. When the constriction section is closed, it blocks the connection between the sealing cavity and the outside, maintaining the sealing effect of the sealing cavity even when the tunneling machine is not working, improving the sealing capacity of the tunneling machine's sealing structure, and enhancing the reliability of the tunneling machine. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The accompanying drawings are intended only to illustrate and explain the present invention and do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0036] in:

[0037] Figure 1 : This is a schematic diagram showing the location of the sealing device for the tunneling machine of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 : This is a cross-sectional view of the sealing device for the tunneling machine of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 3 :for Figure 2 One of the magnified views of position A in the middle.

[0040] Figure 4 :for Figure 2 The second magnified view of the area at position A.

[0041] Figure 5: This is a diagram showing the flow direction of the medium in the sealing device for the tunneling machine of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the sealing device for a tunneling machine according to the present invention.

[0043] The reference numerals in the accompanying drawings of this invention are:

[0044] 1. Sealing device for tunneling machine; 101. First sealing element;

[0045] 1011. The first convex part; 1012. The second convex part;

[0046] 102. The second seal; 1021. The third convex part;

[0047] 103. Elastic component; 104. First magnetic component;

[0048] 105. Second magnetic component; 106. Outer casing;

[0049] 107. First drainage section; 108. Narrowing section;

[0050] 109. Second drainage section; 110. Second drainage cavity;

[0051] 2. Sealed cavity; 201. Grease outlet;

[0052] 3. Drive box; 4. Drive disk;

[0053] 5. Sealed runway; 6. Sealing pressure ring;

[0054] 7. Internal gear ring; 8. Shield body;

[0055] 9. Lip seal; 10. Sealing spacer. Detailed Implementation

[0056] To provide a clearer understanding of the technical features, objectives, and effects of the present invention, specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] In this invention, terms such as "up," "down," "top," and "bottom," which indicate direction, are all used in this way. Figure 3 The directions of "up," "down," "top," and "bottom" are used as a reference and are described here together. In addition, the terms "up," "down," "top," "bottom," and similar expressions used in this invention are only for clearly explaining the positional relationship and structure between the components and do not represent the only implementation method.

[0058] This invention is designed based on Bernoulli's principle and the Venturi effect. Specifically, when a fluid flows in a confined space through a narrowed cross-section, its velocity increases, and a low pressure is generated near the high-speed fluid, resulting in adsorption. For example,... Figure 6 As shown, the fluid enters from position A. When the fluid passes through the narrow opening at position B, the fluid velocity will increase at position B, and a local vacuum region or low-pressure region will be formed at position D or at the junction of B and D. Due to the pressure difference, the fluid at position D will be drawn to position C.

[0059] Implementation Method 1

[0060] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the present invention provides a sealing device for a tunneling machine, which is used to seal a sealing cavity 2 in the tunneling machine. The sealing device includes a first sealing element 101 and a second sealing element 102. The first sealing element 101 and the second sealing element 102 cooperate to form at least one first drainage cavity. The first drainage cavity includes at least a first drainage section 107, a constriction section 108, and a second drainage section 109 connected in sequence. The flow area of ​​the first drainage section 107 (i.e., the area on the cross-section of the first drainage section 107 that allows the medium to pass through) and The flow area of ​​the second drainage section 109 (i.e., the area on the cross-section of the second drainage section 109 that allows the medium to pass through) is greater than the flow area of ​​the constriction section 108 (i.e., the area on the cross-section of the constriction section 108 that allows the medium to pass through). The first seal 101 and / or the second seal 102 are movably disposed to control the on / off state of the constriction section 108. A second drainage cavity 110 is reserved between the first seal 101 and the second seal 102. The second drainage cavity 110 is used to connect the sealing cavity 2 of the tunneling machine with the constriction section 108 in the first drainage cavity. When the first seal 101 and / or the second seal 102 moves to the open position of the constriction 108, the medium in the first drainage section 107 flows sequentially through the first drainage section 107, the constriction 108, and the second drainage section 109, forming a vacuum or low-pressure area (the pressure in this area is less than the pressure in the sealing cavity 2) in the constriction 108 and / or the second drainage channel 110, so as to provide a suction force for the sealing grease in the sealing cavity 2 to be discharged; when the first seal 101 and / or the second seal 102 moves to the closed position of the constriction 108, the constriction 108 blocks the communication between the sealing cavity 2 and the outside.

[0061] This invention, based on the existing sealing cavity 2 of the tunneling machine, adds a first sealing element 101 and a second sealing element 102 at the grease outlet 201 of the sealing cavity 2. The first sealing element 101 and the second sealing element 102 cooperate to form at least one first drainage cavity. The first drainage cavity includes at least a first drainage section 107, a constricted section 108, and a second drainage section 109 connected in sequence. A second drainage cavity 110 is reserved between the first sealing element 101 and the second sealing element 102. The sealing cavity 2 and the constricted section 108 are connected through the second drainage cavity 110. Since the flow areas of the first drainage section 107 and the second drainage section 109 are both larger than the flow area of ​​the constriction section 108, a Venturi effect can be generated in the constriction section 108 and / or the second drainage channel 110 when the medium flows sequentially through the first drainage section 107, the constriction section 108, and the second drainage channel 109. This creates a vacuum or low-pressure area within the constriction section 108 and / or the second drainage channel 110, providing suction force for the outward discharge of the sealing grease in the sealing channel 2. This facilitates the outward discharge of the sealing grease from the sealing channel 2 and improves the sealing effect of the sealing channel 2. Because this invention can provide additional suction force for the sealing grease, in actual operation, even with a reduced amount of sealing grease injected, it still ensures that no contaminants enter the sealing channel 2. This not only guarantees a good sealing effect but also reduces construction costs, resulting in better economic efficiency.

[0062] In this invention, since the first sealing member 101 and / or the second sealing member 102 are movable (i.e., the first sealing member 101 can be movable and the second sealing member 102 can be fixed; or the second sealing member 102 can be movable and the first sealing member 101 can be fixed; or both the first sealing member 101 and the second sealing member 102 can be movable), the on / off state of the constricted portion 108 can be controlled by adjusting the relative position of the first sealing member 101 and the second sealing member 102. When the constricted portion 108 is open, the medium in the first drainage portion 107 flows sequentially through the first drainage portion 107, the constricted portion 108, and... The second drainage section 109 discharges pollutants externally, thus blocking external contaminants from entering the sealed cavity 2 of the tunneling machine. In addition, the sealing grease pumped out into the sealed cavity 2 forms a barrier, further preventing external contaminants from intruding into the sealed cavity 2, thereby achieving a better sealing effect. When the constriction section 108 is closed, it blocks the connection between the sealed cavity 2 and the outside, maintaining the sealing effect of the sealed cavity 2 even when the tunneling machine is not working, improving the sealing capacity of the tunneling machine's sealing structure and enhancing the reliability of the tunneling machine.

[0063] In this invention, the medium is a fluid flowing through the first inlet 107. Airflow or other flow paths can be connected to the first inlet 107 to continuously inject fluid into it (i.e., the first inlet 107 can be considered a flow channel). The medium can be, but is not limited to, gas or liquid. The medium can be high-pressure air ejected outwards, thereby preventing contaminants such as slag and dust from entering the sealed cavity 2. Its advantages include simple, convenient, and low-cost air acquisition. Of course, the medium can also be water, grease, or other fluids, as long as they form a barrier to prevent external contaminants from entering the sealed cavity 2 upon discharge.

[0064] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, such as Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the first seal 101 has a first protrusion 1011 and a second protrusion 1012 disposed opposite to each other. The second seal 102 is located near the second protrusion 1012 and below the second protrusion 1012. The second seal 102 has a third protrusion 1021 opposite to the first protrusion 1011, so as to form a constriction 108 between the first protrusion 1011 and the second protrusion 1012 and the third protrusion 1021 (the first protrusion 1011 is located on one side, and the second protrusion 1011 is located on the other side). 2 and the third protrusion 1021 are located on the opposite side of the first protrusion 1011. A second drainage channel 110 is reserved between the bottom of the second protrusion 1012 and the top of the third protrusion 1021. The inlet of the second drainage channel 110 is connected to the sealing channel 2, and the outlet of the second drainage channel 110 is connected to the constriction 108. When the constriction 108 is open, the sealing grease in the sealing channel 2 can be discharged to the outside after passing through the second drainage channel 110, the constriction 108 and the second drainage 109 in sequence.

[0065] In this embodiment, as Figures 2 to 5 As shown, a first drainage portion 107 is formed inside the first sealing member 101, and a second drainage portion 109 is formed between the first sealing member 101 and the second sealing member 102. The first drainage portion 107 and the second drainage portion 109 are located on the upper and lower sides of the constricted portion 108, respectively (that is, the first drainage portion 107 is located above the constricted portion 108, and the second drainage portion 109 is located below the constricted portion 108). When the constricted portion 108 is open, the bottom of the first drainage portion 107 and the top of the second drainage portion 109 are connected to the constricted portion 108, respectively.

[0066] Furthermore, the second drainage section 109 has an external discharge port (not shown), which is used to discharge the medium in the first drainage cavity and the sealing grease in the sealing cavity.

[0067] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, such as Figures 3 to 5As shown, the sealing device for the tunneling machine also includes a housing 106, with a first sealing element 101 and a second sealing element 102 both located within the housing 106. The first sealing element 101 is a movable element, and a first magnetic element 104 is provided on it. An elastic element 103 is pressed between the first sealing element 101 and the inner wall of the housing 106. The second sealing element 102 is a fixed element, and a second magnetic element 105 is provided on it. When the tunneling machine is operating, the first magnetic element 104 and the second magnetic element 105... The components 105 repel each other, pushing the first sealing component 101 so that its first protrusion 1011 moves away from the third protrusion 1021, thus opening the constriction section 108. When the tunneling machine stops, there is no force between the first magnetic component 104 and the second magnetic component 105, and the elastic component 103 pushes the first sealing component 101 so that its first protrusion 1011 moves away from the third protrusion 1021 until the first protrusion 1011 abuts against the third protrusion 1021, thus closing the constriction section 108. Through the cooperation of the first magnetic component 104, the elastic component 103, and the second magnetic component 105, automatic control of the opening and closing state of the constriction section 108 can be achieved, and the constriction section 108 can seal the sealing cavity 2 regardless of its state, ensuring the long-term stable operation of the tunneling machine. In this embodiment, the first sealing member 101 is a movable member and the second sealing member 102 is a fixed member. The opening and closing control of the constricted portion 108 is achieved by moving the first sealing member 101. Of course, the first sealing member 101 can also be set as a fixed member and the second sealing member 102 can be set as a movable member. The opening and closing control of the constricted portion 108 can be achieved by moving the second sealing member 102.

[0068] Furthermore, the elastic element 103 may be, but is not limited to, a spring.

[0069] In another optional embodiment of the present invention, the elastic member 103 can be omitted. By changing the magnetism of the first magnetic member 104 and the second magnetic member 105, the attraction or repulsion relationship between the first magnetic member 104 and the second magnetic member 105 can be adjusted, thereby realizing the on / off control of the constricted portion 108. Specifically, the first sealing element 101 is a movable element, and a first magnetic element 104 is provided on the first sealing element 101; the second sealing element 102 is a fixed element, and a second magnetic element 105 is provided on the second sealing element 102; when the tunneling machine is working, the first magnetic element 104 and the second magnetic element 105 repel each other, so as to push the first sealing element 101 to move the first protrusion 1011 away from the third protrusion 1021, and the constriction portion 108 is open; when the tunneling machine stops, the magnetism of the first magnetic element 104 or the second magnetic element 105 is changed, so that the first magnetic element 104 and the second magnetic element 105 attract each other, and the first sealing element 101 moves the first protrusion 1011 away from the third protrusion 1021, until the first protrusion 1011 abuts against the third protrusion 1021, and the constriction portion 108 is closed. The automatic control of the on / off state of the constriction section 108 can be achieved by the cooperation of the first magnetic component 104 and the second magnetic component 105. The constriction section 108 can seal the sealing cavity 2 regardless of its state, thus ensuring the long-term stable operation of the tunneling machine.

[0070] Specifically, such as Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the outer shell 106 is an annular cover covering the grease outlet 201 outside the sealed cavity 2. The outer shell 106 is fixedly connected to the drive disc 4 of the tunneling machine by multiple bolts. The second seal 102 is fixedly connected to the drive box 3 of the tunneling machine. The first seal 101 is movably disposed inside the outer shell 106.

[0071] Furthermore, the first magnetic component 104 may be, but is not limited to, a magnet, and the second magnetic component 105 may be, but is not limited to, an armature (or an electromagnet). The armature may be connected to a power supply circuit. By energizing the armature, a repulsive force is generated between the armature and the magnet, thereby pushing the first sealing component 101 to move. When the tunneling machine stops, the power supply to the armature can be stopped, and the repulsive force between the armature and the magnet disappears. Under the action of the elastic force of the elastic component 103, the first sealing component 101 is pushed to the closed position of the constriction portion 108.

[0072] Furthermore, such as Figure 4As shown, when the constriction portion 108 is closed (i.e., when the first seal 101 moves to the position where the first protrusion 1011 and the third protrusion 1021 abut), the first seal 101 moves toward the sealing runway 5 for forming the sealing cavity 2, and at least a portion of the first seal 101 abuts against at least a portion of the sealing runway 5 of the tunneling machine, thereby positioning the moving position of the first seal 101. Moreover, the position where the first seal 101 abuts against the sealing runway 5 can also form a sealing structure, which can further ensure the sealing effect of the sealing cavity 2 when the tunneling machine is stopped.

[0073] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, the sealing cavity 2 is an annular cavity formed between the sealing runway 5 of the tunneling machine and the drive disk 4 of the tunneling machine. The first sealing member 101 and the second sealing member 102 are annular structural members arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity 2. The number of the first drainage cavity and / or the second drainage cavity 110 is one, and the first drainage cavity and / or the second drainage cavity 110 is an annular cavity arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity 2.

[0074] In another optional embodiment of the present invention, the sealing cavity 2 is an annular cavity formed between the sealing runway 5 of the tunneling machine and the drive disc 4 of the tunneling machine. The first sealing member 101 and the second sealing member 102 are annular structural members arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity 2. There are multiple first drainage cavities and / or second drainage cavities 110, and the multiple first drainage cavities and / or multiple second drainage cavities 110 are arc-shaped cavities arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity 2. Compared with overall control, this structure of the first drainage cavity and / or second drainage cavity 110 can provide different suction forces for the sealing grease in different locations of the sealing cavity 2 in sections and regions, thereby being suitable for different pressure conditions in different areas.

[0075] The working process of the sealing device for the tunneling machine of the present invention is as follows: When the tunneling machine is working normally, the second magnetic element 105 (i.e., armature) is energized. Under the action of the repulsive force between the second magnetic element 105 and the first magnetic element 104 (i.e., magnet), the first sealing element 101 overcomes the elastic force of the elastic element 103 and moves away from the second sealing element 102, so that the constriction portion 108 in the first drainage cavity is opened. The medium in the first drainage portion 107 flows sequentially through the first drainage portion 107, the constriction portion 108, and the second drainage portion 109 for external discharge. A barrier (air curtain) is formed at the outlet of the second drainage section 109 to prevent external dust and other contaminants from entering. When the medium flows through the constriction section 108, due to the Venturi effect, a local vacuum or low-pressure area will be formed in the constriction section 108 and / or the second drainage channel 110. At this time, external dust and other contaminants cannot enter. In addition, the formed local vacuum or low-pressure area can also provide suction force for the sealing grease in the sealing channel 2, further preventing external dust and other contaminants from entering the main drive system of the tunneling machine.

[0076] When the tunneling machine stops working, the control of the second magnetic component 105 (i.e., armature) is de-energized, and there is no force between the second magnetic component 105 and the first magnetic component 104 (i.e., magnet). At this time, under the action of the elastic force of the elastic component 103, the first sealing component 101 is pushed to move closer to the second sealing component 102 until the first protrusion 1011 on the first sealing component 101 abuts against the third protrusion 1021 on the second sealing component 102. The constriction portion 108 is closed, preventing external contaminants (such as dust, slag, other fluids, etc.) from entering the main drive system of the tunneling machine, thereby improving the sealing performance of the system.

[0077] The sealing device for tunneling machines of the present invention is applicable not only to the internal sealing structure of the main drive of the tunneling machine, but also to the external sealing structure or hinge structure of the tunneling machine.

[0078] The features and advantages of the sealing device for tunneling machines of the present invention are as follows:

[0079] I. In this sealing device for a tunneling machine, the arrangement of the first and second drainage cavities 110 generates a Venturi effect within the constriction 108 of the first drainage cavity and / or the second drainage cavity 110. This creates a vacuum or low-pressure area within the constriction 108 and / or the second drainage cavity 110, providing suction force to the sealing grease in the sealing cavity 2, thus facilitating the discharge of the sealing grease and improving the sealing effect of the sealing cavity 2. Because this invention provides additional suction force for the sealing grease, in actual operation, even with a reduced amount of sealing grease injected, no contaminants can enter the sealing cavity 2. This not only ensures a good sealing effect but also reduces construction costs, resulting in better economic efficiency.

[0080] II. In the sealing device for this tunneling machine, since the first sealing element 101 and / or the second sealing element 102 are movable, the opening and closing state of the constriction section 108 can be controlled by adjusting the relative position of the first sealing element 101 and the second sealing element 102. When the constriction section 108 is open, the medium in the first drainage section 107 flows sequentially through the first drainage section 107, the constriction section 108, and the second drainage section 109 for discharge, thereby blocking external pollutants and preventing them from entering the sealing cavity 2 of the tunneling machine. In addition, the sealing grease that is sucked out and sprayed into the sealing cavity 2 forms a barrier, further preventing external pollutants from intruding into the sealing cavity 2, thereby achieving a better sealing effect. When the constriction section 108 is closed, it blocks the connection between the sealing cavity 2 and the outside, maintaining the sealing effect of the sealing cavity 2 even when the tunneling machine is not working, improving the sealing capacity of the tunneling machine's sealing structure and enhancing the reliability of the tunneling machine.

[0081] Third, the sealing device for the tunneling machine can be directly added to the grease outlet 201 of the original sealing cavity 2 of the tunneling machine without modifying the original sealing structure of the tunneling machine. It has strong applicability and is easy to disassemble and assemble.

[0082] Fourth, traditional sealing systems prevent contaminants from entering the main drive system by using a "maze" sealing structure and continuous injection of sealing grease. However, the sealing device for tunneling machines of this invention can achieve the "closure" of the sealing cavity 2 through electromagnetic control, ensuring a good sealing effect even when the tunneling machine is stopped. When the tunneling machine is operating, the Venturi principle can prevent the intrusion of external contaminants, while also sucking out the sealing grease, thus improving the sealing effect of the sealing cavity 2.

[0083] Implementation Method 2

[0084] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the present invention provides a tunneling machine, which includes the aforementioned sealing device 1 for tunneling machines and a sealing cavity 2 for preventing external contaminants from entering. The sealing device 1 for tunneling machines is disposed at or near the grease outlet 201 of the sealing cavity 2.

[0085] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the tunneling machine includes a drive box 3, a drive disc 4, a cutterhead (not shown), and a drive unit (not shown). The drive disc 4 is arranged around the outer periphery of the drive box 3. The drive disc 4 is connected to both the cutterhead and the internal gear ring 7. The teeth on the internal gear ring 7 mesh with the teeth on the gear sleeved on the output shaft of the drive unit. The output shaft of the drive unit can drive the drive disc 4 and the cutterhead to rotate circumferentially relative to the drive box 3, thereby performing tunneling operations. The drive unit can be, but is not limited to, an electric motor or a hydraulic motor.

[0086] Furthermore, such as Figures 1 to 5 As shown, an annular sealing track 5 is fixedly arranged on the outer wall of the drive box 3 along its circumference. The sealing cavity 2 is formed between the top surface of the sealing track 5 and the bottom surface of the drive disc 4. The sealing cavity 2 has a grease inlet (not shown) and a grease outlet 201. Multiple lip seals 9 are arranged at intervals along its axial direction in the sealing cavity 2. A sealing spacer 10 is pressed between two adjacent lip seals 9. The sealing grease enters into the sealing cavity 2 through the grease inlet, and at least part of the sealing grease is discharged through the grease outlet 201, thereby achieving the sealing of the main drive system of the tunneling machine.

[0087] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the tunneling machine also includes a shield body 8, and the drive box 3, drive disc 4, drive device and internal gear ring 7 are all located inside the shield body 8.

[0088] In this invention, the sealing device 1 for the tunneling machine is externally installed at or near the grease outlet 201 of the sealing cavity 2, allowing it to be directly installed on the already designed tunneling machine. Of course, for other sealing systems, the sealing device 1 for the tunneling machine of this invention can also be installed independently or integrated into the grease outlet 201 of the sealing cavity 2.

[0089] In an optional embodiment of the present invention, a tunneling machine sealing device 1 is provided at or near the grease outlet 201 of the sealing cavity 2. Of course, multiple tunneling machine sealing devices 1 can also be provided at or near the grease outlet 201 of the sealing cavity 2 according to actual sealing requirements. The multiple tunneling machine sealing devices 1 are connected in series.

[0090] During operation, the tunneling machine of this invention drives the internal gear ring 7 to rotate via a drive device. The internal gear ring 7 is connected to the drive disc 4 via multiple bolts. The drive disc 4 is connected to the cutterhead and sealing pressure ring 6 via multiple bolts. The rotation of the output shaft of the drive device realizes the rotation of the cutterhead and the cutting of the tunnel by the cutterhead. Since the drive disc 4 rotates around the axis of the drive box 3 while the drive box 3 remains stationary, to prevent external contaminants such as dust, rock debris, and fluids from entering the sealing cavity 2 during tunneling, multiple lip seals 9 are installed in the sealing cavity 2. Adjacent lip seals 9 are separated by sealing spacers 10, forming multiple chambers. The main drive system of the tunneling machine is lubricated and sealed by injecting sealing greases such as HBW, EP2, and gear oil into the chambers.

[0091] The tunneling machine of the present invention has the features and advantages of the sealing device for tunneling machines described above, which will not be repeated here.

[0092] The above description is merely an illustrative embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Any equivalent changes and modifications made by those skilled in the art without departing from the concept and principles of the present invention should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sealing device for a tunneling machine, used to seal sealing cavities in the tunneling machine, characterized in that, The sealing device for the tunneling machine includes a first sealing element and a second sealing element, wherein the first sealing element and the second sealing element cooperate to form at least one first drainage channel; The first drainage cavity includes at least a first drainage section, a constricted section, and a second drainage section connected in sequence. The flow area of ​​the first drainage section and the flow area of ​​the second drainage section are both greater than the flow area of ​​the constricted section. The first sealing member and / or the second sealing member are movably disposed to control the on / off state of the constricted section. A second drainage channel is reserved between the first seal and the second seal. The second drainage channel is used to connect the sealing channel and the constriction. When the constriction is open, the medium in the first drainage section flows sequentially through the first drainage section, the constriction, and the second drainage section, and forms a vacuum or low-pressure area in the constriction and / or the second drainage channel to provide suction force for the sealing grease in the sealing channel to be discharged. When the constricted portion is closed, the constricted portion blocks the communication between the sealed cavity and the outside. The first sealing member has a first protrusion and a second protrusion disposed opposite to each other. The second sealing member is located near the second protrusion. The second sealing member has a third protrusion opposite to the first protrusion, so as to form the constriction between the first protrusion, the second protrusion and the third protrusion. A second drainage channel is reserved between the second protrusion and the third protrusion. The inlet of the second drainage channel is diaphragmably connected to the sealing channel, and the outlet of the second drainage channel is diaphragmably connected to the constriction.

2. The sealing device for a tunneling machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first drainage portion is formed inside the first seal, and the second drainage portion is formed between the first seal and the second seal. The first drainage portion and the second drainage portion are respectively located on both sides of the constricted portion. When the constricted portion is open, the first drainage portion and the second drainage portion are respectively connected to the constricted portion.

3. The sealing device for a tunneling machine as described in any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that, The second drainage section has an external discharge port, which is used to discharge the medium in the first drainage cavity and the sealing grease in the sealing cavity.

4. The sealing device for a tunneling machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing device for the tunneling machine also includes a housing, and both the first seal and the second seal are located inside the housing; The first sealing element is a movable element, and a first magnetic element is provided on the first sealing element; The second sealing element is a fixing element, and a second magnetic element is provided on the second sealing element; When the tunneling machine is working, the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component repel each other, thereby pushing the first seal to move the first protrusion on it away from the third protrusion, and the constricted portion becomes open; When the tunneling machine stops, the magnetism of the first magnetic component or the second magnetic component is changed so that the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component attract each other. The first seal moves the first protrusion on it away from the third protrusion until the first protrusion abuts against the third protrusion, and the constriction is closed.

5. The sealing device for a tunneling machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing device for the tunneling machine also includes a housing, and both the first seal and the second seal are located inside the housing; The first sealing element is a movable element, and a first magnetic element is provided on the first sealing element. An elastic element is pressed between the first sealing element and the inner wall of the outer shell. The second sealing element is a fixing element, and a second magnetic element is provided on the second sealing element; When the tunneling machine is working, the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component repel each other, thereby pushing the first seal to move the first protrusion on it away from the third protrusion, and the constricted portion becomes open; When the tunneling machine stops, there is no force between the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component. The elastic component pushes the first sealing component to move the first protrusion away from the third protrusion until the first protrusion abuts against the third protrusion, and the constricted portion closes.

6. The sealing device for a tunneling machine as described in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, When the constricted section is closed, at least a portion of the first seal can abut against at least a portion of the sealing runway of the tunneling machine.

7. The sealing device for a tunneling machine as described in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The outer shell is an annular structure covering the grease outlet of the sealed cavity. The outer shell is fixedly connected to the drive disc of the tunneling machine. The second seal is fixedly connected to the drive box of the tunneling machine. The first seal is movably disposed inside the outer shell.

8. The sealing device for a tunneling machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sealing cavity is an annular cavity formed between the sealing runway of the tunneling machine and the drive disc of the tunneling machine. The first sealing member and the second sealing member are annular structural members arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity. The first drainage cavity and / or the second drainage cavity are annular cavities arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity.

9. The sealing device for a tunneling machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sealing cavity is an annular cavity formed between the sealing runway of the tunneling machine and the drive disc of the tunneling machine. The first sealing member and the second sealing member are annular structural members arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity. There are multiple first drainage cavities and / or multiple second drainage cavities, and each of the multiple first drainage cavities and / or multiple second drainage cavities is an arc-shaped cavity arranged circumferentially along the sealing cavity.

10. A tunneling machine, characterized in that, The tunneling machine includes a sealing device for the tunneling machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and a sealed cavity to prevent external contaminants from entering, wherein the sealing device for the tunneling machine is disposed at or near the grease outlet of the sealed cavity.

11. The tunneling machine as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The tunneling machine includes a drive box, a drive disc, a cutterhead, and a drive device. The drive disc is arranged around the outer periphery of the drive box. The drive disc is connected to the cutterhead and an internal gear ring. The teeth on the internal gear ring mesh with the teeth on the gear sleeved on the output shaft of the drive device to drive the drive disc and the cutterhead to rotate circumferentially relative to the drive box.

12. The tunneling machine as described in claim 11, characterized in that, An annular sealing track is provided on the outer wall of the drive box along its circumference. The sealing cavity is formed between the sealing track and the drive disc. The sealing cavity has a grease inlet and a grease outlet. Multiple lip seals are arranged at intervals along its axial direction in the sealing cavity. A sealing spacer is pressed between two adjacent lip seals. Sealing grease enters the sealing cavity through the grease inlet and at least a portion of the sealing grease is discharged through the grease outlet.

13. The tunneling machine as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The tunneling machine also includes a shield body, and the drive box, the drive disc, the drive device and the internal gear ring are all located inside the shield body.

Citation Information

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