Bottom joint for fluid loading and unloading tank car and loading and unloading device

Abstract

The invention discloses a bottom joint for a fluid loading and unloading tank car and a loading and unloading device, the joint comprises a first joint body matched with a male joint fixed on the tank car, a second joint body and a third joint body are arranged between the first joint body and the front end of a loading and unloading arm, and a space for accommodating a liquid discharge column is formed inside the first joint body, the second joint body and the third joint body; a locking anti-falling mechanism is arranged on the first joint body; the locking anti-falling mechanism comprises a first oscillating cylinder, a first oscillating shaft, a plug pin driving disc, a plug pin and a guide pin, the first oscillating cylinder is in driving connection with the first oscillating shaft, the plug pin driving disc is connected to the first oscillating shaft, and the plug pin driving disc has the freedom degree in the circumferential direction of the first oscillating shaft; a Z-shaped guide sliding groove is formed in the plug pin driving disc, a guide pin on the plug pin is connected with the Z-shaped guide sliding groove in a matched mode, and the Z-shaped guide sliding groove is divided into a large arc section, a middle curve section and a small arc section. The device is suitable for loading and unloading dangerous media such as liquid chemical raw materials and oil products, manual intervention is reduced, and safety and efficiency are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of fluid loading and unloading technology, specifically relating to a bottom connector and loading and unloading device for a fluid loading and unloading tanker. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the fluid loading and unloading industry is developing towards automation and intelligence. Due to its advantages such as small footprint, long operating distance, and low risk of media leakage, bottom loading arms for tank trucks are gradually replacing traditional top loading and unloading equipment, becoming the core equipment for loading and unloading hazardous media such as liquid chemical raw materials and oils. Compared to top loading and unloading, bottom loading and unloading can minimize the close contact between operators and hazardous media, fundamentally reducing the probability of safety accidents such as poisoning and explosions, while also improving the standardization and efficiency of the operation process.

[0003] However, in existing tank truck bottom loading and unloading operations, the bottom joint, as a core connecting component, still faces significant technical bottlenecks:

[0004] 1. High dependence on manual operation: Traditional bottom connectors require manual docking and locking - operators need to manually align the connector with the tank truck male connector and then tighten and lock it with a mechanical wrench. This is labor-intensive, cumbersome, and requires direct exposure to the potential media leakage hazard of the connector.

[0005] 2. The problem of residual liquid is prominent: When manually unlocking and disconnecting after loading and unloading, the residual liquid inside the joint will leak out, which will not only waste materials, but also pollute the surrounding environment;

[0006] 3. Lack of full-process automation: Although some improvement solutions add manual drain valves or simple mechanical limit devices, they can only solve the problem of a single link and cannot achieve full-process automation of "docking-locking-filling-draining-disconnection";

[0007] 4. Insufficient safety adaptability: Some solutions use electric drive, which poses a risk of electric sparks and is not suitable for loading and unloading flammable and explosive media.

[0008] In summary, the industry urgently needs a bottom connector that can achieve full-process automation through a safe driving method (such as pneumatics) while taking into account both anti-detachment and residual liquid control, in order to fill the technological gap in the automation of bottom loading and unloading of tank trucks.

[0009] Therefore, in order to address the above-mentioned technical problems, it is necessary to provide a bottom connector and loading / unloading device for a fluid loading / unloading tanker. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a bottom connector and loading / unloading device for fluid loading and unloading tank trucks, which is suitable for bottom loading and unloading operations of tank trucks carrying flammable, explosive, or toxic and harmful fluid media such as liquid chemical raw materials and oil. It can achieve full automation of the "docking-locking-filling-draining-disconnection" process through pneumatic drive, reduce manual intervention, reduce the risk of residual liquid and leakage, and promote the industrial application of automated bottom loading and unloading technology for tank trucks.

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, a specific embodiment of the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0012] A bottom connector for a fluid loading and unloading tanker includes a first connector body that mates with a male connector with a locking groove fixed on the tanker. A second connector body and a third connector body are provided between the first connector body and the front end of the loading and unloading arm, and the three bodies form a space to accommodate the drain column. The first connector body is provided with a locking and anti-detachment mechanism. The locking and anti-detachment mechanism is used to lock the connector body and the male connector and prevent them from falling off.

[0013] The locking anti-disengagement mechanism includes a first swing cylinder, a first swing shaft, a pin drive disc, a pin, and a guide pin. The first swing cylinder is driven and connected to the first swing shaft, and the pin drive disc is connected to the first swing shaft. The pin drive disc has a degree of freedom of movement along the circumference of the first swing shaft. The pin drive disc has a "Z"-shaped guide groove, and the guide pin on the pin is connected to it. The "Z"-shaped guide groove is divided into a large arc segment, a middle curve segment, and a small arc segment. The large arc segment and the small arc segment are used to adapt to the working state of the first swing cylinder, and the middle curve segment is used to transmit the radial movement of the pin.

[0014] In the locked state, the end of the pin furthest from the guide pin engages with the locking groove.

[0015] The locking anti-detachment mechanism, the drainage mechanism, and the detachment self-sealing mechanism are pneumatically driven to automate the docking, locking, filling, drainage, and disconnection of the connectors, thereby automating the loading of tank trucks at the bottom.

[0016] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the first connector body is provided with a draining mechanism for opening / closing the flow channel and draining residual liquid. The draining mechanism includes a second swing cylinder, a second swing shaft, a pin, a rotating cylinder, a drain column with a fixed guide pin, a front support plate, and a rear support plate. The rotating cylinder is disposed outside the drain column and the two are coaxially arranged. The rotating cylinder has a segmented slide groove that cooperates with the guide pin. The segmented slide groove is divided into a front arc, a middle spiral section, and a rear arc. The second swing cylinder is driven and connected to the second swing shaft. The second swing shaft is provided with a pin. The second connector body has a fan-shaped notch. The pin has a degree of freedom to move along the notch within the fan-shaped notch. The pin drives the rotating cylinder, and the rotating cylinder has a degree of freedom to move circumferentially along the second swing shaft. The front arc and the rear arc are used to adapt to the working state of the second swing cylinder. The middle spiral section is used to drive the drain column to move axially. The rear support plate is provided with a guide key. The guide key cooperates with the guide groove arranged axially on the drain column to restrict the drain column to move only axially and not rotate.

[0017] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the first connector body is provided with a self-closing mechanism for detachment. The self-closing mechanism is used to close the liquid passage in case of accidental detachment. The self-closing mechanism includes a self-closing disc, a push rod, and a spring. The front support disc has a liquid passage hole that cooperates with the drain column and is located between the first connector body and the second connector body. The self-closing disc is provided with a third sealing gasket, which can be opened or closed with the front support disc. The first connector body is provided with a first through hole. One end of the push rod, which defines the hole, is movably connected to the first through hole and protrudes into the cavity of the first connector body (the cavity is used to accommodate the male connector during operation). The other end is fixedly connected to the self-closing disc. The spring is sleeved on the outside of the push rod to provide a forward restoring force for the push rod.

[0018] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the design parameters of the "Z"-shaped guide groove are as follows: when the male connector is locked to the connector body, the distance r_AB between the center point A of the connector body and the center point B of the guide pin is 80mm, and the center point B of the guide pin is located at the intersection of the small arc segment and the middle curve segment, and coincides with the right end point of the small arc segment; when the male connector is unlocked to the connector body, the distance r_AC between the center point A of the connector body and the left end point C of the large arc segment is 100mm.

[0019] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the length of each segment of the "Z"-shaped guide groove can be calculated using the following formula:

[0020] The length of the small arc segment DB is: DB = (θ1 / 360) × 2πr_AB, where r_AB is the distance between the center point A of the first connector body and the center point B of the guide pin when the male connector is locked to the first connector body. Given θ1 = 32° and r_AB = 80mm, we calculate DB = 44.6mm.

[0021] The length of the large circular arc segment CE is: CE = (θ² / 360) × 2πr_AC, where r_AC is the distance between the center point A of the first connector body and the endpoint C of the large circular arc segment of the "Z"-shaped guide groove when the male connector is unlocked from the first connector body. Given θ² = 28° and r_AC = 100mm, CE = 48.7mm is calculated.

[0022] The pin moves radially at a constant velocity v, and the pin-driven disk rotates at a constant angular velocity ω. The trajectory of the guide pin is a variant of the Archimedean spiral, and its Cartesian coordinate system parametric equations are: x = (r_AB + vt)sin(ωt), y = (r_AB + vt)cos(ωt). The polar coordinate relationship is: r_s = r_AB + (v / ω) × θ3, where r_s is the radius distance of the guide pin from the center point A, and θ3 = ωt.

[0023] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the design parameters of the segmented chute of the rotating drum are as follows: the rotation angle from the upper end M of the front arc of the rotating drum to the lower end N of the rear arc is 120°, and the swing error of the swing cylinder is ±2°; the central angle ∠MOK corresponding to the front arc is equal to the central angle ∠JON corresponding to the rear arc, which is 7.5 times the swing error = 30°, and the central angle ∠KOJ corresponding to the middle curve segment is 120° - ∠MOK - ∠JON = 60°; the radius of each segment of the segmented chute is centered on the center O of the drain column, and r_MO = r_KO = r_JO = r_NO = 120mm.

[0024] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the length of each segment of the segmented chute of the rotary drum can be:

[0025] The length of the front arc segment MK: MK = (θ4 / 360) × 2πr_MO. Where θ4 = 30°, r_MO = 120mm, MK = 62.8mm is calculated;

[0026] The length of the rear arc segment JN is: JN = (θ5 / 360) × 2πr_JO. Where θ5 = 30°, r_JO = 120mm, and JN = 62.8mm is calculated.

[0027] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the length of the intermediate curve segment KJ can be: the arc length PJ from point K to point J of the pin is (60 / 360) × 2π × 120 = 125.6 mm, the moving distance of the drain column is KP = 100 mm, according to the right triangle theorem, KJ² = KP² + PJ² = 100² + 125.6² = 25775.3 mm², and KJ = 160.5 mm is calculated.

[0028] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the locking anti-loosening mechanism's pin achieves self-locking through the cooperation of a guide pin and a "Z"-shaped guide groove:

[0029] When the guide pin is in the small arc segment, the pin is inserted into the locking groove of the male connector. The small arc segment restricts the radial movement of the guide pin. The pin drive disc needs to overcome resistance to rotate, thus achieving pin locking and self-locking.

[0030] When the guide pin is in the large arc section, the pin exits the locking groove. The large arc section restricts the radial movement of the guide pin, preventing the pin from moving accidentally when the pneumatic system is not operating.

[0031] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the outer circle of the front part of the drain column mates with the inner hole of the male connector. Here, the mating clearance is required to be as small as possible. The front end face of the drain column is a concave surface corresponding to the shape of the valve core inside the ball valve in front of the male connector. Before filling, the second swing cylinder drives the rotating drum to rotate. The segmented sliding groove of the rotating drum drives the drain column to move backward through the guide pin, opening the flow channel between the connector body and the male connector. After filling, the second swing cylinder drives in the reverse direction, and the drain column moves forward, squeezing the liquid in the male connector channel to discharge and close the flow channel.

[0032] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the front support plate is provided with a liquid passage hole. The operation process of the detachment self-sealing mechanism is as follows: when in the docking state, the male connector pushes the push rod to move backward, causing the self-sealing plate to separate from the front support plate, and the liquid passage hole is opened; when accidentally detached, the spring pushes the push rod to move forward, the self-sealing plate fits with the front support plate, and the third sealing gasket blocks the liquid passage hole, realizing the self-sealing of the liquid path.

[0033] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the first connector body is further provided with a first sealing gasket, a second sealing gasket, a first sealing ring, a second sealing ring, a second cover, and a first cover; the first sealing gasket is used for sealing the joint between the connector body and the male connector, the second sealing gasket is used for sealing when the drain column closes the flow channel, the first sealing ring is used for sealing the fan-shaped notch of the second connector body, the second sealing ring is used for sealing between the drain column and the front support plate, and the second cover and the first cover are respectively used to close the output end of the second swing cylinder and the output end of the first swing cylinder.

[0034] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the fluid loading and unloading device includes a bottom connector for a fluid loading and unloading tanker according to any one of claims 1-9.

[0035] Compared with existing technologies, the bottom connector and loading / unloading device for fluid loading / unloading tank trucks of the present invention features a locking anti-detachment mechanism that adapts to cylinder errors and achieves self-locking through a "Z"-shaped guide chute; a drainage mechanism that drives the drainage column axially through a segmented rotary drum chute to reduce residual liquid volume; and a detachment self-sealing mechanism that achieves liquid path self-sealing in case of accidental detachment through spring reset. This is suitable for loading and unloading hazardous media such as liquid chemical raw materials and oils, reducing manual intervention and improving safety and efficiency. The connector's fully automated operation is achieved through pneumatic drive, and the optimized "Z"-shaped guide chute and segmented rotary drum chute ensure reliable locking and efficient drainage. The detachment self-sealing mechanism also solves the problem of leakage in case of accidental detachment, ultimately achieving automated bottom loading of tank trucks. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the mating state of the bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of embodiment AA;

[0039] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of BB direction in the embodiment;

[0040] Figure 4 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of CC direction in the embodiment;

[0041] Figure 5 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of DD direction in the embodiment;

[0042] Figure 6 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of EE direction in the embodiment;

[0043] Figure 7 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of FF direction in the embodiment;

[0044] Figure 8 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of embodiment GG.

[0045] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0046] Figure 11-Drainage column, 2-Pin, 3-Guide pin, 4-First sealing gasket, 5-Second sealing gasket, 6-Push rod, 7-Third sealing gasket, 8-Guide pin, 9-Rotating cylinder, 10-Second cover, 11-Pulling pin, 12-Second connector body, 13-Third connector body, 14-Rear support plate, 15-Second swing cylinder, 16-Second sealing ring, 17-Self-sealing plate, 18-Front support plate, 19-First sealing ring, 20-Spring, 21-First swing cylinder, 22-Pin drive plate, 23-First cover, 24-First connector body, 25-Male connector;

[0047] Figure 2 Regarding the insertion and removal structure of the pin, the positional relationship between the "Z"-shaped guide groove 26 and the guide pin 3 is shown: A. Center of the connector body, B. Center of the guide pin, C. Left end of the large arc.

[0048] Figure 3 Regarding the structure of the swing cylinder, the first swing shaft 27, cylinder body 28, stator block 29, fourth sealing gasket 30, and blade 31 of the first swing cylinder 21 are shown.

[0049] Figure 4 Regarding the structure of the front support plate, the front support plate 18, the fluid passage hole 32, the first sealing ring 19, and the drain column 1 are shown.

[0050] Figure 5 Regarding the structure of the rear support plate, the rear support plate 14, the fluid passage 33, and the guide key 34 are shown.

[0051] Figure 6 Regarding the structure of the self-sealing disc, the self-sealing disc 17, the top rod 6, and the third sealing gasket 7 are shown.

[0052] Figure 7 Regarding the rotary drive structure of the drum, the connection relationship between the second swing shaft 35, the pin 11 and the drum 9, and the fan-shaped notch 36 on the second connector body 12 are shown.

[0053] Figure 8 Regarding the drive structure of the rotating drum and the drain column, the segmented slide groove 37, guide pin 8, drain column 1 and vertical point P of the rotating drum 9 are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0054] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this disclosure, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0055] like Figure 1-8As shown in one embodiment of the bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck of the present invention, it includes a first connector body 24, a locking anti-detachment mechanism, a drainage mechanism, and a self-sealing mechanism for detachment:

[0056] The first connector body 24 is used to directly mate with the male connector 25 fixed on the tank truck. It has a first chamber for accommodating the male connector, and the first chamber has an annular bottom. A first flow channel for the end of the drain column 1 to pass through is located at the center of the annular bottom. A first through hole is provided on the annular bottom. A pin hole is provided on the side wall of the first chamber. The pin 2, located inside the first cover 23 outside the first connector body 24, reciprocates under the drive of the guide pin 3, achieving downward movement in the locked state. Figure 1 The pin 2 is positioned so that it moves into the first chamber and engages with the locking groove of the male connector 25 located in the first chamber (the end of the pin 2 is engaged in the locking groove) to complete the locking. In the unlocked state, it moves upward to disengage from the first chamber and unlocks from the locking groove of the male connector 25, so that the male connector 25 can be pulled out.

[0057] The first connector body 24 and the second connector body 12 are sequentially installed on the third connector body 13 at the front end of the loading and unloading arm, and their docking and disengagement with the male connector 25 can be controlled by the loading and unloading arm. The first connector body 24, the second connector body 12 and the third connector body 13 all have axially arranged spaces to form a space to accommodate the drain column and liquid flow. In order to prevent leakage, a second chamber is also formed on the other side of the annular bottom. In order to make the drain column 1 and the first flow channel normally closed under normal conditions (i.e., the male connector 25 is unlocked), a first step is also provided on the drain column 1 to seal the first flow channel.

[0058] Locking and anti-disengagement: This function is mainly achieved through the cooperation between the first swing cylinder 21, the first swing shaft 27, the pin drive disk 22, the pin 2, and the guide pin 3. In the working state, the blade 31 in the first swing cylinder 21 is connected to the first swing shaft 27, and the first swing shaft 27 is fixed to the pin drive disk 22; the pin drive disk 22 has a "Z"-shaped guide groove 26, one end of the guide pin 3 is fixed to the pin 2, and the other end is embedded in the groove 26; when pneumatically driven, the blade 31 drives the first swing shaft 27 and the pin drive disk 22 to rotate, and the groove 26 drives the pin 2 to move radially through the guide pin 3, so as to lock the pin into the male connector locking groove or unlock the pin from the locking groove, and the large / small arc section of the groove can be adapted to the working state of the cylinder and achieve self-locking.

[0059] Drainage: This function is mainly achieved through the cooperation between the second swing cylinder 15, the second swing shaft 35, the pry pin 11, the rotating drum 9, the guide pin 8, the drainage column 1, the front support plate 18, and the rear support plate 14. A segmented slide groove is provided on the rotating drum 9 along the axis of the drainage column 1. This segmented slide groove sequentially includes a first section, a second section, and a third section from the third connector body 13 towards the first connector body 24 (in order as shown below). Figure 8 (NJ segment, JK segment, and KM segment shown). The rear support plate 14 is fixed between the second connector body 12 and the third connector body 13. The guide key 34 on it cooperates with the guide groove on the drain column 1 to restrict the drain column 1 to move only axially. The second swing cylinder 15 drives the second swing shaft 35, which drives the pin 11 to rotate in the fan-shaped notch 36 and drive the rotating drum 9 to rotate. The segmented sliding groove of the rotating drum 9 drives the drain column 1 to move axially through the guide pin 8. During filling, the drain column moves backward to open the first flow channel. After filling, it moves forward to squeeze the residual liquid and close the first flow channel.

[0060] Self-sealing upon detachment: This function is mainly achieved through the cooperation of the self-sealing disc 17, the push rod 6, and the spring 20. The self-sealing disc 17 is connected to one end of the push rod 6, and the other end of the push rod 6 is movably disposed on the annular bottom with a first through hole and protruding into the cavity of the first connector body 24, protruding to receive the contact of the male connector 25 in the working state to open the flow channel. At the same time, the main body of the push rod 6 passes through the limiting hole of the front support disc 18, so that the spring 20 and the self-sealing disc 17 are respectively located on both sides of the limiting hole, and the diameter of both is larger than the diameter of the limiting hole. In addition, a fixing member is provided on the other end of the spring 20 on the push rod to cooperate with the self-sealing disc 17 to realize the elastic reset function of the push rod 6. The front support plate 18 has a fluid passage hole 32. A third sealing gasket 7 is provided between the front support plate 18 and the self-sealing plate 17 to form a seal on the fluid passage hole 32 in the unlocked state. During docking, the male connector pushes the push rod backward, the self-sealing plate separates from the front support plate, and the fluid passage hole is opened. In case of accidental detachment, the spring pushes the push rod, the self-sealing plate fits against the front support plate, and the sealing gasket blocks the fluid passage hole, realizing the self-sealing of the fluid path. The fixing member abuts against the annular bottom of the first chamber in the unlocked state, and disengages from the annular bottom in the locked state.

[0061] Therefore, the annular bottom of the first connector body 24 is sealed with a first sealing gasket 4 and a second sealing gasket 5 at their joints. The second sealing ring 16 is disposed between the inner wall of the rotating cylinder 9 and the second connector body 12, and the first sealing ring 19 is disposed between the front support plate 18 and the drain column 1. The second cover 10 is used to close the exposed parts of the push pin 11 and its associated structure, and the first cover 23 is used to close the exposed parts of the guide pin 3 and its associated structure to ensure overall sealing.

[0062] In a specific embodiment, such as the 5-inch tank truck connector, it is suitable for scenarios where the vehicle's net weight is over 8 tons and the requirements for load-bearing capacity and sealing are high. The core component parameters are as follows:

[0063] Locking anti-detachment mechanism: "Z" shaped guide groove 26 with small arc segment DB=44.6mm, large arc segment CE=48.7mm, and middle curve segment BC=50.4mm; swing cylinder 21 is a 90° rotating cylinder with an error of ±2°;

[0064] Drainage mechanism: The front arc of the 9-segmented chute of the rotating drum is MK=62.8mm, the rear arc is JN=62.8mm, and the middle curved section is KJ=160.5mm; the drainage column 1 moves 100mm, the front outer circle and the inner hole of the male connector 25 have a very small clearance, and the front end face is a concave surface corresponding to the ball valve core;

[0065] Self-closing mechanism for detachment: The spring force of spring 20 must ensure that in the event of accidental detachment, the push rod 6 is pushed forward within 0.5 seconds, so that the self-closing disc 17 is in contact with the front support disc 18;

[0066] Sealing components: The first sealing gasket 4 and the second sealing gasket 5 are made of oil-resistant nitrile rubber, and the second sealing ring 16 and the first sealing ring 19 are made of fluororubber to ensure resistance to media corrosion.

[0067] Assembly Relationship: The first connector body 24 is fixed to the connector body 13 of the loading and unloading arm; the front support plate 18 and the rear support plate 14 are respectively fixed to the front and rear ends inside the first connector body 24; the drain column 1 passes through the front support plate 18 and the rear support plate 14, and is restricted to axial movement by the guide key 34; the rotating cylinder 9 is sleeved on the outside of the drain column 1 and is connected to the swing shaft 35 by the pin 11; the pin drive plate 22 is connected to the first swing cylinder 21 by the first swing shaft 27, and the pin 2 slides along the pin hole on the first connector body 24; one end of the push rod 6 is connected to the self-sealing plate 17, and the other end extends out of the front support plate 18. The spring 20 is sleeved on the outside of the push rod 6 to realize the elastic reset of the self-sealing plate 17 and realize the normal closure of the liquid passage in the non-working state.

[0068] Process flow description:

[0069] During the docking stage: The male connector 25 is fixed to the tank truck, and the loading and unloading arm drives the first connector body 24 to move, so that the male connector 25 is inserted into the inner hole of the first connector body 24; before docking, the self-sealing plate 17 and the front support plate 18 are in contact with the liquid passage hole 32, which is normally closed. After the male connector 25 is inserted, the push rod 6 is pushed to move backward, the self-sealing plate 17 and the front support plate 18 are separated, and the liquid passage hole 32 is opened.

[0070] Locking stage: Compressed gas is introduced into the first swing cylinder 21, and the vane 31 drives the first swing shaft 27 and the pin drive disk 22 to rotate; the middle curve section of the "Z"-shaped guide groove 26 pushes the guide pin 3 from the large arc section to the small arc section, driving the pin 2 to extend radially into the locking groove of the male connector 25; after the guide pin 3 enters the small arc section, the pin 2 self-locks, completing the locking;

[0071] Filling stage: Open the ball valve between the tank truck and the male connector 25 to introduce compressed gas into the second swing cylinder 15; the blades drive the second swing shaft 35 and the pin 11 to rotate, and the pin 11 drives the rotating drum 9 to rotate; the segmented slide of the rotating drum 9 pushes the guide pin 8 to move to the right (towards... Figure 1From the observer's perspective, the liquid discharge column 1 moves axially to the right (from the observer's perspective in the drawing), opening the first flow channel between the first connector body 24 and the male connector 25; the liquid flows into the tank through the first flow channel, the male connector 25, and the ball valve.

[0072] Drainage stage: After filling is completed, compressed gas is introduced into the second swing cylinder 15 in the reverse direction, which drives the rotating drum 9 to rotate in the reverse direction; the segmented slide pushes the guide pin 8 to move to the left, which drives the drainage column 1 to move to the left along the axis; the front end of the drainage column 1 squeezes the residual liquid in the male connector 25 channel and discharges the residual liquid into the tank; when the drainage column 1 moves to the front end, the first flow channel is closed, and the drainage is completed;

[0073] Disconnection phase: Close the ball valve between the tank truck and the male connector 25, and reverse the flow of compressed gas into the first swing cylinder 21, causing the pin drive disc 22 to rotate in the opposite direction; the "Z"-shaped guide groove 26 pushes the guide pin 3 to move from the small arc segment to the large arc segment, causing the pin 2 to exit the locking groove of the male connector 25; the loading and unloading arm drives the connector body 24 to move and disengage from the male connector 25, completing one work cycle;

[0074] Accidental detachment handling: If the first connector body 24 and the male connector 25 accidentally detach during the filling process, the spring 20 loses the pushing force of the male connector 25 on the push rod 6. Under the action of the spring force, the push rod 6 moves forward, causing the self-sealing plate 17 to quickly fit with the front support plate 18; the third sealing gasket 7 blocks the liquid passage hole 32, and the liquid in the first connector body 24 no longer overflows, realizing the self-sealing of the liquid path.

[0075] Specifically: when the male connector 25 is locked to the first connector body 24, the distance between the center point A of the first connector body 24 and the center point B of the guide pin 3 is... =80mm, the center point B of guide pin 3 is located at the intersection of the small arc segment and the middle curve segment and coincides with the right end point of the small arc segment; when unlocking, the distance between the center point A and the left end point C of the large arc segment is... =100mm; the first swing cylinder 21 is a 90° rotating cylinder, that is, when the guide pin 3 moves from locked to unlocked, the pin drive disk 22 rotates by an angle ∠DAE=90°, and the swing error of the first swing cylinder 21 is ±2°; to avoid accidental locking or unlocking, the central angle ∠DAB corresponding to the small arc segment is 8 times the swing error = 32°, the central angle ∠CAE corresponding to the large arc segment is 7 times the swing error = 28°, and the central angle ∠BAC corresponding to the middle curve segment is ∠DAE-∠DAB-∠CAE=30°; the length of each segment is calculated according to the following formula:

[0076] Length of the small arc segment DB: Where θ = 32°, =80mm, calculated as follows ;

[0077] Length of the large circular arc segment CE: Where θ = 28°, =100mm, calculated as follows ;

[0078] The "Z"-shaped structure also reduces the risk of accidental rotation of the pin-driven disc 22 due to cylinder leakage.

[0079] Furthermore, the locking anti-detachment mechanism has a self-locking function: when the guide pin 3 is in the small arc segment or large arc segment of the guide slide 26, the small arc segment or large arc segment restricts the guide pin 3 from moving radially along the pin drive disk 22, and the pin drive disk 22 needs to overcome resistance to rotate, ensuring that the pin 2 will not move accidentally when the pneumatic system is not in operation, thus ensuring the reliability of the docking lock.

[0080] Further: The drainage mechanism includes a second swing cylinder 15, a swing shaft 35, a deflector pin 11, a rotating drum 9, a guide pin 8, a drainage column 1, and a rear support plate 14; the rear support plate 14 is fixed inside the connector body 24 and is provided with a guide key 34; the drainage column 1 is supported by the front support plate 18 and the rear support plate 14, and the guide key 34 restricts the drainage column 1 to move only along the axial direction and not to rotate; the blades in the second swing cylinder 15 are connected to the second swing shaft 35, and the second swing shaft 35 is connected to the rotating drum 9 through the deflector pin 11. The rotating drum 9 has a segmented sliding groove, which is divided into a front arc, a rear arc, and a middle curve segment; one end of the guide pin 8 is fixed to the drainage column 1, and the other end is embedded in the segmented sliding groove; when compressed gas is introduced into or discharged into the second swing cylinder 15, the blades drive the swing shaft 35 and the deflector pin 11 to rotate, the deflector pin 11 drives the rotating drum 9 to rotate, and the segmented sliding groove forces the guide pin 8 to slide, thereby driving the drainage column 1 to move to the right along the axial direction.

[0081] Furthermore: The segmented chute design of the rotating drum 9 is adapted to the working state of the second swing cylinder 15, while ensuring the moving distance of the discharge column 1. Specific parameters are as follows: the rotation angle from the upper end M of the front arc of the rotating drum 9 to the lower end N of the rear arc is 120°; the swing error of the second swing cylinder 15 is ±2°; to avoid malfunction of the discharge column 1, the central angle ∠MOK corresponding to the front arc is equal to the central angle ∠JON corresponding to the rear arc, which is 7.5 times the swing error, resulting in 30°; the central angle ∠KOJ corresponding to the middle curved section is 120° - ∠MOK - ∠JON = 60°; the radius of each segment of the segmented chute is centered on the center O of the discharge column, and the radius... (Larger than the connector diameter to ensure liquid flow); the length of each section is calculated using the following formula:

[0082] Length of the front arc segment MK: Where θ = 30° Calculated ;

[0083] Length of the rear arc segment JN: Where θ = 30° Calculated ;

[0084] The length of the intermediate section KJ: the moving distance of the drain column 1, KP = 100mm (to ensure residual liquid is discharged), and the arc length of the pin 11 from point K to point J. By using the right triangle theorem, we can obtain That is, KJ=160.5mm.

[0085] Furthermore: the gap between the outer circle of the front part of the drain column 1 and the inner hole of the male connector 25 is as small as possible, and the front end face is designed as a concave surface corresponding to the shape of the valve core inside the ball valve to reduce residual liquid; before filling, the second swing cylinder 15 drives the rotating drum 9 to rotate, and the segmented slide groove drives the drain column 1 to move backward through the guide pin 8, opening the flow channel between the first connector body 24 and the male connector 25; after filling, the second swing cylinder 15 drives in the opposite direction, the drain column 1 moves forward, squeezes the liquid in the channel of the male connector 25 into the tank, and closes the flow channel at the same time.

[0086] Furthermore: the detachment self-sealing mechanism includes a self-sealing disc 17, a push rod 6, a spring 20, and a front support disc 18; the front support disc 18 is fixed inside the first connector body 24 and has a liquid passage hole 32; the self-sealing disc 17 is provided with a third sealing gasket 7, which is connected to one end of the push rod 6; the other end of the push rod 6 can contact the male connector 25, and the spring 20 is sleeved on the outside of the push rod 6 to provide the push rod 6 with a forward restoring force; in the docking state, the male connector 25 pushes the push rod 6 to move backward, causing the self-sealing disc 17 to separate from the front support disc 18, and the liquid passage hole 32 is opened; in case of accidental detachment, the spring 20 pushes the push rod 6 to move forward, the self-sealing disc 17 and the front support disc 18 are in contact, and the sealing gasket 7 blocks the liquid passage hole 32, realizing the self-sealing of the liquid path and preventing a large amount of fluid from overflowing.

[0087] Furthermore, the first connector body 24 is also provided with a first sealing gasket 4, a second sealing gasket 5, a second sealing ring 16, a first sealing ring 19, a second cover 10, and a first cover 23; the first sealing gasket 4 and the second sealing gasket 5 are used to seal the mating joint between the connector body 24 and the male connector 25 to prevent leakage at the mating joint; the second sealing ring 16 and the first sealing ring 19 are used to seal the internal components of the first connector body 24 (such as the rotating drum 9 and the swing shaft 35) to prevent leakage of the internal fluid circuit; the second cover 10 and the first cover 23 are used to close the open ends of the first connector body 24 and the second connector body 12 to protect the internal mechanism from external impurities and ensure the overall sealing performance and service life of the connector.

[0088] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0089] 1. Fully automated process: The three major pneumatic mechanisms can complete the "docking-locking-filling-draining-disconnection" process without manual intervention, truly automating the loading process at the bottom of the tank truck;

[0090] 2. Safe and reliable locking: The "Z"-shaped guide groove is adapted to cylinder error and, together with the pin self-locking function, prevents accidental unlocking; in case of accidental detachment, the self-sealing mechanism quickly shuts off the liquid circuit, reducing safety risks;

[0091] 3. Low residual liquid volume: The concave design of the drain column and the precise drive of the segmented chute can efficiently drain the residual liquid in the male connector, reducing material waste and environmental pollution;

[0092] 4. High adaptability: Pneumatic drive eliminates the risk of electrical sparks, making it suitable for flammable and explosive media scenarios. It is also compatible with existing loading and unloading arm systems, facilitating industry promotion.

[0093] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this disclosure is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that this disclosure can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered in all respects as exemplary and non-limiting, and the scope of this disclosure is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be included within this disclosure. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0094] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A bottom connector for a fluid loading and unloading tank truck, comprising a first connector body (24) that mates with a male connector (25) with a locking groove fixed on the tank truck, wherein a second connector body (12) and a third connector body (13) are provided between the first connector body (24) and the front end of the loading and unloading arm, and the three bodies form a cavity to accommodate a drain column (1); characterized in that: The first connector body (24) is provided with a locking anti-detachment mechanism; The locking anti-disengagement mechanism includes a first swing cylinder (21), a first swing shaft (27), a pin drive disc (22), a pin (2), and a guide pin (3). The first swing cylinder (21) drives and connects to the first swing shaft (27). The pin drive disc (22) is connected to the first swing shaft (27), and the pin drive disc (22) has a degree of freedom in the circumferential direction along the first swing shaft (27). The pin drive disc (22) has a "Z"-shaped guide groove (26), and the guide pin (3) on the pin (2) is connected to it. The "Z"-shaped guide groove (26) is divided into a large arc segment, a middle curve segment, and a small arc segment. The large arc segment and the small arc segment are used to adapt to the working state of the first swing cylinder (21), and the middle curve segment is used to transmit the radial movement of the pin (2). In the locked state, the end of the pin (2) away from the guide pin (3) engages with the locking groove.

2. The bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first connector body (24) is provided with a draining mechanism, which includes a second swing cylinder (15), a second swing shaft (35), a pin (11), a rotating cylinder (9), a drain column (1) fixed with a guide pin (8), a front support plate (18), and a rear support plate (14). The rotating cylinder (9) is located outside the drain column (1) and the two are coaxially arranged. The rotating cylinder (9) has a segmented sliding groove that cooperates with the guide pin (8). The segmented sliding groove is divided into a front arc, a middle spiral section, and a rear arc. The projection of the middle spiral section in the axial direction has a first length. The second swing cylinder (15) drives the second swing shaft (35) to connect. 5) The second swing shaft (35) is provided with a pin (11), and the second connector body (12) has a fan-shaped notch (36). The pin (11) is inside the fan-shaped notch (36). The pin (11) drives the rotating cylinder (9), and the rotating cylinder (9) has a degree of freedom of movement along the circumference of the second swing shaft (35). The front arc and the rear arc are used to adapt to the working state of the second swing cylinder (15). The middle spiral section is used to drive the drain column (1) to move axially. The rear support plate (14) is provided with a guide key (34). The guide key (34) cooperates with the guide groove provided axially on the drain column (1).

3. The bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first connector body (24) is provided with a self-closing mechanism, which includes a self-closing disc (17), a push rod (6) and a spring (20). The front support disc (18) is provided with a limiting hole that cooperates with the drain column (1) and is located between the first connector body (24) and the second connector body (12). The self-closing disc (17) is provided with a third sealing gasket (7). The first connector body (24) is provided with a first through hole. One end of the push rod (6) through the limiting hole is movably connected to the first through hole and the end protrudes into the cavity of the first connector body (24). The other end is fixedly connected to the self-closing disc (17). The spring (20) is sleeved on the outside of the push rod (6) to provide the push rod (6) with a forward restoring force.

4. The bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck according to claim 1, characterized in that: The length of each segment of the "Z"-shaped guide groove (26) is calculated according to the following formula: The length of the small arc segment DB is: DB = (θ1 / 360) × 2πr_AB, where r_AB is the distance between the center point A of the first connector body (24) and the center point B of the guide pin (3) when the male connector (25) and the first connector body (24) are locked. Length of the large arc segment CE: CE = (θ2 / 360) × 2πr_AC, where r_AC is the distance between the center point A of the first connector body (24) and the endpoint C of the large arc segment of the "Z"-shaped guide groove (26) when the male connector (25) and the first connector body (24) are unlocked; The pin (2) moves radially at a constant speed v, and the pin drive disk (22) rotates at a constant speed ω. The trajectory of the guide pin (3) is a variant of the Archimedean spiral. Its rectangular coordinate system parametric equations are: x = (r_AB + vt)sin(ωt), y = (r_AB + vt)cos(ωt), and the polar coordinate relationship is: r_s = r_AB + (v / ω) × θ3, where r_s is the distance of the guide pin (3) from the center point A, and θ3 = ωt.

5. A bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck according to claim 4, characterized in that: The length of each segment of the segmented slide groove of the rotating drum (9) is calculated according to the following formula: Length of the front arc segment MK: MK = (θ4 / 360) × 2πr_MO; The length of the rear arc segment JN is: JN = (θ5 / 360) × 2πr_JO.

6. The bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck according to claim 1, characterized in that: The locking anti-loosening mechanism's pin (2) achieves self-locking through the cooperation of the guide pin (3) and the "Z"-shaped guide groove (26): When the guide pin (3) is in the small arc segment, the pin (2) is inserted into the locking groove of the male connector (25). The small arc segment restricts the radial movement of the guide pin (3). The pin drive disk (22) needs to overcome the resistance to rotate, so as to achieve the self-locking of the pin (2). When the guide pin (3) is in the large arc section, the pin (2) exits the locking groove. The large arc section restricts the radial movement of the guide pin (3) to prevent the pin (2) from moving unexpectedly when the pneumatic system is not in operation.

7. A bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck according to claim 2, characterized in that: The outer circle of the front part of the drain column (1) is matched with the inner hole of the male connector (25). The front end face of the drain column (1) is a concave surface corresponding to the shape of the valve core inside the ball valve in front of the male connector (25). Before filling, the second swing cylinder (15) drives the rotating drum (9) to rotate. The segmented sliding groove of the rotating drum (9) drives the drain column (1) to move backward through the guide pin (8) to open the flow channel between the connector body (24) and the male connector (25). After filling, the second swing cylinder (15) drives in the opposite direction, and the drain column (1) moves forward to squeeze the liquid in the channel of the male connector (25) to be discharged and close the flow channel.

8. A bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck according to claim 3, characterized in that: The front support plate (18) is provided with a liquid passage hole (32). The operation process of the detachment self-sealing mechanism is as follows: When in the docking state, the male connector (25) pushes the top rod (6) to move backward, causing the self-sealing plate (17) to separate from the front support plate (18), and the liquid passage hole (32) is opened; when accidentally detached, the spring (20) pushes the top rod (6) to move forward, the self-sealing plate (17) and the front support plate (18) are in contact, and the third sealing gasket (7) blocks the liquid passage hole (32), realizing the self-sealing of the liquid path.

9. A bottom connector for a fluid loading / unloading tanker truck according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first connector body (24) is also provided with a first sealing gasket (4), a second sealing gasket (5), a first sealing ring (16), a second sealing ring (19), a second cover (10), and a first cover (23); the first sealing gasket (4) is used for sealing the joint between the connector body (24) and the male connector (25); the second sealing gasket (5) is used for sealing when the drain column (1) closes the flow channel; the first sealing ring (16) is used for sealing the fan-shaped notch (36) of the second connector body (12); the second sealing ring (19) is used for sealing between the drain column (1) and the front support plate (18); the second cover (10) and the first cover (23) are respectively used to close the output end of the second swing cylinder (15) and the output end of the first swing cylinder (21).

10. A fluid loading and unloading device, comprising a bottom connector for a fluid loading and unloading tanker truck according to any one of claims 1-9.

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