Can cleaner and gear assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a tank cleaner and a gear assembly. The tank cleaner (1) comprises a static body (3) for coupling with a supply line (6), a rotating body (4) rotatably mounted on the static body (3), a nozzle carrier (8) mounted to the rotating body (4) and having at least one nozzle (82) for dispensing cleaning fluid, a drive device (7) for converting fluid pressure into kinetic energy, a gear assembly (10) having a main input shaft (120) driven by the drive device (7) and a main output shaft (130) for driving the rotating body (4) about a main rotation axis (R1). It is proposed that the main input shaft (120) has a first engagement region (123) engaging a first input gear region (142) and at least a second engagement region (124) engaging a second input gear region (144) arranged at a distance (d1) from the first gear region (142).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a tank cleaner, particularly a track-mounted cleaner, for cleaning tanks. The tank cleaner includes: a static body having a housing having a lower housing portion and an upper housing portion configured for connection to a supply line for receiving cleaning fluid; a rotating body mounted on the static body in a manner rotatable about a main rotation axis; a gear assembly including a gear assembly having a main input shaft and a main output shaft, the main output shaft extending beyond the housing and configured to drive the rotating body about the main rotation axis; and a nozzle carrier mounted to the rotating body, the nozzle carrier having at least one nozzle for dispensing cleaning fluid. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of can cleaning, mechanical cleaning devices are typically used to ensure the thorough removal of residues and contaminants from the inner surfaces of cans. These devices are essential in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals, where maintaining high standards of cleanliness is critical. Known systems generally involve the use of rotary nozzles that dispense cleaning fluid under high pressure to dislodge and remove unwanted materials. These systems typically employ gear assemblies to convert fluid pressure into rotational motion, which in turn drives the nozzles. These systems often have a turbine-type drive connected to the internal gear assembly.

[0003] Despite the effectiveness of existing tank cleaning systems, several challenges remain. A significant issue is the reliability of the gear assemblies used to drive the rotating parts. Conventional gear assemblies can suffer wear and tear due to the high mechanical stresses involved, leading to frequent maintenance and potential downtime. Furthermore, the efficiency of these systems can be affected by suboptimal gear engagement, which can result in uneven rotation and inconsistent cleaning performance. According to known designs, the engagement between the input shaft and the torque transmission gear introduces unequal stresses, which can exacerbate these problems by concentrating stress in small areas.

[0004] Despite substantial progress in the field of tank cleaning, there remains a need for improved gear assemblies offering greater reliability, efficiency, and control. Therefore, the technical problem addressed by this invention is to provide a tank cleaner that at least partially overcomes the shortcomings of known systems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a can cleaner that overcomes one or more of the disadvantages of known systems.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, these objectives are achieved by a can cleaner according to a first aspect of the invention.

[0007] Specifically, this objective is achieved by a tank cleaner, specifically a track-type cleaner, designed for efficient tank cleaning. The tank cleaner includes a static body configured to connect to a supply line for receiving cleaning fluid, ensuring a stable and reliable connection. A rotating body mounted on the static body rotates about a main axis of rotation, facilitating comprehensive cleaning coverage. A nozzle carrier attached to the rotating body includes at least one nozzle for distributing the cleaning fluid, enhancing the distribution and impact of the cleaning process. The tank cleaner also has a drive mechanism configured to convert the fluid pressure of the received cleaning fluid into kinetic energy and a gear assembly coupled to the drive mechanism. The gear assembly includes a main input shaft driven by the drive mechanism propelled by the received cleaning fluid and a main output shaft driving the rotating body about the main axis of rotation. According to the invention of the first aspect, the initially stated objective is achieved by proposing a main input shaft characterized by a first engagement region and a second engagement region, the first engagement region being configured to engage a corresponding first input gear region of the gear assembly, and the second engagement region being configured to engage a corresponding second input gear region arranged at a distance from the first gear region. The first and second input gear regions are configured to jointly transmit the input torque of the main input shaft to drive the main output shaft. This dual-engagement design addresses the challenge of ensuring consistent and efficient torque transmission, potentially reducing wear and tear on individual components and extending the cleaner's lifespan due to better stress distribution. The arrangement of these components provides more balanced and stable operation by distributing the input torque of the main input shaft across the first and second input gear regions, which together transmit torque to advance the output shaft and drive the rotating body. This torque distribution helps minimize vibration and ensures more uniform cleaning action.

[0008] Other embodiments of the invention are given in other aspects, which further develop the concept of the invention in the context of the objectives of the invention with respect to advantageous features and additional advantages.

[0009] According to the implementation, the gear assembly is constructed as a planetary gear system comprising a sun gear, an outer ring gear, and multiple planetary gears. This planetary gear configuration introduces an efficient and compact mechanism for transmitting torque from the main input shaft to the main output shaft, thereby enhancing the rotational drive of the rotating body. The sun gear, centrally located within the planetary gear system, serves as the primary drive that engages with the planetary gears. This arrangement ensures a balanced distribution of forces and smooth rotational motion, crucial for maintaining the stability and efficiency of the tank cleaner during operation. The outer ring gear is arranged coaxially with the sun gear, meaning they share the same central axis but are positioned externally. This coaxial arrangement allows rotational forces to be seamlessly transmitted from the sun gear to the outer ring gear, further optimizing the performance of the gear assembly. The coaxial positioning of the outer ring gear also contributes to the compact design of the gear assembly, which benefits the overall form factor of the tank cleaner. Additionally, multiple planetary gears can rotate about a secondary rotational axis, which is parallel to and radially offset from the main rotational axis. These planetary gears, revolving around the sun gear, play a key role in the planetary gear system by evenly distributing the input torque across the gear assembly. The parallel and radially offset secondary axis configuration of the planetary gears ensures balanced rotational forces and allows the gear assembly to operate with minimal friction and wear. This arrangement not only enhances the durability and lifespan of the gear assembly but also improves the precision and control of the rotational motion of the nozzle carrier. The planetary gear system's ability to deliver high torque in a compact and efficient manner makes it particularly suitable for the demanding operating requirements of rail cleaners, where precise and powerful rotational motion is essential for thorough tank cleaning.

[0010] According to another embodiment, the corresponding first input gear region and the corresponding second input gear region are provided by a plurality of planetary gears. This feature introduces a planetary gear system that distributes the load more evenly across the plurality of planetary gears and their corresponding first input gear regions and corresponding second input gear regions, thereby reducing wear and tear and enhancing the durability and reliability of the gear assembly. Furthermore, it is preferable that the sun gear is located at the main input shaft. This establishes a direct mechanical connection that facilitates the transmission of rotational motion from the main input shaft to the gear assembly. This configuration ensures that the rotational energy derived from the cleaning fluid is efficiently transmitted, thereby optimizing the driving force applied to the rotating body. Additionally, the outer ring gear is preferably located at the output shaft, which serves as a crucial intermediate link in transmitting rotational motion from the gear assembly to the rotating body. This arrangement ensures seamless and efficient transmission of motion, thereby enhancing the overall rotational dynamics of the tank cleaner. The planetary gear system also allows for a more compact and efficient design, as it can achieve higher torque transmission in a smaller space compared to conventional gear systems. These enhancements collectively contribute to a more robust and efficient tank cleaning mechanism capable of achieving consistent and powerful cleaning performance.

[0011] According to another embodiment, multiple planetary gears are mounted on a gear carrier. The gear carrier serves as a support structure that allows the planetary gears to rotate about their own axes while simultaneously rotating about the main rotation axis. This dual motion facilitates the transmission of torque from the main input shaft to the main output shaft, thereby enhancing the efficiency and stability of the gear assembly. The gear carrier ensures that the planetary gears maintain their relative positions and properly engage with their corresponding gears, thus ensuring smooth and consistent operation of the gear assembly. The introduction of a gear carrier with planetary gears offers several advantages. First, it distributes the load more evenly across the gear assembly, reducing wear and tear on individual components and extending the overall lifespan of the cleaner. Second, it enhances the precision of the gear assembly by maintaining the correct alignment of the planetary gears, which is crucial for the accurate transmission of motion and force. Third, using a gear carrier with planetary gears improves the cleaner's ability to handle variations in the pressure and flow rate of the cleaning fluid, as distributed load and precise alignment help absorb and compensate for fluctuations, ensuring consistent performance.

[0012] According to another embodiment, the sun gear is located at the main input shaft, and the outer ring gear is located at the main output shaft. The sun gear positioned at the main input shaft serves as a key component in transmitting rotational force from the drive unit to the gear assembly. This configuration allows for more efficient and controlled conversion of the kinetic energy of the cleaning fluid into mechanical motion, thereby ensuring smooth and consistent rotational movement of the nozzle carrier. The engagement of the sun gear with its corresponding gear within the gear assembly facilitates precise and reliable torque transmission, essential for maintaining the desired rotational speed and direction of the rotating body. Furthermore, the outer ring gear located at the main output shaft further enhances the transmission mechanism by providing a stable and robust engagement for the final stage of torque transmission. The interaction between the outer ring gear and the gear assembly ensures uniform distribution of rotational force and minimizes any potential mechanical losses.

[0013] According to another embodiment, the sun gear, the outer ring gear at the output shaft, and the gear carrier are rotatably mounted, while the gear carrier is fixedly mounted about the main rotation axis. This configuration establishes a specific communication mechanism between the components, wherein the sun gear, outer ring gear, and gear carrier are allowed to rotate freely about the main axis, thereby facilitating the transmission of rotational motion from the main input shaft to the main output shaft via the gear assembly. More preferably, the enclosure portion having the inner ring gear is statically mounted about the main rotation axis and engages with the planetary gears. The static mounting of the enclosure portion ensures that the enclosure portion remains fixed in place, thereby providing a stable frame within which the sun gear, outer ring gear, and gear carrier can rotate, while the planetary gears arranged between the sun gear and the ring gear can further rotate freely about their respective secondary rotation axes.

[0014] According to another embodiment, both the corresponding first input gear region and the corresponding second input gear region are arranged to be spaced apart along the secondary axis of rotation on at least one planetary gear in the planetary gear assembly. This spatial arrangement allows for more dispersed engagement along the secondary axis, potentially reducing localized wear and tear on the gear teeth and enhancing the overall durability and service life of the gear assembly. This new feature brings several advantages to the performance of the can cleaner. By spaced out the engagement regions, the load distribution along the planetary gears is improved, resulting in a smoother transmission of rotational force from the main input shaft to the gear assembly. This leads to more efficient and reliable operation of the rotating body, which is crucial for consistent and thorough cleaning of the can. Additionally, the spaced configuration helps mitigate problems associated with gear slippage or misalignment, ensuring that the nozzle carrier maintains its intended rotational motion and delivers cleaning fluid accurately and effectively. Furthermore, this design enhancement can help reduce maintenance requirements, as a more evenly distributed mechanical stress reduces the frequency of component replacement and repair. Overall, the combination of the spaced-out first and second input gear regions on the planetary gears represents a significant improvement in the mechanical robustness and operational efficiency of the can cleaner, consistent with the overall goal of providing a reliable and effective cleaning solution for cans.

[0015] According to another embodiment, the tank cleaner incorporates an output gear region configured to engage the main output shaft, strategically positioned between a corresponding first input gear region and a corresponding second input gear region. This configuration facilitates a more efficient transmission of mechanical power from the main input shaft to the main output shaft, thereby enhancing the rotational dynamics of the rotating body about the main axis of rotation. Including the output gear region between the two input gear regions introduces a more balanced force distribution within the gear assembly, thereby reducing potential wear and tear on the individual gear components and promoting a longer service life. The specific placement of the outer ring gear region between the first and second input gear regions ensures that torque generated by the drive mechanism powered by the received cleaning fluid is efficiently transmitted through the gear assembly to the rotating body. Preferably, the distance from the first input gear region to the output gear region differs from the distance from the second input gear region to the output gear region. Preferably, the output gear region differs in the number of teeth from the first and / or second input gear regions to increase the gear ratio.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the first input gear region is arranged on the first distal end of the gear pin engaged by the gear carrier. Furthermore, the second input gear region is preferably arranged on the second distal end of the gear pin engaged by the gear carrier. This configuration allows for the distribution of mechanical loads and reduces stress on individual components. The dual engagement region at each distal end of the gear pin ensures that the gear assembly can handle higher torque loads without compromising system integrity. This dual engagement mechanism also allows for smoother and more consistent rotation of the nozzle carrier, which is crucial for achieving uniform cleaning performance within the canister. By ensuring engagement of the gear pin at both distal ends, this design reduces the risk of gear slippage and minimizes wear and tear on individual gear components.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the first engagement region and the second engagement region are defined by a set of main gears arranged at a distance from each other in the direction of the main rotation axis. This configuration facilitates the more efficient and reliable transmission of rotational force from the main input shaft to the gear assembly. By arranging the main gears at a distance from each other along the main rotation axis, the load distribution on the gear assembly is improved, thereby reducing wear and tear on individual gear components. Furthermore, the spaced arrangement of the gears allows for better alignment and meshing, which can result in more precise control over the rotational speed and torque transmitted to the rotating body.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the first engagement region and the second engagement region are defined by a main gear extending from the first engagement region to the second engagement region. The main gear extending from the first engagement region to the second engagement region ensures that motion is continuously and reliably transmitted from the main input shaft to the gear assembly. The extension of the main gear over the two engagement regions allows for a more balanced force distribution, thereby reducing wear and tear on individual components and extending the life of the gear assembly.

[0019] According to another embodiment, the first engagement region of the main input shaft is characterized by a first longitudinal extension in the direction of the main rotation axis. This longitudinal extension ensures sufficient surface contact between the engagement region and the corresponding first input gear region of the gear assembly, thereby facilitating the stable and efficient transmission of rotational force from the main input shaft to the gear assembly. On the other hand, the second engagement region of the main input shaft is designed to have a second longitudinal extension in the direction of the main rotation axis, the second longitudinal extension being at least 70% of the first longitudinal extension. This proportional relationship between the first and second longitudinal extensions ensures that the second engagement region also maintains substantial surface contact with the corresponding second input gear region of the gear assembly. Arranging these engagement regions at a distance from each other allows for a more distributed load along the main input shaft, thereby reducing the risk of localized wear and tear and enhancing the durability of the gear assembly. Furthermore, by making the second longitudinal extension at least 70% of the first longitudinal extension, this design ensures that the second engagement region is large enough to handle most of the rotational force, thereby contributing to the balanced and efficient transmission of power from the main input shaft to the rotating body.

[0020] According to another embodiment, a can cleaner, particularly a rail-mounted cleaner, for cleaning cans incorporates a first input gear region having a third longitudinal extension that mates with a first longitudinal extension of a main input shaft. Additionally, a second input gear region includes a fourth longitudinal extension that mates with a second longitudinal extension of the main input shaft. The engagement of these extensions allows rotational force to be transmitted more stably from the main input shaft to the gear assembly, thereby improving the overall performance of the can cleaner. By providing additional engagement points, the second and corresponding fourth longitudinal extensions distribute the mechanical load more evenly across the gear assembly. This distribution reduces wear and tear on individual components, thereby extending the service life of the can cleaner.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the distance between a corresponding first input gear region and a corresponding second input gear region is defined as a first distance, wherein a second distance between a first engagement region and a second engagement region of the main input shaft is designed to correspond precisely to this first distance. This correspondence between distances ensures perfect alignment between the engagement regions on the main input shaft and the corresponding gear regions of the gear assembly. This alignment is crucial for the efficient operation of the gear assembly because it ensures that the drive unit can effectively drive the main input shaft, which in turn drives the main output shaft and the rotating body around the main rotation axis. The precise correspondence between distances ensures that the gear assembly operates with high efficiency and minimal wear because the engagement regions and gear regions are perfectly aligned. This reduces the likelihood of misalignment and associated mechanical problems, such as increased friction and wear, which can lead to premature component failure.

[0022] The invention relates in a second aspect to a gear assembly for a can cleaner according to a second aspect of the invention. The gear assembly includes a main input shaft and a main output shaft, the main input shaft being configured to be driven by a drive device propelled by received cleaning fluid about a main axis of rotation, and the main output shaft being configured to drive a rotating body about the main axis of rotation. In other words, the gear assembly is configured to be coupled to a drive device that can convert the fluid pressure of the cleaning fluid into kinetic energy, which in turn forces the main input shaft to rotate. The main input shaft is coupled to the drive device to ensure seamless transfer of kinetic energy from the cleaning fluid to the mechanical components of the gear assembly. The main output shaft is configured to drive the rotating body about the main axis of rotation, thereby enabling a nozzle carrier coupled to the rotating body to effectively distribute the cleaning fluid within the can.

[0023] The initially mentioned objective is achieved in the second aspect by proposing an input shaft having a first engagement region specifically designed to engage a corresponding first input gear region of the gear assembly, and the input shaft including a second engagement region engaging a corresponding second input gear region of the gear assembly. This second engagement region is strategically arranged at a distance from the first gear. The first and second input gear regions are configured to jointly transmit the input torque of the main input shaft to drive the main output shaft. This arrangement allows for a more balanced force distribution and reduces wear and tear on individual components. Including multiple engagement regions on the input shaft not only enhances the durability of the gear assembly but also improves the overall performance of the gear assembly by ensuring that rotational forces are evenly distributed across the gears, as described with respect to the first aspect of the invention. Therefore, the benefits and preferred embodiments described with respect to the first aspect of the invention are also the benefits and preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention.

[0024] According to another aspect, this disclosure relates to a can cleaner of the type initially mentioned and described in the preamble of the first aspect of the invention. It is proposed that the can cleaner also have a main bearing configured to support the output shaft within a housing of the static body, particularly in the lower housing portion. The main bearing is designed as a tapered bearing, particularly a conical bearing, extending from a narrower lower end facing the rotating body to a larger upper end facing the input shaft. Thus, the shape of the main bearing adapts to the shape of the output shaft, which has a correspondingly shaped upper distal end to which the tapered bearing provides a stop shoulder for axial support. The bearing is preferably supported by an upper support edge, which corresponds to and is configured to axially fix the tapered bearing. Preferably, the tapered bearing also supports a lower fixed gear mounted to the main output shaft, which is configured to transmit rotational motion to the nozzle carrier output shaft. The main bearing must not only support the limiting force implied by the liquid pressure entering the can cleaner as normal operating pressure, but also withstand additional water hammer forces. The main bearing must also allow the output shaft to rotate and maintain a stable position. By utilizing a tapered bearing design for the main bearing, the bearing surface can be increased without affecting the cross-sectional area, while maintaining alignment to remain centered. Specifically, the tapered bearing can be combined with one, more, or all of the preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0025] According to another aspect, this disclosure relates to a can cleaner of the type initially mentioned and described in the preamble of the first aspect of the invention. It is proposed that the can cleaner also have a ball bearing configured to support a main input shaft. The ball bearing is arranged between the distal end of the main input shaft and a mating stop surface of the main output shaft. The use of a single spherical ball, made of any material, as an end of a thrust bearing in the can cleaner. The spherical ball may be encapsulated in a capsule-like portion or independent of any surrounding support. The advantage of the ball bearing is that it provides an efficient, small, and low-friction bearing within the gear assembly. In particular, the ball bearing may be combined with one, more, or all of the preferred embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0026] This disclosure will be illustrated in more detail by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1a An embodiment of a tank cleaner having a static body, a rotating body, a nozzle carrier, and a nozzle is shown.

[0028] Figure 1b A cross-sectional view of the tank cleaner is shown, illustrating the internal components including the supply lines, gear assembly, and nozzles.

[0029] Figure 2 An exploded view of the gear assembly for the tank is shown in the first perspective view;

[0030] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A detailed view of the main input shaft of the gear assembly shown;

[0031] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 A detailed view of the planetary gears of the gear assembly shown. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Figure 1a The illustration shows a tank cleaner 1, specifically a track-mounted cleaner 2, designed for cleaning tanks. The tank cleaner includes a static body 3 configured to connect to a supply line 6 for receiving cleaning fluid. The static body 3 supports a rotating body 4, which is mounted on the static body 3 in a manner rotatable about a main rotation axis R1. Attached to the rotating body 4 is a nozzle carrier 8, which includes at least one nozzle 82 for dispensing cleaning fluid.

[0033] Figure 1b A cross-sectional view of the tank cleaner 1 is provided, showing detailed views of its internal components and their interconnections. A supply line 6 connects to the static body 3, which houses the gear assembly 10.

[0034] The tank cleaner 1 has a drive unit 7 configured to convert the fluid pressure of the cleaning fluid received by the supply line 6 into kinetic energy. The drive unit 7 includes a stator 71 and an impeller 72 housed within an enclosure portion 170.

[0035] The static body 3 includes a housing 30 having an upper housing portion 31 and a lower housing portion 32. The upper housing portion 31 is configured for connection to a supply line 6 for receiving cleaning fluid. The upper housing portion 31 facilitates connection to the supply line 6, thereby ensuring that cleaning fluid is guided into the housing 30 for subsequent use in the cleaning process. The enclosure portion 170 has a sealing portion 172 to abut against the upper housing portion 31 for sealing.

[0036] The gear assembly 10 includes a main input shaft 120 and a main output shaft 130. The main input shaft 120 is driven by a drive device 7 propelled by a clean fluid received through a supply line 6. The gear assembly 10 is partially housed in a housing 30 such that the output shaft 130 extends from inside the housing 30 into the rotating body 4 to drive the rotating body 4 about a main rotation axis R1. The output shaft 130 is supported in the housing 30 by means of a tapered bearing 132.

[0037] The fixed gear 160 is mounted to the lower end of the output shaft 130, which extends into the rotating body 4. The fixed gear 160 is supported on the output shaft 130 by means of a ring bearing 134.

[0038] The main input shaft 120 is supported in the housing 30 by a ball bearing 92, which is preferably made of ruby. The ball bearing 92 rests against a mating stop surface 94 of the main output shaft 130. Furthermore, the ball bearing 92 may be encapsulated by a capsule-shaped portion 95. Figure 2 The diagram shows an exploded view of the gear assembly 10 of the can cleaner, which is specifically constructed as a planetary gear system 11. Similar or identical components are present in... Figure 1a , Figure 1b and Figure 2 The same reference numerals are used in the accompanying drawings, and reference is made to the above description of the general configuration of the tank cleaner 1.

[0039] The gear assembly 10 described above has a central main input shaft 120. The main input shaft 120 is characterized by a first engagement region 123 and a second engagement region 124, which are configured to engage corresponding first input gear regions 142 and 144 of the gear assembly 10, respectively. These engagement regions 142, 144 are arranged such that they are spaced apart by a distance d1 (see [reference]). Figure 4 ).

[0040] The first engagement region 123 and the second engagement region 124 on the main input shaft 120 are defined by a set of main gears 122 arranged at a certain distance from each other in the direction of the main rotation axis R1.

[0041] The first input gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144 are provided by planetary gears 140 spaced apart in the direction of the secondary rotation axis R2.

[0042] Gear assembly 10 is configured as a planetary gear system 11, which includes a sun gear 121, an outer ring gear 131, and a plurality of planetary gears 140. The sun gear 121 is located on the main input shaft 120, while the outer ring gear 131 is located on the main output shaft 130. The planetary gears 140 are mounted on a gear carrier 150 and each rotates about its respective secondary rotation axis R2, which is parallel to and radially offset from the main rotation axis R1. The carrier 150 is rotatably mounted about the main rotation axis R1 and guides the movement of the planetary gears 140 about the main rotation axis R1. The sun gear 121 on the main input shaft 120 drives the planetary gears 140, which in turn drive the outer ring gear 131 on the main output shaft 130. This configuration allows the rotating body 4 to rotate about the main rotation axis R1 driven by clean fluid received through the supply line 6. A tapered bearing 132 is configured to support the main output shaft 130. The shape of the tapered bearing corresponds to the outer contour of the main output shaft 130.

[0043] The planetary gear 140 is characterized by a first input gear region 142 and a second input gear region 144, which are spaced apart along the secondary rotation axis R2. These gear regions 142 and 144 engage with corresponding engagement regions 123 and 124 on the main input shaft 120. Additionally, the planetary gear 140 includes an output gear region 145 configured to engage the main output shaft 130, particularly the outer ring gear 131.

[0044] The planetary gear 140 is defined by gear pins 141 engaged with each free gear carrier 150. Each gear pin 141 has a first distal end 141a on which a first input gear region 142 is located, and a second distal end 141b on which a second input gear region 144 is located. In the illustrated embodiment, the first gear region 142 is provided by a first input gear, and the second input gear region 144 is provided by a second input gear, both of which are mounted to or integrally formed with the corresponding gear pin 141. An output gear region 145 is positioned between the first input gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144. Similar to the first input gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144, the output gear region 145 may be provided by an output gear mounted to or integrally formed with the corresponding gear pin 141. The first gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144 are configured to jointly transmit the input torque of the main input shaft 120. Therefore, the input torque of the main input shaft 120 is distributed to the first gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144, which together transmit the input torque, thereby causing the rotational motion of the output gear having the output gear region 145.

[0045] The gear carrier 150 extends into the enclosure portion 170 and is supported in the enclosure portion 170 by means of the gear carrier bushing 151.

[0046] The enclosure portion 170 is characterized by an inner ring gear region 171, which is mounted statically relative to the main rotation axis and configured to engage with at least a first gear region 142. Thus, the inner ring gear region 171 guides the planetary gear 140 received in the gear carrier 150.

[0047] In short, Figure 2 A detailed view of the gear assembly of the tank cleaner is provided, highlighting the arrangement and interaction of the main input shaft 120, planetary gear 140, sun gear 121, outer ring gear 131, and gear carrier 150. This configuration facilitates the efficient transmission of rotational motion from the main input shaft 120 to the rotating body 4, thereby enabling efficient tank cleaning.

[0048] Figure 3 The illustration shows a detailed view of the main input shaft 120 and its associated components within the gear assembly 10 of the can cleaner 1. The main input shaft 120 is configured as a sun gear 121. The sun gear 121 is integrated with the planetary gear system 11, thereby engaging with the planetary gears 140 to facilitate the rotational movement required for cleaning operations.

[0049] The main input shaft 120 is characterized by two distinct engagement regions: a first engagement region 123 and a second engagement region 124. These engagement regions are designed to correspond to gear regions 142, 144 within the gear assembly 10 (see [link]). Figure 4 The two regions interact. The first junction region 123 is located at a distance d2 from the second junction region 124.

[0050] Engagement areas 123 and 124 are defined by a group of main gears 122. These gears 122 are spaced apart along the main axis of rotation to ensure proper engagement with the corresponding gear areas on the planetary gears 140.

[0051] Figure 3 The longitudinal extensions of the engagement regions are also highlighted. The first engagement region 123 has a first longitudinal extension L1, and the second engagement region 124 has a second longitudinal extension L2, the second longitudinal extension L2 being at least 70% of the first longitudinal extension L1. Correspondingly, the first input gear region 142 has a third longitudinal extension L3 that mates with the first longitudinal extension L1, and the second input gear region 144 has a fourth longitudinal extension L4 that mates with the second longitudinal extension L2. The distance d1 between the first input gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144 (see...) Figure 4 This corresponds to the distance d2 between the first joining region 123 and the second joining region 124.

[0052] Figure 4 The illustration shows a detailed view of a portion of a planetary gear 140, which is a component of the gear assembly 10 in the tank cleaner 1. The planetary gear 140 is characterized by a first input gear region 142, a second input gear region 144, and an output gear region 145.

[0053] The first input gear region 142 is located on one end of the planetary gear 140 and is characterized by a longitudinal extension L3. The second input gear region 144 is located on the opposite end of the planetary gear 140 and has a longitudinal extension L4. The distance between the first input gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144 is denoted as d1. This distance d1 is relative to the main input shaft 120 (see...). Figure 3 The joining of the corresponding first joining region 123 and the second joining region 124 is crucial.

[0054] The output gear region 145 is located between the first input gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144. This configuration allows the planetary gear 140 to interact with both the input and output components of the gear assembly 10, thereby facilitating the transmission of rotational motion from the main input shaft 120 to the main output shaft 130.

[0055] The planetary gear 140 is designed to rotate about the pair axis R2 (see Figure 3 The planetary gears 140 rotate about a central sun gear 121 and engage with an outer ring gear 131. The planetary gears 140 are mounted on a gear carrier 150, which holds them in place and allows them to rotate freely about their respective secondary axes R2.

[0056] Both the first input gear region 142 and the second input gear region 144 are configured to engage with corresponding engagement regions on the main input shaft 120 (see [link]). Figure 2 The output gear region 145 is configured to engage with the main output shaft 130, specifically with the outer ring gear 131 (see [link]). Figure 2 This engagement allows the rotational motion of the planetary gear 140 to be transmitted to the main output shaft 130, thereby driving the rotating body 4 of the tank cleaner 1 about the main rotation axis R1.

[0057] Figure Labels 1 can of cleaner 2 Track-mounted cleaner 3. Static Ontology 4. Rotating body 6. Supply pipelines 7. Drive unit 8. Nozzle carrier 10 Gear Assembly 11 Planetary Gears 30. Housing 31 Upper shell section 32 Lower shell section 71 Stator 72 Impeller 82 Nozzles 120 main input axis 121 Sun Gear 122 Main Gear 123 First joint area 124 Second joint area 130 Main Output Shaft 131 External Ring Gear 132 Tapered Bearing 134 Annular Bearing 140 Planetary Gears 141 First Gear Pin 141a The distal end of the first gear pin 142 First Input Gear Region 143 Second gear pin 143a The distal end of the second gear pin 144 Second Input Gear Area 145 Output gear area 150 Gear Bearing 151 Gear bearing bushing 160 Fixed Gear 170 Enclosed Section 171 Internal Ring Gear Section 172 Sealing Part L1 First longitudinal extension L2 Second Longitudinal Extension L3 Third Longitudinal Extension L4 Fourth Longitudinal Extension d1 (first) distance d2 Second distance R1 Main axis of rotation R2 secondary rotation axis

Claims

1. A can cleaner (1) for cleaning cans, the can cleaner (1) being particularly a track-mounted cleaner (2), the can cleaner (1) comprising: A static body (3), the static body (3) being configured for connection with a supply line (6) for receiving clean fluid, A rotating body (4) is mounted on the static body (3) in a manner that allows it to rotate about the main rotation axis (R1). A nozzle carrier (8) is mounted to the rotating body (4) and has at least one nozzle (82) for dispensing cleaning fluid. The drive device (7) is configured to convert the fluid pressure of the received clean fluid into kinetic energy. Gear assembly (10) having a main input shaft (120) and a main output shaft (130), the main input shaft (120) being coupled to a drive device (7) driven by a receiving clean fluid for driving the main input shaft (120), the main output shaft (130) being configured to drive the rotating body (4) about the main rotation axis (R1). The main input shaft (120) is characterized in that it has a first engagement region (123) configured to engage a corresponding first input gear region (142) of the gear assembly (10) and at least a second engagement region (124) configured to engage a corresponding second input gear region (144) of the gear assembly (10), the second input gear region (144) being arranged at a distance (d1) from the first gear region (142), wherein the first input gear region (142) and the second input gear region (144) are configured to jointly transmit the input torque of the main input shaft (120) to drive the main output shaft (130).

2. The tank cleaner (1) according to claim 1. in, The gear assembly (10) is constructed as a planetary gear (11), which has a sun gear (121), an outer ring gear (131) arranged coaxially with the sun gear (121), and a plurality of planetary gears (140) capable of rotating about a secondary rotation axis (R2), which is parallel to the main rotation axis (R1) and radially offset from the main rotation axis (R1).

3. The can cleaner (1) according to claim 2. in, The sun gear (121) is located at the main input shaft (120), the outer ring gear (131) is located at the output shaft, and the corresponding first input gear area (142) and the corresponding second input gear area (144) are provided by a plurality of planetary gears (140).

4. The can cleaner (1) according to claim 3. in, Multiple planetary gears (140) are mounted on the gear carrier (150).

5. The can cleaner (1) according to claim 4. in, The sun gear (121) is located at the main input shaft (120), and the outer ring gear (131) is located at the main output shaft (130).

6. The can cleaner (1) according to claim 5. in, The sun gear (121), the outer ring gear (131), and the gear carrier (150) are mounted rotatably around the main rotation axis (R1).

7. The tank cleaner (1) according to claim 6, further comprising: The enclosure portion (170) has an inner ring gear (171) that is statically mounted around the main rotation axis (R1) and engages with the planetary gear (140).

8. The can cleaner (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 7. in, The corresponding first input gear region (142) and the corresponding second input gear region (144) are both configured to be spaced apart along the direction of the secondary rotation axis (R2) on at least one of the planetary gears (140).

9. The tank cleaner (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, An output gear region (145) configured to engage the main output shaft (130), particularly the outer ring gear (131), is provided between the corresponding first input gear region (142) and the corresponding second input gear region (144).

10. The can cleaner (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 9. in, The first input gear region (142) is arranged on the first distal end (141a) of the gear pin engaged by the gear carrier (150), and / or the second input gear region (144) is arranged on the second distal end (143a) of the gear pin engaged by the gear carrier (150).

11. The tank cleaner (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first engagement region (123) and the second engagement region (124) are defined by a set of main gears (122) arranged at a distance from each other in the direction of the main rotation axis, or The first engagement region (123) and the second engagement region (124) are defined by a main gear (122) extending from the first engagement region (123) to the second engagement region (124).

12. The tank cleaner (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The first engagement region (123) has a first longitudinal extension (L1) in the direction of the main rotation axis, and the second engagement region (124) has a second longitudinal extension (L2) in the direction of the main rotation axis, wherein the second longitudinal extension (L2) is at least 70% of the first longitudinal extension (L1).

13. The can cleaner (1) according to claim 12. in, The first input gear region (142) has a third longitudinal extension (L3) that mates with the first longitudinal extension (L1), and / or the second input gear region (144) has a fourth longitudinal extension (L4) that mates with the second longitudinal extension (L2).

14. The tank cleaner (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The distance (d1) between the corresponding first input gear region (142) and the corresponding second input gear region (144) is a first distance (d1), and the second distance (d2) between the first engagement region (123) and the second engagement region (124) corresponds to the first distance (d1).

15. A gear assembly (10) for a can cleaner (1), particularly for a can cleaner (1) according to any one of the claims, the gear assembly (10) having a main input shaft (120) and a main output shaft (130), the main input shaft (120) being configured to be coupled to a drive device (7) driven by a receiving cleaning fluid for driving the main input shaft (120), the main output shaft (130) being configured to drive a rotating body (4) about a main rotation axis (R1). Its features are, The input shaft has a first engagement region (123) configured to engage a corresponding first input gear region (142) of the gear assembly (10) and a second engagement region (124) configured to engage a corresponding second input gear region (144) of the gear assembly (10), the second input gear region (144) being arranged at a distance (d1) from the first gear region (142), wherein the first input gear region (142) and the second input gear region (144) are configured to jointly transmit the input torque of the main input shaft (120) to drive the main output shaft (130).

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