cylinder alignment

Abstract

An arrangement (100) and method (1000) for positioning a press cylinder (110) of a pressing apparatus in a mounting position (130) for mounting a first end closure and / or a second end closure (140, 160) for closing a first end and / or a second end (150, 170) of the press cylinder is provided. The arrangement comprises a transport unit (200) comprising a bogie arrangement (250) arranged to transport the press cylinder from a first position (300) to a second position (310) (and from the second position to the first position), the first position comprising the mounting position, and a first spring arrangement (400) arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transport unit. The first spring arrangement is arranged to position the press cylinder in a balanced position, wherein the balanced position of the press cylinder in the first position corresponds to the mounting position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to the field of high pressure technology. In particular, this invention relates to an arrangement and method for positioning a pressure cylinder in a pressing device, the pressing device being arranged to process articles and / or products by cold isostatic pressing, warm isostatic pressing, or hot isostatic pressing. Background Technology

[0002] Cold isostatic pressing (CIP), warm isostatic pressing (WIP), and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) are increasingly widely used techniques. HIP can be used, for example, to reduce or even eliminate porosity in castings (e.g., turbine blades) in order to significantly increase their service life and strength (e.g., their fatigue strength).

[0003] A pressure vessel in a conventional high-pressure press consists of a pressure vessel cylinder and a sealed cover. Between pressing operations, one or both of these covers can be opened, depending on the press's configuration and design. Additionally, conventional high-pressure presses typically include a frame for holding the covers in place, where the frame may include yokes and posts wound with several layers of wire. When one or more covers are closed and sealed, the pressure vessel is filled with a fluid pressure medium, i.e., a liquid or gas. The frame secures the covers(s) to the pressure vessel, where the pressure vessel cylinder and(s) are subjected to high pressure. During pressurization, the frame absorbs axial forces from the covers. Furthermore, during pressurization, the frame can expand in the axial direction of the pressure vessel. Due to the expansion of the frame, the covers participate in this axial movement. Similarly, during depressurization, the frame contracts in the axial direction, and the covers thus participate in this axial movement.

[0004] Articles to be subjected to pressure treatment via WIP or HIP can be placed in the load compartment or chamber of an insulated pressure vessel. The treatment cycle may include loading, processing, and unloading the articles. Several articles can be processed simultaneously. The treatment cycle can be divided into several parts or stages, such as a pressing stage, a heating stage, and a cooling stage. After the articles are loaded into the pressure vessel, the pressure vessel can be sealed, and then a pressure medium (e.g., an inert gas such as argon, or a liquid such as water or oil) is introduced into the pressure vessel and its load compartment. The pressure and temperature of the pressure medium are then increased; this can be called the pressurization stage, where the articles are subjected to the increased pressure and temperature for a selected time period. The temperature increase of the pressure medium can be provided by means of heating elements or a furnace arranged in the furnace chamber of the pressure vessel, which in turn may cause the temperature of the articles to increase. The heating stage can be performed simultaneously with the pressurization stage, before the pressurization stage, or after the pressurization stage. Exposing the articles to increased pressure in the pressure vessel for a selected time period can be called the pressing stage or holding stage of the treatment cycle.

[0005] Pressure, temperature, and processing time can depend, for example, on the desired or required material properties of the processed articles, the specific application area, and the required quality of the processed articles. The pressure in HIP can be, for example, in the range of 500 bar to 3000 bar (e.g., 500 bar to 2100 bar). The temperature in HIP can be, for example, in the range of 300°C to 3000°C (e.g., 500°C to 2000°C). After the pressing stage and before opening the pressure vessel to remove articles(s), the pressure in the pressure vessel is typically reduced to a sufficiently low level by withdrawing the pressure medium. This can be referred to as the pressure reduction stage or pressure release stage. The processing cycle may further include a cooling stage. However, depending on the type of isostatic press used (e.g., whether the isostatic press is configured to perform CIP, WIP, or HIP), cooling and heating stages may not be necessary.

[0006] High-pressure processing (HPP) employs a CIP system, using liquids to help the food industry address global sustainability challenges such as food waste, product recalls, and related foodborne illnesses. The non-thermal HPP method is considered effective for inactivating foodborne pathogens and extending refrigerated shelf life without affecting taste or nutrition, and other types of food processing methods can also achieve similar results.

[0007] It may be of interest to be able to deliver the pressure cylinder of the pressing device to a position where an end seal for closing the end of the pressure cylinder can be installed and removed, both before and after the pressing operation performed by means of CIP, HIP, or WIP using the pressing device as described above. More specifically, it is of particular interest to deliver and / or precisely position the pressure cylinder at / to the position where the end seal is installed and / or removed. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an arrangement and method for delivering and / or positioning the pressure cylinder of a pressing device to a desired location, such as a centrally located position within a frame, where the end closure of the pressing device can be operated.

[0009] This and other objectives are achieved by providing the arrangements and methods described in the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined by the dependent claims.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, an arrangement is provided for positioning a pressure cylinder of a pressing device in an installation position for mounting at least one of a first end closure and a second end closure, the first end closure for closing a first end of the pressure cylinder, and the second end closure for closing a second end of the pressure cylinder opposite to the first end. The arrangement includes a conveying unit comprising a bogie arrangement configured to convey the pressure cylinder from a second position to a first position and from the first position to a second position, the first position including an installation position, the second position being separate from the first position. The conveying unit further includes a first spring arrangement operable parallel to the x-direction and configured to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the conveying unit. The first spring arrangement is configured to position the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder in the first position corresponds to the installation position.

[0011] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method is provided for positioning a pressure cylinder of a pressing device in an installation position via an arrangement for mounting at least one of a first end closure and a second end closure, the first end closure being for closing a first end of the pressure cylinder, and the second end closure being for closing a second end of the pressure cylinder opposite to the first end. The arrangement includes a conveying unit comprising a bogie arrangement and a first spring arrangement operable parallel to the x-direction and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the conveying unit. The method includes the steps of conveying the pressure cylinder via the conveying unit from a second position to a first position, and from the first position to a second position, the first position including an installation position, the second position being separate from the first position. The method further includes the step of positioning the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position via the first spring arrangement, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder in the first position corresponds to the installation position.

[0012] Therefore, the present invention is based on the concept of providing arrangements and methods for positioning a pressure cylinder of a pressing device in an installation position, such as centered within a frame, where the installation (and / or removal) of one or more pressure cylinder end closures can be performed. The pressure cylinder can be efficiently, safely, and accurately transported to (from) the installation position via a transport unit comprising a bogie arrangement and a first spring arrangement.

[0013] An advantage of this invention is that the first spring arrangement of the conveying unit, which is configured to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement, reduces wear on the bogie arrangement and / or the conveying unit (e.g., the wheels of the bogie arrangement and / or (one or more) tracks of the conveying unit). Therefore, this invention achieves efficient, safe, and precise conveying from the pressure cylinder to the mounting position, while simultaneously increasing the service life of the arrangement due to reduced wear on (one or more) wheels and / or (one or more) tracks.

[0014] A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides simple and convenient maintenance, adjustment and / or repair operations for the arrangement and / or pressing equipment.

[0015] A further advantage of the invention is that it improves accessibility to relatively large arrangements, which in turn generate relatively large loads, stresses and / or strains.

[0016] A further advantage of the invention is that, since the invention enables the centering of the pressure cylinder before it is conveyed along the fluid collection tray(s), it provides a relatively large margin for the arrangement of one or more fluid collection trays.

[0017] A further advantage of the invention is that the first spring arrangement, which can operate parallel to (e.g., horizontally) the x-direction, ensures precise positioning of the pressure cylinder in the x-direction. Therefore, the first spring arrangement helps to (accurately) position the pressure cylinder in the mounting position for end-closure installation (removal).

[0018] It should be noted that during the pressurization operation of the pressing equipment, the friction between the seal of the end closure and the pressure cylinder wall is not (perfectly) equal, which may cause the pressure cylinder to move (displace) in the positive or negative x-direction during the pressurization operation of the pressing equipment. The pressure cylinder is not fixed in the x-direction (i.e., not tightened, not locked, or not secured), and thus the pressure cylinder can move or displace in the positive or negative x-direction. Therefore, an advantage of the present invention is that it prevents (very high) forces from being applied to (one or more) tracks of the conveying unit, where such forces could potentially be detrimental to the construction and / or operation of the pressing equipment. The present invention further prevents slippage of (one or more) wheels on (one or more) tracks of the conveying unit, thereby reducing (excessive) wear on (one or more) tracks. Therefore, the present invention thereby provides improved operation and / or service life of the pressing equipment.

[0019] This invention is particularly applicable to pressing apparatuses having a first end closure and a second end closure, both of which are (completely) removable from a pressure cylinder, i.e., physically separable from the pressure cylinder. Therefore, one or both of the first and second end closures can be removed from the pressure cylinder, for example, during insertion and / or removal of the article into and / or from the pressure cylinder. During operation of the pressing apparatus, the frame of the pressing apparatus holds the (removable) first and second end closures and absorbs axial forces from the end closures. It should be noted that the pressing apparatus may also include one or more pressing plates that can be inserted after the first and / or second end closures have been mounted (arranged) on the pressure cylinder.

[0020] An arrangement is provided for positioning a pressure cylinder of a pressing device in an installation position for mounting at least one of a first end closure and a second end closure, the first end closure for closing a first end of the pressure cylinder, and the second end closure for closing a second end of the pressure cylinder opposite the first end. "Pressing device" herein refers to substantially any high-pressure equipment, such as CIP, WIP, or HIP. Thus, the "pressure cylinder" of the pressing device constitutes a vessel or container in which one or more articles can be disposed (e.g., in its load compartment or chamber) for high-pressure processing. "First end closure" and "second end closure" herein refer to closures, caps, etc., at the respective ends of the pressure cylinder. The arrangement includes a conveying unit comprising a bogie arrangement configured to convey the pressure cylinder from a second position to a first position and from the first position to a second position, the first position including an installation position, the second position being separate from the first position. Therefore, via the bogie arrangement of the conveying unit, the pressure cylinder can be transported back and forth between a second position and a first position, i.e., from the (external) second position to the first position where the installation operation of the pressing equipment can be performed, and back to the (external) second position. The conveying unit further includes a first spring arrangement that is operable parallel to the x-direction and is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the conveying unit. "First spring arrangement" herein means any arrangement, unit, etc., including one or more springs of substantially any type, such as disc springs, gas springs, etc., or even hydraulic or pneumatic pistons. The phrase "first spring arrangement operable parallel to the x-direction" herein means that the first spring arrangement can apply force parallel to the x-direction (or in the x-direction). The phrase "bogie arrangement arranged to forcibly bias the conveying unit" means that the first spring arrangement is configured to apply force parallel to the (positive or negative) x-direction (or in the (positive or negative) x-direction) when the pressure cylinder of the conveying unit's bogie arrangement is displaced (once the pressure cylinder is displaced). It should be understood that the first spring arrangement, which is configured to bias the bogie arrangement of the transport unit, can be preloaded or prestressed. The first spring arrangement is configured to position the pressure cylinder in a balanced position, wherein the balanced position of the pressure cylinder in the first position corresponds to the installation position. Therefore, via the first spring arrangement, the pressure cylinder can be positioned in a balanced position, which in the first position corresponds to the installation position.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the invention, the transport unit may further include a second spring arrangement operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the second spring arrangement is connected to the bogie arrangement. The phrase "second spring arrangement operable parallel to the z-direction" here means that the second spring arrangement can apply force parallel to (or in the z-direction). An advantage of this embodiment is that the second spring arrangement operable parallel to (e.g., vertically) the z-direction mitigates or even prevents slippage of the bogie arrangement on the track units of the transport unit. Undesirable slippage (i.e., sliding or glide) can lead to wear on (one or more) arrangement components, which in turn can negatively impact the operation and / or service life of the arrangement. For example, wear on one or more wheels of the bogie arrangement and / or wear on (one or more) tracks of the transport unit due to slippage, sliding, and / or glide of the bogie arrangement on the track units of the transport unit can degrade the operation and / or service life of the arrangement. When slippage occurs in the same or similar places or locations, wheel wear can cause the wheels to lose their roundness, thus inferring increased wear on one or more tracks. It should be noted that slippage of the bogie arrangement on the track units of the transport unit may occur when one or more track units are not (fully) level. More specifically, in the case of an arrangement comprising a first pair (front) first transport unit group and a second pair (rear) second transport unit group (where the first pair and second pair are arranged on opposite sides of the pressure cylinder), there is a risk that one of the bogie arrangements in the second pair (rear) second transport unit group may slip on the track unit of the corresponding transport unit. This is because the first pair (front) first transport unit group bears a larger portion of the weight of the pressure cylinder compared to the second pair (rear) second transport unit group, and the wheels of the first pair (front) first transport unit group will (always) contact the track units(s). However, the features of the present invention can mitigate the slippage of the bogie arrangement on the track units of the transport unit. At the equilibrium position corresponding to the installation position of the pressure cylinder in the first position, the weight of the pressure cylinder is distributed on the bogie unit of the bogie arrangement, and the second spring arrangement is saturated. When the pressure cylinder is opened, even if the weight of the pressure cylinder is unevenly distributed on the bogie arrangement of the second pair (rear, rear) second transport unit group, the second spring arrangement can force the wheels to be biased against the track unit. Therefore, since the second spring arrangement hinders or even prevents the bogie arrangement from sliding on the track unit of the transport unit, the second spring arrangement can provide and / or contribute to the reliable operation of the transport unit, such as the wheels (one or more) rolling on the track unit (one or more) of the transport unit (even if the track unit (one or more) is not parallel to the xy plane).This embodiment thus achieves an improved operation of the arrangement according to the invention.

[0022] Furthermore, in the case where the arrangement includes a first pair (front-mounted) first conveying unit group and a second pair (rear-mounted) second conveying unit group (where the first pair of first conveying unit groups and the second pair of second conveying unit groups are arranged on both sides of the pressure cylinder), the second pair (rear-mounted, rear-positioned) second conveying unit groups may each include a relatively weak second spring arrangement (i.e., in the case of one or more springs, the springs may have a relatively small spring constant k), such that the second spring arrangement can be saturated. Through at least one second adjusting element connected to the bogie arrangement and operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction, the saturated second spring arrangement and the (correctly adjusted) (one or more) second adjusting elements achieve precise positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction. With this configuration, the second spring arrangement helps the arrangement to (accurately) position the pressure cylinder in the mounting position, for example, centered in the frame, for end-closure installation (removal).

[0023] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the transport unit may include multiple track units, the bogie arrangement may include multiple bogie units, wherein each bogie unit is movably arranged on a corresponding track unit, and the first spring arrangement may include multiple first spring units, wherein each first spring unit is connected to a corresponding bogie unit. Therefore, the arrangement is divided into (sub)units, which include track units, bogie units movably arranged on track units, and first spring units connected to the bogie units.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the invention, the second spring arrangement may include a plurality of second spring units, wherein each second spring unit is connected to a corresponding bogie unit. Therefore, the arrangement of this embodiment includes a combination of a first spring arrangement and a second spring arrangement (which has associated first spring units and second spring units).

[0025] According to an embodiment of the invention, multiple track units can extend parallel to the y-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction. Thus, the multiple track units extend parallel to the y-direction, which is perpendicular to the x-direction, and the first spring arrangement is operable in this x-direction. The bogie arrangement can thus be configured to respectively transport the pressure cylinder from a second position to a first position in a direction parallel to the y-direction (parallel to the positive y-direction (or in the positive y-direction)) and from the first position to the second position in a direction parallel to the y-direction (parallel to the negative y-direction (or in the negative y-direction)), the first position including a mounting position, the second position being separate from the first position. Therefore, the multiple bogie units of the bogie arrangement are movably arranged parallel to the y-direction (or in the y-direction) on multiple track units extending parallel to the y-direction (or in the y-direction). An advantage of this embodiment is that this arrangement provides a unique and upright operation by transporting the pressure cylinder in the y-direction via the track units of the transport unit, while the first spring arrangement operates in the x-direction, thereby achieving safe, efficient, and precise pressure cylinder transport.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the invention, the x and y directions can extend in a horizontal plane, and the arrangement is configured to deliver the pressure cylinder between a first position and a second position in the horizontal plane. An advantage of this embodiment is that the arrangement provides convenient delivery of the pressure cylinder in the horizontal plane.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement may further include at least one first adjusting element coupled to the first spring arrangement, wherein the at least one first adjusting element is configured to adjust the first spring arrangement. Therefore, the arrangement may include one or more first adjusting elements coupled to or connected to (one or more) the first spring arrangement for adjustment. The term "adjusting element" herein means any element, device, unit, or arrangement substantially comprising one or more components configured to adjust the first spring arrangement. For example, (one or more) the first adjusting element may include one or more threads. According to a specific example, (one or more) the first adjusting element may be or include a threaded support. An advantage of this embodiment is that (one or more) the first adjusting element provides the possibility of easy and convenient adjustment of the first spring arrangement, which therefore results in more precise and accurate positioning of the pressure cylinder and operation of the arrangement for delivering the pressure cylinder. A further advantage of this embodiment is that (one or more) the first adjusting element provides the ability to adjust and / or customize the prestress of the first spring arrangement. More specifically, by providing the ability to adjust one or more first adjusting elements, and based on one or more characteristics of the first spring arrangement (e.g., spring force constants, etc.), this embodiment can conveniently provide a desired prestress and / or bias for the first spring arrangement, which can correspond to the desired prestress and / or bias derived from one or more calculations, one or more simulations, and / or one or more experiments. Therefore, this embodiment improves the operation of the arrangement.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement may further include at least one second adjusting element coupled to the bogie arrangement and operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the at least one second adjusting element is configured to adjust the positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction. An advantage of this embodiment is that the second adjusting element(s) provides the possibility of easily and conveniently adjusting the positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction, which therefore results in more precise and accurate positioning of the pressure cylinder and operation of the arrangement for conveying the pressure cylinder. A further advantage of this embodiment is that the second adjusting element contributes to reliable operation of the conveying unit; for example, the second adjusting element facilitates the operation of the wheel(s) of the arrangement to roll on the track(s) of the conveying unit(s) (even if the track(s) are not parallel to the xy-plane). It should be noted that, in order to compensate for possible misalignment of the track(s) or one, any rotational locking of the bogie unit parallel to the z-direction should be avoided. The second adjusting element(s) operable parallel to the z-direction can be configured to avoid such rotational locking around the z-direction. One or more second adjusting elements may be, for example, cylindrical and may be arranged to connect to corresponding cylindrical holes formed in the bogie arrangement.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement may further include four conveying unit groups, wherein at least one of these conveying unit groups includes a track unit from a plurality of track units, a bogie unit from a plurality of bogie units, and a first spring unit from a plurality of first spring units, wherein these conveying unit groups are arranged separately and spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the arrangement includes four conveying unit groups, wherein at least one (e.g., two) of these conveying unit groups includes a track unit, a bogie unit, and a first spring unit. An advantage of this embodiment is that the first conveying unit group(s) provides further stability and accuracy to the operation of the arrangement, thereby further improving the efficiency, safety, and accuracy of the conveying pressure cylinder.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the invention, at least a second conveying unit group among these conveying unit groups may include one track unit from a plurality of track units, one bogie unit from a plurality of bogie units, one first spring unit from a plurality of first spring units, and one second spring unit from a plurality of second spring units, wherein these conveying unit groups are arranged separately and spaced apart from each other. Thus, the arrangement includes four conveying unit groups, wherein at least one (e.g., two) of these conveying unit groups includes a track unit, a bogie unit, and first and second spring units. An advantage of this embodiment is that one or more second conveying unit groups among the four conveying unit groups provide further stability and accuracy to the operation of the arrangement, thereby further improving the efficiency, safety, and accuracy of the conveying pressure cylinder.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement may include a first pair of first conveying unit groups and a second pair of second conveying unit groups, wherein the first pair of first conveying unit groups and the second pair of second conveying unit groups are respectively arranged on both sides of the pressure cylinder in the direction of movement from the second position to the first position and from the first position to the second position. Therefore, the first pair of first conveying unit groups can constitute a pair (i.e., two) of front conveying unit groups, and the second pair of second conveying unit groups can constitute a pair (i.e., two) of rear conveying unit groups. An advantage of this embodiment is that the corresponding conveying unit pairs can have different characteristics suitable for the operation of this arrangement. Therefore, further improved efficiency, safety, and / or accuracy of the conveying pressure cylinder can be achieved.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the invention, the arrangement may include a first pair of first conveying unit groups and a rear first conveying unit group, wherein the first pair of first conveying unit groups and the rear first conveying unit group are respectively arranged on both sides of the pressure cylinder in the direction of movement from the second position to the first position and from the first position to the second position relative to the pressure cylinder, wherein the track unit of the rear first conveying unit group extends parallel to the y-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction, and wherein the first spring unit of the rear first conveying unit group includes two springs arranged on opposite sides of the track unit in a plane parallel to the x-direction and the y-direction. Therefore, the arrangement may include a total of three conveying unit groups, comprising a pair (i.e., two) (front) first conveying unit groups and a single (i.e., one) (rear) first conveying unit group. The two springs (both of which are operable in the x-direction) of the spring unit of the rear first conveying unit group are arranged on opposite sides of the track unit in a plane parallel to the x-direction and the y-direction. The advantage of this implementation is that the arrangement can constitute an alternative to an implementation of four transport unit groups (i.e., including a first pair of transport unit groups and a second pair of transport unit groups), whereby the rear first transport unit group means a single (i.e., one) track unit and a single (i.e., one) bogie unit.

[0033] According to embodiments of the present invention, a system is provided comprising a pressing device and an arrangement according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, the pressing device being used to process at least one article of work, wherein the pressing device includes a pressure cylinder for holding the at least one article of work, wherein the pressure cylinder includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, a first end closure for closing the first end of the pressure cylinder, and a second end closure for closing the second end of the pressure cylinder. It should be understood that the advantages provided by the system including the pressing device and the arrangement described in one or more of the foregoing embodiments are the same as or similar to those presented for that arrangement.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the invention, the pressing device is arranged horizontally, thereby extending the pressure cylinder horizontally. Therefore, this embodiment implies that the pressure cylinder is horizontally oriented, i.e., its main axis is horizontally aligned. An advantage of this embodiment is that the horizontal orientation of the pressure cylinder facilitates and makes the system's delivery of the pressure cylinder easier and more convenient. A further advantage of this embodiment is that the horizontal orientation of the pressure cylinder is beneficial when there are height limitations in the space available for this arrangement and / or the system.

[0035] Further objects and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to exemplary embodiments. It should be noted that the invention relates to all possible combinations of the features recited in the claims. Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent when examined in conjunction with the appended claims and the description herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that different features of the invention can be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 3a This is a schematic diagram of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 3b This is a schematic diagram of forces associated with an arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0040] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 6a This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rear first conveying unit group arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6b and Figure 6c This is a schematic diagram of the rear first conveying unit group arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 7a and Figure 7b This is a schematic diagram of a conveyor unit assembly arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a conveyor unit assembly arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 9a This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a conveyor unit assembly arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 9b and Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a conveyor unit assembly arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 11This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a conveyor unit assembly arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a conveyor unit assembly arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, and

[0049] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] All figures are schematic and not necessarily drawn to scale, and generally only show the parts necessary to illustrate embodiments of the invention, wherein other parts may be omitted or simply mentioned. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The invention will now be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0052] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Arrangement 100 is provided for positioning a pressure cylinder 110 of a pressing device. It should be noted that the pressing device can be virtually any (high-pressure) pressing device or arrangement, such as CIP, WIP, HIP, etc. The pressing device can be configured to process at least one article by means of isostatic pressing. Processing by means of isostatic pressing helps or allows all articles processed by the pressing device to have the same material properties. For example, the pressing device can be configured to process at least one article by means of at least one of CIP, WIP, HPP, or HIP. Typically, in a pressure vessel, processing by means of CIP can involve a temperature in the pressure vessel equal to or below (e.g., about) 50°C, for example, in the range between (e.g., about) room temperature (e.g., 20°C) and (e.g., about) 50°C. Furthermore, the CIP process can involve pressures in the pressure vessel ranging from (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 1600 MPa (e.g., between (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 600 MPa), depending on the material of the article being processed and the temperature in the pressure vessel. Typically, in a pressure vessel, the WIP process can involve temperatures ranging from (e.g., about) 50°C to (e.g., about) 400°C. Furthermore, the WIP process can involve pressures in the pressure vessel ranging from (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 1600 MPa (e.g., between (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 600 MPa), depending on the material of the article being processed and the temperature in the pressure vessel. Typically, in pressure vessels, processing by means of HIP can involve temperatures in the pressure vessel equal to or higher than (e.g., about) 400°C, for example, in the range between (e.g., about) 400°C and (e.g., about) 2500°C. Further, processing by means of HIP can involve pressures in the pressure vessel between (e.g., about) 50 MPa and (e.g., about) 300 MPa (e.g., between (e.g., about) 50 MPa and (e.g., about) 210 MPa), depending on the material of the article being processed and the temperature in the pressure vessel. Typically, in pressure vessels, processing by means of HPP can involve temperatures in the pressure vessel equal to or higher than (e.g., about) 0°C, for example, in the range between (e.g., about) 0°C and (e.g., about) 100°C, typically in the range between (e.g., about) 4°C and (e.g., about) 40°C.Furthermore, treatment using HPP can involve pressures in the pressure vessel ranging from (e.g., about) 100 MPa to (e.g., about) 800 MPa (typically between (e.g., about) 400 MPa to (e.g., about) 600 MPa), depending on the material of the article being treated and the temperature in the pressure vessel. However, depending on the application, pressures up to 6000 bar (600 MPa) or even higher may be desired or even required in the pressure vessel.

[0053] Figure 1 Arrangement 100 is configured to position pressure cylinder 110 in mounting position 130 (schematically indicated by a rectangle) for mounting a first end closure 140 and / or a second end closure 160, the first end closure for closing a first end 150 of pressure cylinder 110, and the second end closure for closing a second end 170 of pressure cylinder 110 opposite to the first end 150. Arrangement 100 includes a conveying unit 200, schematically indicated by a rectangle. Conveying unit 200 includes a bogie arrangement 250 configured to convey pressure cylinder 110 from a second position 310 (schematically indicated by a rectangle) to a first position 300 (schematically indicated by a rectangle), the first position including mounting position 130, wherein the second position 310 is separate from the first position 300. Similarly, bogie arrangement 250 is configured to convey (return) pressure cylinder 110 from the first position 300 to the second position 310. The conveying unit 200 further includes a first spring arrangement 400, which is schematically indicated by a rectangle. The first spring arrangement 400 is operable parallel to the x-direction and is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement 250 of the conveying unit 200. The first spring arrangement 400 is arranged to position the pressure cylinder 110 in a balanced position, wherein the balanced position of the pressure cylinder 110 in the first position 300 corresponds to the mounting position 130.

[0054] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 A pressure cylinder 110 of a pressing device 120 is shown, in which the pressure cylinder 110 is (already) positioned within the pressing device 120 by arrangement 100. It should be noted that the pressing device 120 can be virtually any (high-pressure) pressing device or arrangement, such as CIP, WIP, HIP, etc. A pressing frame 115 surrounds the pressure cylinder 110. The pressing frame 115 includes a yoke and columns and can be wound with several layers of wire (not shown), thereby prestressing the pressing frame 115. Alternatively, the pressing frame 115 can be a (non-wound) laminated steel frame, and the pressure cylinder 110 can have a monolithic construction.

[0055] The pressing device 120 includes a first end for closing the pressure cylinder 110 ( Figure 2 The first end closure 140 (on the left side) and the second end (opposite to the first end) for closing the pressure cylinder 110 Figure 2 The second end closure 160 (on the right side). It should be noted that the friction between the seals of the first end closure 140 and the second end closure 160 and the wall of the pressure cylinder 110 is not (completely) equal. This can cause possible movement (displacement) of the pressure cylinder 110 in the positive or negative x-direction during pressurization operation of the pressing device 120, as indicated by arrow 125. Therefore, the pressure cylinder 110 is not fixed in the x-direction (i.e., not tightened, not locked, or not secured), and the pressure cylinder 110 can move or displace in the positive or negative x-direction, as indicated by arrow 125. According to Figure 2 In the example of arrangement 100 shown, the pressing device 120 includes a frame structure 118. A portion 118a of the frame structure on the left side of the pressing device 120 is fixed (i.e., fastened, locked, or secured), as indicated by the schematically shown fastener 118b, and a portion 118c of the frame structure on the right side of the pressing device 120 is fastened to the right yoke of the pressing device 120. The pressing frame 115 is expandable in the x-direction (i.e., freely expandable) during pressurization operation, and the frame structure portion 118c displaces together with the pressing frame 115. Because the pressing frame 115 can expand (to the right), the (right) second end closure 160 can pull the pressure cylinder 110 by friction between the seal of the second end closure 160 and the wall of the pressure cylinder 110. The described expansion can be achieved via the schematically shown wheel 118d. Therefore, movement or displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 may occur during the expansion of the pressing frame 115, during the pressurization and contraction of the pressing frame 115, and during the decompression of the pressing device 120. Similarly, it should be noted that, with Figure 2 The opposite construction shown is entirely feasible. Therefore, the frame structure portion on the right side of the pressing device 120 can be fixed (i.e., fastened, locked, or secured), and the frame structure portion on the left side of the pressing device 120 can be fastened to the left yoke of the pressing device 120, the operation being the reverse / opposite of the above operation.

[0056] Figure 3aThis is a schematic diagram of a portion of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The first spring arrangement of the conveying units of arrangement 100 includes a plurality (here, four) of first spring units 1 to 4, wherein each of the first spring units 1 to 4 is connected to a corresponding bogie unit for conveying the pressure cylinder 110. The bogie unit is movable in the y-direction for conveying the pressure cylinder 110. The first spring arrangement is operable parallel to the x-direction, thereby allowing the plurality of first spring units 1 to 4 to operate (orient, align) parallel to the x-direction (in the x-direction). First spring units 1 and 3 belong to a first pair of first (front) conveying unit groups, and first spring units 2 and 4 belong to a second pair of second (rear, rear) conveying unit groups, wherein the first pair of first conveying unit groups and the second pair of second conveying unit groups are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder 110. It should be noted that the pressure cylinder 110 is only schematically indicated by a dashed rectangle to emphasize its position. Figure 3a Observation and understanding of a portion of the arrangement 100 shown. Figure 3a The coordinate system is placed at the mass center of pressure cylinder 110.

[0057] Figure 3b This is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between the force on the (wire-wound) pressure cylinder 110 and the displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 according to an exemplary embodiment of the arrangement of the present invention. It should be noted that... Figure 3b Charts and Figure 2 And associated with the movement or displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 described in the related text, and Figure 3b The chart further with Figure 3a And associated with the (four) first spring units 1 to 4 of the text related to it.

[0058] Figure 3b The left side of the graph reveals the relationship between the force on pressure cylinder 110 and the displacement of pressure cylinder 110 in the negative x direction (e.g.) Figure 2 and Figure 3a(As indicated). The force F1s of the (primary) first spring unit 1 (on top) and the force F2s of the (secondary) first spring unit 2 (on top) are the reaction forces from the corresponding first spring unit 1 and the second spring unit 2 on the upper support of the corresponding bogie unit. The (upper) support is fixed to the pressure cylinder 110, and the reaction forces from the first spring unit 1 and the second spring unit 2, as well as the frictional force (described below), act on the pressure cylinder 110. Here, due to the displacement of the pressure cylinder in the negative x direction, the force F1s of the (primary) first spring unit 1 (on top) and the force F2s of the (secondary) first spring unit 2 (on top) are relatively high. The force F1s of the (primary) first spring unit 1 (on top) is significantly higher than the force F2s of the (secondary) first spring unit 2 (on top), wherein the (primary) first spring unit 1 constitutes the first spring unit 1 of the (front) first conveying unit group, and wherein the (secondary) first spring unit 2 constitutes the first spring unit 2 of the (rear, rear) second-level conveying unit group. The reason F1s > F2s is that the spring constant of the (first-stage) first spring unit 1 is greater than the spring constant of the (second-stage) first spring unit 2. It should be noted that the spring constants are set and / or customized in this way to counteract the friction between the support and shaft of the corresponding bogie unit in order to avoid introducing unwanted torque on the pressure cylinder 110 (around the z-axis). The frictional forces F1f of the (first-stage) first spring unit 1, F3f of the (third-stage) first spring unit 3, F2f of the (second-stage) first spring unit 2, and F4f of the (fourth-stage) first spring unit 4 are negative, thus counteracting the positive forces F1s and F2s. The absolute values ​​of the frictional forces F1f of the first spring unit 1 (level 1) and F3f of the first spring unit 3 (level 3) are significantly higher than the absolute values ​​of the frictional forces F2f of the first spring unit 2 (level 2) and F4f of the first spring unit 4 (level 4). The first spring units 1 and 3 belong to the (front) first conveyor unit group, and the (level 2 and 4) first spring units 2 and 4 constitute the first spring units 2 and 4 of the (rear, rear) second conveyor unit group. The reason why F1f > F2f and F3f > F4f is that a larger portion of the weight of the pressure cylinder 110 is placed on the bogie unit of the first pair of (front) first conveyor units compared to the weight of the pressure cylinder 110 placed on the second pair of (rear, rear) second conveyor units. Figure 3b The left side of the graph, i.e., in the negative x direction, shows that the total force FSum is positive, which forces the pressure cylinder 100 toward the equilibrium position in the positive x direction.

[0059] Similarly, Figure 3b The right side of the simplified diagram reveals the relationship between the force on the pressure cylinder 110 and the displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in the positive x direction (e.g. Figure 2 and Figure 3a(As indicated). The forces F3s of the (third-level) first spring unit 3 (upper) and F4s of the (fourth-level) first spring unit 4 (upper) are reaction forces from the upper supports of the corresponding bogie units. The (upper) supports are fixed to the pressure cylinder 110, and the reaction forces from the third spring unit 3 and the fourth spring unit 4, as well as friction (described below), act on the pressure cylinder 110. Here, due to the displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in the positive x direction, the absolute values ​​of the forces F3s of the (third-level) first spring unit 3 (upper) and F4s of the (fourth-level) first spring unit 4 (upper) are relatively high (i.e., the negative forces of F3s and F4s are relatively high). The force F3s (in absolute value) of the (level 3) first spring unit 3 (upper) is significantly higher than the force F4s of the (level 4) first spring unit 4 (upper), wherein the (level 3) first spring unit 3 constitutes the first spring unit 3 of the (front) first conveyor unit group, and wherein the (level 4) first spring unit 4 constitutes the first spring unit 4 of the (rear, rear) second-level conveyor unit group. The reason why the absolute value of F3s > the absolute value of F4s is that the spring constant of the (level 3) first spring unit 3 is greater than the spring constant of the (level 4) first spring unit 4. Similar to the previously described first spring unit 1 and second-level spring unit 2, the spring constant is set and / or customized to counteract the friction between the support and the shaft of the corresponding bogie unit. The frictional forces F1f of the first spring unit 1 (level 1), F3f of the first spring unit 3 (level 3), F2f of the first spring unit 2 (level 2), and F4f of the first spring unit 4 (level 4) are positive, thus canceling out the negative forces F3s and F4s. The frictional forces F1f and F3f of the first spring unit 1 (level 1) and the first spring unit 3 (level 3) are significantly higher than the absolute values ​​of the frictional forces F2f and F4f of the first spring unit 2 (level 2) and the first spring unit 4 (level 4). The first spring units 1 and 3 belong to the (front) first conveying unit group, and the first spring units 2 and 4 (level 2 and level 4) constitute the first spring units 2 and 4 of the (rear, rear) second-level conveying unit group. Figure 3b On the right side of the graph, the total force FSum is negative, which forces the pressure cylinder 110 toward the equilibrium position in the negative x direction.

[0060] The setting of the spring constants of spring units 1 to 4, and the corresponding difference in force (F1s > F2s; F3s > F4s) generated by the greater prestress and greater spring constant associated with the bogie units of the second pair (rear, rear-positioned) second transport unit group, compared with the bogie units of the first pair (front-positioned) first transport unit group, enable the pressure cylinder 110 to be transported parallel and reliably toward the equilibrium position.

[0061] It should be noted that, such as Figure 3a and Figure 3bThe described arrangement 100 provides a restoring force (corresponding to FSum) on the pressure cylinder 110 in the event of displacement, and the restoring force varies with the magnitude of the displacement of the pressure cylinder 110. When spring units 1 to 4 include springs, the greater the displacement, the greater the restoring force. When spring units 1 to 4 include hydraulic and / or pneumatic components, the restoring force can be constant or substantially constant when the pressure cylinder 110 is displaced. When the pressure cylinder 110 is displaced in the negative x-direction, the forces F3s of the (third-stage) first spring unit 3 and F4s of the (fourth-stage) first spring unit 4 are zero (i.e., F3s = F4s = 0). Conversely, the forces F1s of the (first-stage) first spring unit 1 and F2s of the (second-stage) first spring unit 2 contribute to the restoring force. Similarly, when the pressure cylinder 110 is displaced in the positive x-direction, the forces F1s of the (first-stage) first spring unit 1 and F2s of the (second-stage) first spring unit 4 are zero (i.e., F1s = F2s = 0). Conversely, the force F3s of the (third-stage) first spring unit 3 and the force F4s of the (fourth-stage) first spring unit 4 contribute to the restoring force. Since the first spring units 1 to 4 are prestressed, the restoring force will (always) be greater than the frictional force.

[0062] Orientation Figure 3b The central part of the chart or Figure 3b At the center of the graph, the absolute values ​​of forces F1s, F2s, F3s, and F4s decrease as pressure cylinder 110 approaches its equilibrium position. Therefore, the total force FSum (the absolute value of the force) decreases; this sum is positive when pressure cylinder 110 is shifted in the negative x-direction, and similarly negative when pressure cylinder 110 is shifted in the positive x-direction. Figure 3b At the (exact) center of the graph, i.e., at x = 0 (i.e., pressure cylinder 110 has no displacement), pressure cylinder 110 is in its equilibrium position, and FSum = 0. In practice, the equilibrium position may correspond to x = 0 ± 0.5 mm due to the clearance between the adjacent portions of (one or more) first spring units and (one or more) supports.

[0063] It should be understood that Figure 3a and Figure 3b This (only) discloses an example of a portion of arrangement 100 and the associated forces on pressure cylinder 110, and many other configurations and / or pressure relationships of arrangement 100 may be possible. More specifically, the relationship between forces F1f, F2f, F3f, F4f and F1s, F2s, F3s, F4s may vary depending on the placement of the first pair of conveyor units and the second pair of conveyor units in arrangement 100.

[0064] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Arrangement 100 is configured to position a pressure cylinder 110 for a pressing device 120. It should be noted that the pressing device 120 can be virtually any (high-pressure) pressing device or arrangement, such as CIP, WIP, HIP, etc. Figure 4 In this arrangement, pressure cylinder 110 is positioned (i.e., already positioned by arrangement 100) in an installation position for mounting a first end closure 140 and / or a second end closure 160, the first end closure for closing a first end of pressure cylinder 110, and the second end closure for closing a second end of pressure cylinder 110 opposite to the first end. Arrangement 100 includes a conveying unit 200, which further includes a bogie arrangement 250 arranged to convey pressure cylinder 110 to / from the (first) position including the installation position. Conveying unit 200 includes a first spring arrangement 400 operable parallel to the x-direction and arranged to forcibly bias bogie arrangement 250 of conveying unit 200. First spring arrangement 400 is arranged to position pressure cylinder 110 in a balanced position, wherein the balanced position of pressure cylinder 110 in the first position corresponds to the installation position.

[0065] It is worth noting that in the arrangement of 100 Figure 4 In the view, conveyor unit 200 discloses two conveyor unit groups 650a and 650b, as indicated by the dashed rectangles. It should be understood that arrangement 100 may include a total of four conveyor unit groups, but... Figure 4 In the view, two of these conveyor unit groups are not visible. More specifically, arrangement 100 may include (front-mounted) a first pair of conveyor unit groups 650a, 650b (e.g., Figure 4(Shown) and (rear, rearward) a second pair of conveyor unit groups (not visible). Each conveyor unit group 650a, 650b includes a corresponding bogie unit 250a, 250b, which is arranged to convey the pressure cylinder 110 to / from its mounting position. Each bogie unit 250a, 250b is movably arranged parallel to (or in the y-direction) on a corresponding track unit 500a, 500b of the corresponding conveyor unit group 650a, 650b. Each conveyor unit group 650a, 650b includes a corresponding first spring unit 400a, 400b of a first spring arrangement 400, which is connected to the corresponding bogie unit 250a, 250b. The first spring arrangement 400 is operable parallel to the x-direction, thereby allowing the first spring units 400a, 400b to operate parallel to (in the x-direction) (orientation, alignment). Arrangement 100 further includes at least one first adjusting element 610a, 610b, which is coupled to the first spring arrangement 400. Here, each first adjusting element 610a, 610b is configured to adjust a corresponding preloaded first spring unit 400a, 400b of the first spring arrangement 400.

[0066] Arrangement 100 further includes at least one second adjusting element 620a, 620b, which is coupled to bogie arrangement 250 and operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction. One or more second adjusting elements 620a, 620b (configured to adjust the positioning of pressure cylinder 110 parallel to the z-direction) extend parallel to the z-direction. One or more second adjusting elements 620a, 620b may include substantially any components and / or constitute substantially any construction for positioning adjustment purposes. For example, one or more second adjusting elements 620a, 620b may be threaded (i.e., including one or more threads) for their adjusting operation.

[0067] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a portion of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Due to relative to... Figure 1 and / or Figure 4 exist Figure 5 The parts and features of arrangement 100 are omitted, therefore, please refer to Figure 1 and / or Figure 4 To deepen the understanding of layout 100. Figure 5In the arrangement 100, the transport unit includes a plurality of (four in this case) track units 500a-d. Each track unit 500a-d, including at least one track, extends parallel to the y-direction. The bogie arrangement further includes a plurality of bogie units 250a-d, wherein each bogie unit 250a-d is movably arranged on a corresponding track unit 500a-d parallel to (or in the y-direction). The first spring arrangement of the transport unit of arrangement 100 includes a plurality of first spring units 400a-d, wherein each first spring unit 400a-d is connected to a corresponding bogie unit 250a-d. The first spring arrangement is operable parallel to the x-direction, thereby allowing the plurality of first spring units 400a-d to operate (orient, align) parallel to (in the x-direction). The first spring arrangement is arranged via the first spring units 400a-d to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transport unit of arrangement 100. Arrangement 100 further includes a plurality of (four in this case) second adjusting elements 620a-d, which are coupled to corresponding bogie units 250a-d of the transport unit group 650a-d, wherein the second adjusting elements 620a-d, due to their extension in the z-direction, are only Figure 5 The diagram illustrates this. The second adjusting elements 620a-d are configured to adjust the positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction. It should be understood that, as Figure 5 The illustrated arrangement 100 (partial) includes four transport unit groups 650a-d. Each transport unit group 650a-d includes one track unit from a plurality of track units 500a-d, one bogie unit from a plurality of bogie units 250a-d, and one first spring unit from a plurality of first spring units 400a-d, wherein the transport units 650a-d are arranged separately and spaced apart from each other. Figure 5An example of arrangement 100 (partial) includes a first pair of 700 (described) conveyor unit groups 650a and 650b, and a second pair of 710 (described) conveyor unit groups 650c and 650d. The first pair of 700 conveyor unit groups and the second pair of 710 conveyor unit groups are arranged on both sides of the pressure cylinder (not shown) in the direction of movement relative to the pressure cylinder from the second position to the first position and from the first position to the second position, respectively. The first pair of 700 conveyor unit groups 650a and 650b constitutes the front pair of 700 conveyor unit groups, while the second pair of 710 conveyor unit groups 650c and 650d constitutes the rear (rear) pair of 710 conveyor unit groups. Here, the track units 500a and 500b of the first pair of 700 conveying unit groups 650a and 650b are separated by a first distance D1 perpendicular to the extending direction (i.e., the y-direction) of track units 500a and 500b, and the track units 500c and 500d of the second pair of 710 conveying unit groups 650c and 650d are separated by a second distance D2 perpendicular to the extending direction (i.e., the y-direction) of track units 500c and 500d, where D2 > D1. Figure 5 In this arrangement, the x and y directions can extend in a horizontal plane, thereby arranging 100 to deliver a pressure cylinder between a first position and a second position in the horizontal plane.

[0068] exist Figure 5 In this arrangement, arrangement 100 may further include a second spring arrangement (not shown) operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the second spring arrangement is connected to the bogie arrangement. More specifically, the second spring arrangement may include a second spring unit connected to the bogie unit 250c of the rear (rear) pair 710 transport unit group and a second spring unit connected to the bogie unit 250d. The second spring arrangement is thus arranged to reduce or even prevent slippage of the bogie arrangement on the track units 500c, 500d of the rear (rear) pair 710 transport unit group.

[0069] Figure 6a This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rear first conveying unit group 650x according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that this arrangement may further include... Figure 6a The first pair of first conveying unit groups is not shown in the diagram. More specifically, the first pair of first conveying unit groups and the rear first conveying unit group 650x of this arrangement can be arranged on both sides of the pressure cylinder in the direction of movement relative to the pressure cylinder from the second position to the first position and from the first position to the second position, respectively. Therefore, in the illustrative arrangement of three (first) conveying unit groups, Figure 6aOnly the rear (first) conveyor unit group 650x is shown. The track unit 500x of the rear first conveyor unit group 650x extends parallel to the y-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction. The first spring unit 400x of the rear first conveyor unit group 650x includes two springs 405a and 405b, which are operable in the x-direction, and are arranged on opposite sides of the track unit 500x in the x / y plane.

[0070] Figure 6b and Figure 6c This is a schematic diagram of the rear first conveying unit group 650x arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Reference numerals are shown for the components of the rear first conveying unit group 650x. Figure 6a .

[0071] Figure 7a This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the conveying unit group 650b arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7a The conveyor unit group 650b corresponds to Figure 5 The conveyor unit group 650b is shown in a view in a plane parallel to the x / z plane. The conveyor unit group 650b includes one bogie unit 250b among a plurality of bogie units, wherein the bogie unit 250b is movably arranged parallel to (or in the y-direction) on a track unit (not shown) of the conveyor unit group 650b. The conveyor unit group 650b further includes a first spring unit 400b among a plurality of first spring units, wherein the first spring unit 400b is operable parallel to the x-direction. This arrangement includes a first adjusting element 610b coupled to the first spring unit 400b of the first spring arrangement, wherein the first adjusting element 610b is configured to adjust the first spring unit 400b of the first spring arrangement. The conveyor unit group 650b further includes a plurality of wheels 630b arranged to engage the track unit and roll on the track unit. The plurality of wheels 630b may preferably be four, but the number of wheels may alternatively be eight or sixteen. Multiple wheels 630 can include, for example, 4, 8, or 16 wheels, i.e., multiples of 2 (2 x (There are 2 wheels, where x = 2, 3, 4, ...). A second adjusting element 620b, connected to bogie unit 250b, extends parallel to the z-direction and is configured to adjust the positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction.

[0072] Figure 7b This is a schematic diagram of a conveying unit group 650b arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7b The conveyor unit group 650b corresponds to Figure 5 and Figure 7aThe conveyor unit assembly 650b includes a bogie unit 250b movably arranged parallel to (or in the y-direction) on a track unit (not shown), a first spring unit 400b, a plurality of wheels 630b arranged to engage the track unit and roll on the track unit, and a second adjusting element 620b coupled to the bogie unit 250b. The conveyor unit assembly 650b further includes a plurality of wheels 635 operable in the z-direction (e.g., vertically operable). Figure 7b (Only one wheel is visible). Multiple wheels 635 may, for example, include two wheels. Multiple wheels 635 may preferably include, for example, two, four, or eight wheels, i.e., a multiple of two (2...). x (There are 1, 2, 3, ... wheels).

[0073] Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the conveying unit group 650a arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 The conveyor unit group 650a corresponds to Figure 5 The conveyor unit group 650a is shown in a view in a plane parallel to the x / y plane. The conveyor unit group 650a includes one of a plurality of track units 500a-d aligned in the y-direction. The conveyor unit group 650a further includes one of a plurality of bogie units 250a, wherein the bogie unit 250a is movably arranged on the track unit 500a in the y-direction. The conveyor unit group 650a further includes a first spring unit 400a of a plurality of first spring units, wherein the first spring unit 400a is operable parallel to the x-direction. Therefore, the first spring unit 400a extends parallel to the x-direction. The conveyor unit group 650a further includes a plurality (four in this case) of wheels 630a arranged to engage the track unit 500a and roll on it.

[0074] Figure 9a This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the conveying unit group 650d arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9a The conveyor unit group 650d corresponds to Figure 5The conveyor unit group 650d includes a bogie unit 250d and a first spring unit 400d, which is movably arranged parallel to (or in the y-direction) on a track unit (not shown) of the conveyor unit group. This arrangement includes a first adjusting element 610d coupled to the first spring unit 400d of the first spring arrangement, wherein the first adjusting element 610d is configured to adjust the first spring unit 400d of the first spring arrangement. The conveyor unit group 650d further includes a plurality of wheels 630d arranged to engage the track unit and roll on the track unit. The first spring unit 400d of the conveyor unit group 650d, operable parallel to the x-direction, is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie unit 250d of the conveyor unit group 650d. More specifically, when the pressure cylinder (not shown) shifts in the negative x-direction, the first spring unit 400d applies a force to the upper support of the bogie unit 250d, thereby allowing the pressure cylinder to move in the (positive) x-direction until it reaches an equilibrium position of x = 0. In contrast, when the pressure cylinder shifts in the positive x-direction, the support can move (freely) without being affected (biased) by the first spring unit 400d. The transport unit group 650d further includes a second spring arrangement that is operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction. The second spring arrangement includes a pair of second spring units 600a, 600b connected to the bogie unit 250d, wherein the second spring arrangement is configured to reduce or even prevent slippage of the bogie unit 250d on the track unit of the transport unit group 650d. The transport unit group 650d further includes a second adjusting element 620d coupled to the bogie unit 250d of the transport unit group 650d. The second adjusting element 620d is configured to adjust the positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction. The second spring arrangement can be relatively weak, i.e., the pair of second spring units 600a, 600b can have a relatively small spring constant k, such that the spring arrangement can saturate at the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder when the second adjusting element 620d is correctly adjusted, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder in the first position corresponds to... Figure 1 The installation location.

[0075] Figure 9b This is a schematic diagram of a conveyor unit group 650d arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Reference numerals are shown for the components of the conveyor unit group 650d. Figure 9a And / or refer to this figure for a better understanding of the conveyor unit group 650d.

[0076] Figure 9b This is a schematic diagram of a conveyor unit group 650d arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9b The conveyor unit group 650d corresponds to Figure 5 and Figure 9a The conveyor unit assembly 650d includes a bogie unit 250d movably arranged on a track unit (not shown), a first spring unit 400d, a plurality of wheels 630d arranged to engage the track unit and roll on the track unit, a second spring arrangement 600 including a pair of second spring units connected to the bogie unit 250d, and a second adjusting element 620d coupled to the bogie unit 250d. The conveyor unit assembly 650d further includes a plurality of wheels 635 operable in the z-direction (e.g., vertically operable). Figure 9b (Only one wheel is visible). Multiple wheels 635 may, for example, include two wheels. Multiple wheels 635 may preferably include, for example, two, four, or eight wheels, i.e., a multiple of two (2...). x (There are 1, 2, 3, ... wheels).

[0077] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a conveyor unit group 650d arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Reference numerals are shown for the components of the conveyor unit group 650d. Figure 9a and / or Figure 9b And / or refer to this figure for a better understanding of the conveyor unit group 650d.

[0078] Figure 11 Is it like this? Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of the conveyor unit group 650d is shown in the image. It should be noted that... Figure 9b Compared to the reference numerals in the attached drawings of the 650d conveyor unit group, Figure 11 Some reference numerals in the drawing of the conveyor unit group 650d are missing, and other reference numerals in the drawing of the conveyor unit 650d are referenced from... Figure 9b In addition to the multiple wheels 630d that can operate in the y-direction (e.g., horizontally), Figure 11 The conveyor unit group 650d discloses multiple wheels 635 that can operate in the z-direction (e.g., vertically).

[0079] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the conveying unit group 650c arranged according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 The conveyor unit group 650c corresponds to Figure 5The conveyor unit assembly 650c includes a track unit 500c, a bogie unit 250c movably arranged on the track unit 500c (i.e., the bogie unit 250c is movable in the y-direction along an extension of the track unit 500c), and a first spring unit 400c. The conveyor unit assembly 650c further includes a plurality of wheels 630c arranged to engage the track unit 500c and roll on it. The first spring unit 400c, which is operable parallel to the x-direction (i.e., extends in the x-direction), is prestressed (biased) against an adjacent portion 410. No force will be applied to the conveyor unit assembly 650c from the first spring unit 400c until any displacement of the pressure cylinder in the x-direction (no displacement occurs), because the force between the first spring unit 400c and the adjacent portion 410 is internal. When the pressure cylinder shifts in the x-direction, the first spring unit 400c is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie unit 250c of the conveyor unit assembly 650c. More specifically, when the pressure cylinder shifts in the positive x-direction, the first spring unit 400c applies a resultant force F to the upper support of the conveyor unit assembly 650c. In contrast, when the pressure cylinder shifts in the negative x-direction, the upper support of the conveyor unit assembly 650c will be able to move (freely) without being subjected to any force applied from the first spring unit 400c. Figure 12 The diagram schematically illustrates the resultant force F applied from the first spring unit 400c to the transport unit assembly 650c under pressure cylinder displacement in the positive x-direction. Due to this force F from the first spring unit 400c, the gap (distance) d between the elements (components, blocks) of the bogie unit 250c is variable. The transport unit assembly 650c further includes a second spring arrangement 600, which is operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction. The second spring arrangement 600 includes a pair of second spring units 600a and 600b connected to the bogie unit 250c. The second spring arrangement 600 mitigates or even prevents slippage of the bogie unit 250c on the track unit 500c of the transport unit assembly 650c. At the equilibrium position corresponding to the mounting position of the pressure cylinder in the first position, the weight of the pressure cylinder is distributed across the bogie units of the bogie arrangement, and the second spring arrangement 600 is saturated.

[0080] Figure 13This is a schematic diagram of a method 1000 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The method 1000 provides a method for positioning a pressure cylinder of a pressing device in an installation position via an arrangement for mounting at least one of a first end closure and a second end closure, the first end closure being for closing a first end of the pressure cylinder, and the second end closure being for closing a second end of the pressure cylinder opposite to the first end. The arrangement includes a conveying unit comprising a bogie arrangement and a first spring arrangement operable parallel to the x-direction and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the conveying unit. The method 1000 includes the steps of conveying the pressure cylinder 1010 from a second position 310 to a first position 300 and from the first position 300 to the second position 310 via the conveying unit, the first position including the installation position, the second position being separate from the first position. The method 1000 further includes the step of positioning the pressure cylinder 1020 in an equilibrium position via the first spring arrangement, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder in the first position 300 corresponds to the installation position.

[0081] Although the invention has been shown in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such showing is to be considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive. From a study of the drawings, this disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention. In the appended claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a, an" does not exclude a plurality of. The mere fact that certain measures are referenced in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An arrangement (100) for positioning a pressure cylinder (110) of a pressing device in a mounting position (130) for mounting at least one of a first end seal (140) and a second end seal (160), the first end seal for closing a first end (150) of the pressure cylinder, and the second end seal for closing a second end (170) of the pressure cylinder opposite the first end, wherein, The arrangement includes Conveying unit (200), the conveying unit including bogie arrangement (250), the bogie arrangement being configured to deliver the pressure cylinders respectively From the second position (310) to the first position (300), and The goods are transported from the first position to the second position, the first position including the installation position, and the second position being separate from the first position. The conveying unit further includes A first spring arrangement (400) is operable parallel to the x-direction and is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the conveyor unit. The first spring arrangement is configured to position the pressure cylinder in a balanced position, wherein the balanced position of the pressure cylinder in the first position corresponds to the installation position.

2. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein, The conveying unit further includes a second spring arrangement (600) that is operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the second spring arrangement is connected to the bogie arrangement.

3. The arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The conveying unit includes multiple track units (500a-d). The bogie arrangement comprises multiple bogie units (250a-d), wherein each bogie unit is movably arranged on a corresponding track unit, and The first spring arrangement includes multiple first spring units (400a-d), wherein each first spring unit is connected to a corresponding bogie unit.

4. The arrangement according to claims 2 and 3, wherein, The second spring arrangement includes multiple second spring units (600a, 600b), wherein each second spring unit is connected to a corresponding bogie unit.

5. The arrangement according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, These multiple orbital units extend parallel to the y-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction.

6. The arrangement according to claim 5, wherein, The x-direction and the y-direction extend in a horizontal plane, and the arrangement is configured to deliver the pressure cylinder between the first position and the second position in the horizontal plane.

7. The arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one first adjusting element (610a-d), the at least one first adjusting element being coupled to... The first spring arrangement, in, The at least one first adjusting element is configured to adjust The first spring arrangement.

8. The arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one second adjusting element (620a-d), the at least one second adjusting element being coupled to the bogie arrangement and operable parallel to the z-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein, The at least one second adjusting element is configured to adjust the positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction.

9. The arrangement according to any one of claims 3 to 6, further comprising a plurality of conveying unit groups (650a-d), wherein, At least the first conveyor unit group among the plurality of conveyor unit groups includes One of the multiple orbital units One of the multiple bogie units, and One of the multiple first spring units is a first spring unit. These conveying unit groups are arranged separately and spaced apart from each other.

10. The arrangement according to claims 4 and 9, wherein, At least the second conveyor unit group among these conveyor unit groups includes One of the multiple orbital units One of the multiple bogie units One of the plurality of first spring units, and One of the multiple second spring units is the second spring unit. These conveying unit groups are arranged separately and spaced apart from each other.

11. The arrangement according to claims 9 and 10, wherein the arrangement includes The first pair (700) of the first conveying unit group, and The second pair (710) of the second conveyor unit group, in, The first pair of first conveying unit groups and the second pair of second conveying unit groups are respectively arranged on both sides of the pressure cylinder in the direction of movement from the second position to the first position and from the first position to the second position relative to the pressure cylinder.

12. The arrangement according to claim 9, wherein the arrangement includes The first pair (700) of the first conveying unit group, and Rear (650x) First conveyor unit group, in, The first pair of first conveying unit groups and the rear first conveying unit group are respectively arranged on both sides of the pressure cylinder in the direction of movement from the second position to the first position and from the first position to the second position relative to the pressure cylinder. The track unit of the first rear conveying unit group extends parallel to the y-direction and perpendicular to the x-direction. The first spring unit of the rear first conveying unit group includes two springs (405a, 405b), which are arranged on opposite sides of the track unit in a plane parallel to the x and y directions.

13. A system comprising Pressing equipment (120), the pressing equipment being used to process at least one article, wherein, The pressing equipment includes A pressure cylinder (110) for holding the at least one article, wherein the pressure cylinder includes a first end (150) and a second end (170) opposite to the first end, a first end closure (140) for closing the first end of the pressure cylinder, and a second end closure (160) for closing the second end of the pressure cylinder, and Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein, The pressing device is arranged horizontally, thereby extending the pressure cylinder horizontally.

15. A method (1000) for positioning a pressure cylinder (110) of a pressing device in a mounting position (130) via an arrangement for mounting at least one of a first end closure (140) and a second end closure (160), the first end closure for closing a first end (150) of the pressure cylinder, the second end closure for closing a second end (170) of the pressure cylinder opposite the first end, the arrangement comprising Conveying unit (200), the conveying unit includes Bogie arrangement (250). A first spring arrangement (400) is operable parallel to the x-direction and is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the conveyor unit. in, The method includes the following steps: The pressure cylinders are respectively conveyed by the conveying unit. Transport (1010) from the second position (310) to the first position (300), and The goods are transported from the first position to the second position, the first position including the mounting position, and the second position being separate from the first position. The pressure cylinder (1020) is positioned (1020) in a balanced position via the first spring arrangement, wherein the balanced position of the pressure cylinder in the first position corresponds to the installation position.

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