Furnace electrode handling device

Abstract

Apparatus for engaging electrodes provides a furnace comprising a vessel and electrodes. In some embodiments, a support assembly (50) supports the electrodes outside the vessel and comprises a cart (102) or similar device that allows or facilitates selective vertical movement of the electrodes and selective lateral movement of the electrodes. In some embodiments, a push assembly (52) engages a back side of the electrodes outside the vessel and is operable to apply a pushing force to the back side. The push assembly can include one or more tracks (e.g., threaded screws) that support a body between opposing arms of a stationary frame. The body can be translated along the tracks to apply the pushing force to the electrodes.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application No. 201980065865.7, filed on August 27, 2019, entitled "Furnace Electrode Transport Device".

[0002] Interactive Reference

[0003] This case asserts priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 727,789, filed on September 6, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This application generally relates to systems and methods for melting batches. More specifically, this application relates to apparatus and methods for mechanically engaging or supporting electrodes provided as part of a system for melting batches, such as an electrode assembly for melting glass batches. Background Technology

[0005] A furnace can be used to melt various batches of material, such as glass and metal batches. The batch can be placed in a container with two or more electrodes and melted by applying voltage to the electrodes to drive an electric current through the batch, thereby heating and melting it (or supplementing with heating energy generated from other sources, such as the combustion of fuel). The lifespan of a furnace depends on the wear of the electrodes. For reference, the “hot side” or “front” of an electrode is the electrode end face that is closest to or in contact with the batch within the furnace. The “cold side” or “back side” is opposite to the hot side and is the electrode end face furthest from the molten batch. The length of the electrode is the distance between the hot and cold sides. During melting, the hot side of the electrode may gradually wear down due to contact with the molten batch, thus reducing the length of the electrode. At some point, the hot side of the electrode may become too short, potentially impairing the safe and / or efficient operation of the furnace.

[0006] In some furnace configurations, the electrodes are periodically advanced into the vessel to reposition the worn hot surface in the desired location relative to the vessel wall, the volume of the batch, other electrodes, etc. For example, the electrode is inserted through a channel or through-hole in the vessel sidewall with the cold surface located outside the vessel wall. When needed, thrust is applied to the cold surface to advance the electrode relative to the vessel chamber.

[0007] Where the electrodes have relatively small size and / or mass, it may not be necessary to support them outside the melting vessel wall, and the means or mechanisms by which the operator applies the required thrust can be greatly simplified. However, for some furnace configurations, electrode assemblies consisting of electrode arrays are used. Electrode assemblies can have relatively large size and mass. Moreover, to extend the service life or operation of the furnace, manufacturers have strived to use electrodes or electrode assemblies with increased length. Under these and other conditions, existing means for supporting electrodes or electrode assemblies outside the melting vessel wall and / or facilitating the application of thrust to the electrodes or electrode assemblies may be insufficient.

[0008] Therefore, this application discloses apparatus for joining or processing electrodes or electrode groups at a location outside the wall of a melting vessel, such as supporting electrodes or electrode groups and / or facilitating the application of thrust to the electrodes or electrode groups, as in a furnace system including such apparatus. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Some embodiments of this invention relate to a push assembly provided with a system for melting batches of material. The system also includes a container and an electrode. The container includes at least one sidewall and defines a melting chamber. The electrode is disposed within the sidewall and defines a front (or "hot") face facing the melting chamber and a back face opposite the front face. The push assembly includes a mounting frame, a body, and at least one track. The mounting frame is fixed to the container. The body is connected to the back face of the electrode. The track connects the mounting frame to the body. In this respect, the body is movable along the length of the track to move the body relative to the mounting frame and apply thrust to the back face of the electrode. In some embodiments, the mounting frame includes a forearm proximal to the container and a tail arm opposite the forearm. Using these and related embodiments, the track extends between the forearm and the tail arm and connects to the forearm and the tail arm. The track may be a threaded screw, and the body is provided with a threaded engagement with the track, such that the body translates along the threaded screw as the threaded screw rotates relative to the mounting frame. In some embodiments, one or more contact mechanisms (e.g., pressure bolts) are carried by the body and connect the body to the back side of the electrode.

[0010] Other embodiments of this invention relate to a support assembly having a system for melting batches of material. The system also includes a container and electrodes. The container includes at least one sidewall and defines a melting chamber. The electrodes are disposed within the sidewall and define a front facing the melting chamber and a back facing the front. The support assembly includes a first support unit and a second support unit configured to optionally form a trolley, for example, on the first support unit. The first support unit includes a top support block and a base plate. The electrodes are supported by the top support block. The second support unit includes an upper body and a lower body. The first support unit is supported by the upper body. The first support unit is configured to allow selective movement (e.g., lateral movement) of the top support block relative to the base plate in a first plane. The second support unit is configured to allow selective movement of the upper body relative to the lower body in a second plane different from the first plane. For example, the first support unit may facilitate lateral adjustment or movement of the electrodes, while the second support unit may facilitate vertical adjustment or movement of the electrodes. In some embodiments, the first support unit includes a plurality of wheels that allow the top support block to move laterally relative to the base plate, and a locking device for locking the top support block relative to the base plate. In some embodiments, the second support unit includes a wedge-shaped body slidably disposed between the upper body and the lower body.

[0011] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following detailed description, and will be apparent in part to those skilled in the art, or by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the following detailed description, claims, and drawings.

[0012] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description depict various embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or summary for understanding the nature and characteristics of the claimed subject matter of the invention. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the various embodiments and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate the various embodiments described herein and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles and operation of the claimed subject matter of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional view of a furnace system including an electrode bonding unit according to the principles of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 2A It can be used Figure 1 Front perspective view of the trolley supporting the electrode bonding unit.

[0015] Figure 2B yes Figure 2ARear perspective view of the cart;

[0016] Figure 3A yes Figure 1 A simplified side sectional view of a part of a furnace system, including Figure 2A The trolley supporting the electrode assembly;

[0017] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A simplified end view of the configuration;

[0018] Figure 4A It can be used Figure 1 A simplified side view of the push assembly of the electrode bonding unit;

[0019] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of a portion of the pusher component along line 4B-4B;

[0020] Figure 4C yes Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of a portion of the pusher component along line 4C-4C;

[0021] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 A simplified side cross-sectional view of a part of the furnace system, including Figure 4A The drive assembly installed to engage the electrode assembly;

[0022] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A simplified top cross-sectional view of the configuration;

[0023] Figure 6A yes Figure 5A A simplified side cross-sectional view of the configuration after electrode assembly wear;

[0024] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A simplified top cross-sectional view of the configuration;

[0025] Figure 7A yes Figure 6A A simplified side cross-sectional view of the configuration after the electrode assembly is advanced by operating the actuating component; and

[0026] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A A simplified top cross-sectional view of the configuration. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Reference will then be made in detail to various embodiments of systems and methods for melting batches, and in particular to various embodiments of devices and methods for monitoring furnace operation, such as estimating the actual length of electrodes in the furnace vessel. Wherever possible, the same element symbols will be used in all the figures to denote the same or similar parts. However, this invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0028] Reference Figure 1 This description illustrates an embodiment of the present invention, depicting an exemplary furnace system 30 for melting batch 32. The furnace 30 may include a container 34, at least one electrode 36, and at least one electrode engagement unit 38 (for reference). Detailed descriptions of the various components are provided below. Generally, the container 34 may take various forms and typically includes or defines sidewalls 40 and a bottom plate or base 42, which combine to define a chamber 44. Batch 32 may be introduced into the chamber 44 through inlet 46. Batch 32 may then be heated and melted in the container 34 by any suitable method or combination thereof, such as conventional melting techniques, such as by contact with the sidewalls 40 and / or the bottom plate 42, which may be heated in the container 34 by a burner (not shown) and / or by contact with the electrodes 36 (or by an electric current flowing between the two electrodes 36). The molten batch 32 may flow out of the chamber 44 of the container through outlet 48 for further processing. Electrode engagement unit 38 is provided for at least one of the electrodes 36 and may include a support component 50 and a pushing component 52 (shown in block diagram form). The support component 50 supports a portion of the electrode 36 outside the container 34. The pushing component 52 facilitates selective advance of the electrode 36 relative to the container 34. Some aspects of this application relate to one or both of the support component 50 and the pushing component 52.

[0029] The term "batch" and its variations are used herein to refer to a mixture of precursor components that react and / or combine upon melting to form the final desired material composition. A batch can include, for example, glass precursor materials or metal alloy precursor materials. A batch can be prepared and / or mixed by any known method for combining precursor materials. For example, in some non-limiting embodiments, a batch may comprise a dry or substantially dry mixture of precursor particles, e.g., without any solvent or liquid. In other embodiments, a batch may be in the form of a slurry, e.g., a mixture of precursor particles in the presence of a liquid or solvent.

[0030] According to various embodiments, the batch material may include glass precursor materials such as silica, alumina, and various other oxides such as boron oxide, magnesium oxide, calcium oxide, sodium oxide, strontium oxide, tin oxide, or titanium oxide. For example, the glass batch material may be a mixture of silica and / or alumina with one or more other oxides. In various embodiments, the glass batch material comprises a total of about 45 to about 95 wt% alumina and / or silica, and a total of about 5 to about 55 wt% an oxide of at least one of boron, magnesium, calcium, sodium, strontium, tin, and / or titanium.

[0031] Batch 32 can be melted using any suitable method, such as conventional glass and / or metal melting techniques. For example, batch 32 can be added to chamber 44 and heated to a temperature ranging from about 1100 degrees Celsius (°C) to about 1700°C, such as from about 1200°C to about 1650°C, from about 1250°C to about 1600°C, from about 1300°C to about 1550°C, from about 1350°C to about 1500°C, or from about 1400°C to about 1450°C, including all ranges and subranges therein. In some embodiments, depending on various variables, such as operating temperature and batch size, and the particle size of the composition of batch 32, the batch can have a residence time in container 34 ranging from minutes to hours to days or longer. For example, the duration of stay can be from about 30 minutes to about 3 days, from about 1 hour to about 2 days, from about 2 hours to about 1 day, from about 3 hours to about 12 hours, from about 4 hours to about 10 hours, or from about 6 hours to about 8 hours, including all ranges and subranges in between.

[0032] In the case of glass processing, the molten glass material can subsequently undergo various additional processing steps, including clarification to remove air bubbles and stirring to homogenize the glass melt. The molten glass can then be processed using any known method, such as fusion drawing, slot drawing, and float glass techniques, to produce a glass ribbon. Subsequently, in non-limiting embodiments, the glass ribbon can be formed into a glass sheet, cut, polished, and / or otherwise processed.

[0033] Container 34 can be formed of any insulating or heat-resistant material suitable for the desired melting process, such as refractory materials like zircon, zirconium oxide, alumina, magnesium oxide, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride, precious metals like platinum and platinum alloys, and combinations thereof. According to various embodiments, portions (e.g., sidewalls 38, floor 40, etc.) may include an outer layer with a heat-resistant lining, such as a refractory material or a precious metal. Container 34 can have any suitable shape or size for the desired application, and in some embodiments, may have a cross-section such as circular, elliptical, square, or polygonal. The dimensions of container 34, including length, height, width, and depth, can vary depending on the desired application. Sizes can be selected to suit a particular process or system. Although Figure 1 A container 34 with an inlet 46 and an outlet 48 is shown, which is suitable for continuous processing, but it should be understood that other container configurations may be used, which may or may not include inlets and / or outlets, and which may be used for batch or semi-batch processing.

[0034] Electrode 36 may comprise any material suitable for the desired melting application. For example, the electrode material may be selected such that normal wear or corrosion of electrode 36 during operation has little or no adverse effect on the batch composition and / or the final product. In various non-limiting embodiments, such as glass melting operations, one or more electrodes 36 may comprise one or more oxides, or other materials that may be present in the final glass composition. For example, electrode 36 may comprise oxides already present in batch 32 (e.g., nominally increasing the amount of oxides in the final product) or oxides not present in batch 32 (e.g., introducing small or trace amounts of oxides into the final composition). As a non-limiting example, one or more electrodes 36 may comprise tin oxide, molybdenum oxide, zirconium oxide, tungsten, molybdenum-zirconium oxide, platinum and other noble metals, graphite, silicon carbide and other suitable materials and alloys thereof.

[0035] The support and actuation components in this application can be used in various electrode configurations. For example, Figure 1 Non-limiting embodiments of the invention reflect the engagement of the support assembly 50 and the actuating assembly 52 with a monolithic electrode assembly or block 60, the monolithic electrode assembly or block comprising a plurality of electrodes 36 assembled or configured relative to each other in an array format. In other embodiments, the support assembly and / or actuating assembly may engage with individual electrodes among the electrodes 36. For this reason, unless otherwise stated, the terms "electrode" and "electrode block" are used interchangeably in this invention.

[0036] One or more electrodes 36 are assembled in the sidewall 40 and extend through a respective sidewall 40. For example, Figure 1 The figure illustrates the first electrode assembly 60 assembled into the sidewall 40a. Specifically, the electrode assembly 60 is disposed in the opening 70 through the thickness of the first sidewall 40a and configured to be exposed to or in contact with the batch material 32 contained in the chamber 44. In some embodiments, a glass contact block 72 is provided as part of or within the sidewall 40a and supports the electrode assembly 60.

[0037] Electrode assembly 60 is shown extending through opening 70 and substantially flush with the inner surface 74 of the first sidewall 40a (and thus exposed to the chamber 44 and the contained batch 32). In other embodiments, one or more electrodes 36 (individually or as part of an electrode assembly) may be configured to protrude beyond the respective inner surface of the sidewall. In other embodiments, one or more electrodes 36 (individually or as part of an electrode assembly) may be configured to terminate within the thickness of the respective sidewall 40a in such a way that the electrode 36 engages directly with the batch 32 contained in the chamber 44 via the opening 70 in the inner surface 74. In any case, when finally assembled into the container 34, each electrode 36 and electrode assembly 60 may be considered or regarded as defining the front (or "hot") side 80 opposite the back (or "cold") side 82. The front end 80 is the electrode end face closest to or in contact with the batch 32 and opens into the chamber 44 (e.g., the front end 80 is located within the chamber 44, or within the thickness of the sidewall 40a, and exposed to the batch 32 within the chamber 44 via the opening 70). The back end 82 is the electrode end face furthest from the batch 32 and is neither within nor open into the chamber 44. As described below, the region of the electrode assembly 60 outside the sidewall 40a is supported by the support assembly 50.

[0038] In some embodiments, the assembly of each electrode 36 (individually or as part of the electrode assembly 60) to the container 34 (e.g., to a corresponding sidewall 40) allows the electrode 36 to advance relative to the corresponding sidewall 40 (and therefore relative to the chamber 44). For example, the electrode assembly 60 is mounted to the first sidewall 40a such that the electrode assembly 60 can slide or push relative to the first sidewall 40a, thereby repositioning the front face 80 relative to the chamber 44. During operation, the electrode assembly 60 is subjected to wear over time, primarily at the front face 80. In other words, the front face 80 will physically erode towards the back face 82. When the electrode assembly 60 is stationary or fixed relative to the first sidewall 40a, the physical position of the front face 80 relative to the first sidewall 40a will therefore change with the wear of the electrode assembly 60. In these cases and in embodiments where the electrode assembly 60 is slidably mounted to the first wall 40a, the electrode assembly 60 can advance periodically toward the chamber 44 via the pushing assembly 52 (i.e., directly relative to the chamber 44). Figure 1 (Move to the right according to the orientation) to reposition the now worn front surface 80 in the desired position relative to the inner surface 74.

[0039] although Figure 1 The illustration shows six electrodes 36 (five of which are configured with electrode groups 60), but it should be understood that any number of electrodes may be used as needed or anticipated for a particular application. In some embodiments, the electrode pairs may be aligned with each other to the dimensions of the container 34. For example, in Figure 1In a non-limiting example, the complementary electrode 36a is aligned with the electrode group 60; electrical conduction can pass through the electrode group 60 and the complementary electrode 36a, and thus through the batch 32. In some embodiments, the complementary electrode 36a may be provided as part of the electrode group, wherein paired electrode groups are located on opposite sides of the container 34. Other electrode configurations are also acceptable. Furthermore, although Figure 1 The illustration shows a support assembly 50 and a push assembly 52 engaged with an electrode assembly 60, which in other ways consists of a plurality of electrodes 36, but in other embodiments, the support assembly 50 and / or the push assembly 52 of this invention may engage with a single one of these electrodes 36.

[0040] These electrodes 36 may have any size and / or shape suitable for operation in a furnace. For example, in some embodiments, electrodes 36 may be shaped as rods or blocks. Electrodes 36 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as square, circular, or any other regular or irregular shape. Moreover, the initial length of electrodes 36 may vary depending on the application and / or size of container 34. In some non-limiting embodiments, the initial length of electrodes 36 may be from about 10 centimeters (cm) to about 200 cm, for example, from about 20 cm to about 175 cm, from about 30 cm to about 150 cm, from about 40 cm to about 125 cm, from about 50 cm to about 100 cm, or from about 60 cm to about 75 cm, including all ranges and subranges therein. Electrode assembly 60 may also have various shapes and sizes. In some non-limiting examples, electrode assembly 60 may have an initial length of about 36 inches and a weight (or mass) of at least about 3,000 pounds. The support component 50 and the push component 52 of the present invention are configured to securely engage with an electrode assembly that is at least 36 inches long and weighs at least 3,000 pounds, and are also suitable for engaging smaller and / or lighter electrode configurations.

[0041] For reference, the electrodes 36 in the sidewall 40 are connected to a power source (not shown), such as a power source with an alternating voltage, which provides a controlled current through the batch 32 (e.g., having a paired configuration of two sets of electrodes at opposite sidewalls 40, one set of electrodes 36 connected to one pole of the power source, and the second set of electrodes 36 connected to the other pole of the same power source). Therefore, although not in Figure 1 As illustrated in the diagram, electrical connection devices or units can be located on the back surface 82 of electrode 36 or electrode group 60. Furthermore, other conventionally used devices or components can be provided by or carried by the back surface 82; for example, the back surface 82 can be connected to the water cooling jacket via an intermediate flexible metal mesh.

[0042] Support component 50

[0043] Based on the foregoing general description, the support assembly 50 is located outside the container 34 and includes various components suitable for supporting the electrode assembly 60. In some embodiments, the support assembly 50 may include a fastener 100 and a trolley 102. The fastener 100 is mounted to a ground structure that otherwise supports the container 34 (e.g., the floor of the building housing the container 34), and the fastener 100 provides an upper surface 104 on which the trolley 102 is held. The fastener 100 may have various different configurations (e.g., materials, shapes, etc.) suitable for supporting the weight of the electrode assembly 60. The trolley 102 is disposed between the upper surface 104 and the electrode assembly 60. Some aspects of this application relate to embodiments of the trolley 102.

[0044] exist Figure 2A and 2B An example of a trolley 102 is illustrated in more detail below. The trolley 102 includes a first support unit 110 (general reference) and a second support unit 112 (general reference). As described in more detail below, the first support unit 110 contacts the electrode assembly 60 (…). Figure 1 ), and configured to facilitate movement of the electrode assembly 60 relative to other components of the trolley 102 in a first plane or direction. The second support unit 112 is relative to the fixing member 100 ( Figure 1 The first support unit 110 is supported and configured to facilitate movement of the electrode assembly 60 in a second plane or direction. For example, relative to the X, Y, Z coordinate system indicated in the view, the first support unit 110 is facilitated to move laterally along the X-axis, and the second support unit 112 is facilitated to move vertically along the Z-axis.

[0045] The first support unit 110 includes a top support block 120, a base plate 122, and a lateral expansion mechanism 124 (generally speaking). The top support block 120 is held relative to the base plate 122 by the expansion mechanism 124 in a manner that allows selective movement of the top support block 120 (e.g., selective lateral movement) (i.e., in some cases, in response to an input force, the top support block 120 is allowed or moved relative to the base plate 122, and in other cases, it remains stationary or held in a selected position relative to the base plate 122), as described below.

[0046] The top support block 120 is typically configured to directly contact and support (e.g., under gravity) an electrode or electrode assembly (e.g., the electrode assembly 60 described above). Figure 1The top support block 120 can take many forms. Other top support blocks 120 define a bearing surface 130, to which the electrode or electrode assembly is received. In some embodiments, the top support block 120 is configured such that the bearing surface 130 is substantially flat or planar (i.e., within 10% of a truly flat or planar surface) and maintains a substantially flat or planar shape when subjected to a load of at least approximately 3000 pounds. The top support block 120 may be formed of a suitable insulating material, such as an electrically insulating, high-temperature stable material, such as fiber-reinforced alumina composite material available from ZIRCAR Refractory Composites under the trade name RS-100. In some alternative embodiments, the first support unit 110 may include a frame defining a pocket in which the top support block 120 is loosely held. Although the first support unit 110 is shown as including a single top support block 120, in other embodiments, two or more blocks (or other insulating bodies or components) may be provided and collectively form the bearing surface 130. In some examples, the top support block 120 may have a thickness of at least 0.5 inches for electrical isolation, but other sizes are also acceptable.

[0047] The base plate 122 may be a substantially planar body (i.e., within 10% of a truly planar body) formed of a material constructed to maintain its structural integrity under the action of anticipated forces (e.g., when subjected to a load of at least approximately 3,000 pounds). For example, the base plate 122 may be stainless steel, but other materials are also contemplated. The base plate 122 may have various shapes and sizes, and in some embodiments, the size is determined based on other features of the trolley 102, as described in more detail below. More generally, the shape of the base plate 122 defines mutually opposing first and second side edges 132, 134, mutually opposing first and second end edges 136, 138, and a guide surface 140.

[0048] The lateral extension mechanism 124 can take various forms to facilitate selective lateral adjustment or movement of the top support block 120 relative to the base plate 122, and in some embodiments may include multiple wheels, such as wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d, and a locking device 152 (generally refuted). Wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d are configured to roll, slide, or otherwise move along a guide surface 140. The top support block 120 is connected to the wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d such that the top support block 120 moves relative to the base plate 122 along the guide surface 140 by rotation (or other movement) of the wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d. For example, wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d can be rotatably mounted to a rigid frame 154, which in turn carries the top support block 120. Other forms of indirect connection between wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d and the top support block 120 are also acceptable. In other embodiments, wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d can be directly rotatably mounted to the top support block 120. However, in some embodiments, wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d, together with the base plate 122, are configured to limit or prevent significant lateral displacement or movement in the Y-axis direction. For example, each of wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d may include a rolling surface 156 and a flange 158 (in... Figure 2A(Illustrated as first wheel 150a). A flange 158 projects radially relative to the rolling surface 156, defining an outer diameter larger than the diameter of the rolling surface 156. Wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, and 150d are configured relative to the base plate 122 such that the respective rolling surfaces 156 contact the guide surface 140, and the flange 158 protrudes beyond one of the respective side edges 132 and 134 (e.g., the flange 158 of the first wheel 150a protrudes beyond the first side edge 132). With this configuration, wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, and 150d can each roll along or relative to the guide surface 140 via their respective rolling surfaces 156 to achieve lateral movement of the top support block 120 in the X-axis direction. Furthermore, wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, and 150d are effectively held laterally relative to the side edges 132 and 134 in the Y-axis direction via engagement between the flange 158 and the respective side edges 132. For example, the engagement between the flanges 158 of the first and second wheels 150a, 150b and the first side edge 132 prevents the top support block 120 from moving significantly in the direction of the second side edge 134. Similarly, the engagement between the flanges 158 of the third and fourth wheels 150c, 150d and the second side edge 134 prevents the top support block 120 from moving significantly in the direction of the first side edge 132. Although the lateral extension mechanism 124 is illustrated to include four wheels 150a, 150b, 150c, 150d, any other larger or smaller number is acceptable. Furthermore, the lateral extension mechanism 124 may take other forms that facilitate lateral movement of the top support block 120 relative to the base plate 122, which may or may not include wheels.

[0049] Locking device 152 is typically configured to limit the extent of lateral movement (in the X-axis direction) of top support block 120 relative to base plate 122 and selectively lock top support block 120 in a desired lateral position. In some non-limiting embodiments, locking device 152 may include mutually opposing stop elements 160, 162 and locking element 164. Stop elements 160, 162 may be rigid bodies (e.g., stainless steel blocks) assembled to and projecting upward from guide surface 140, adjacent to one of the respective end edges 136, 138. When top support block 120 moves in the direction of the respective end edges 136, 138, stop elements 160, 162 are sized and shaped to contact frame 154. For example, when frame 154 (and therefore top support block 120) moves laterally in the direction of first end edge 136, first stop element 160 prevents frame 154 (and therefore top support block 120) from moving beyond first end edge 136. Other components or constructions may also be accepted to limit significant lateral movement of the top support block 120 relative to the base plate 122.

[0050] The locking element 164 can take various forms suitable for locking the top support block 120 relative to the base plate 122 in a desired lateral position or positioning. In some embodiments, the locking element 164 can be bolted threadedly to a corresponding one of the stop elements 160, 162. Once the top support block 120 is in the desired lateral position, the bolt 164 is rotated or otherwise advanced to contact the frame 154 (on its opposite side), thereby preventing further lateral movement. Loosening the bolt 164 allows the frame 154, and therefore the top support block 120, to move laterally relative to the base plate 122 in the X-axis direction. Other locking device structures, which may or may not include threaded bolts, are also acceptable.

[0051] The second support unit 112 may include at least one upper body 170a, 170b, at least one lower body 172a, 172b, at least one wedge-shaped body 174a, 174b, and an actuator mechanism 176 (generally speaking), as well as a base 178. Each upper body 170a, 170b is fixed to the base plate 122. Each lower body 172a, 172b is fixed to the base 178 and is vertically aligned with a corresponding one of the upper bodies 170a, 170b. A corresponding one of the wedge-shaped bodies 174a, 174b is disposed between the vertically aligned portions of the upper and lower bodies (i.e., the first wedge-shaped body 174a is located between the first upper body 170a and the first lower body 172a, and the second wedge-shaped body 174b is located between the second upper body 170b and the second lower body 172b). Actuator mechanism 176 is configured to selectively change the position of wedge-shaped bodies 174a, 174b relative to upper and lower bodies 170a, 170b, 172a, 172b to achieve the desired vertical spacing (in the Z-axis direction) between base plate 122 and base 178. Through these and similar configurations, the second support unit is configured to allow selective movement of upper bodies 170a, 170b relative to lower bodies 172a, 172b (i.e., in some cases, in response to input force, upper bodies 170a, 170b are actuated or allowed to move relative to lower bodies 172a, 172b, and in other cases, remain stationary or remain in a selected position relative to lower bodies 172a, 172b). Furthermore, base 178 can be configured to cause trolley 102 to engage with fixing member 100 (…). Figure 1 The connection of ) is as follows.

[0052] The upper bodies 170a and 170b may have similar or identical structures, and their dimensions and shapes are typically designed to provide an inclined surface 180 when finally assembled to the base plate 122. Figure 2B(Referring to the second upper body 170b). For example, upper bodies 170a and 170b may each have a triangular shape. In any case, during final assembly, the inclined surface 180 is located opposite the base plate 122. The inclined surface 180 may be substantially planar (i.e., within 10 degrees of a truly flat surface) and configured to taper towards the base plate 122 in a direction from the first side edge 132 toward the second side edge 134. The upper bodies 170a and 170b may be formed of a rigid, structurally robust material selected to maintain the shape of the inclined surface 180 under the action of intended forces. For example, in some non-limiting embodiments, the upper bodies 170a and 170b are formed of a silicon-bronze material, but other materials (e.g., stainless steel) are also acceptable.

[0053] The lower bodies 172a and 172b may be similar to or identical to the upper bodies 170a and 170b, and the size and shape of each lower body 172a and 172b are configured to provide an inclined surface 182 when finally assembled to the base 178. Figure 2B (Referring to the second lower body 172b). The inclined surface 182 may be substantially planar as described above. During final assembly, the inclined surfaces 182 of the lower bodies 172a and 172b are configured as mirror images of the inclined surfaces 180 of the corresponding upper bodies 170a and 170b (e.g., the inclined surface 182 of the second lower body 172b is a mirror image of the inclined surface 180 of the second upper body 170b). The lower bodies 172a and 172b may be made of the same rigid material as the upper bodies 170a and 170b, such as silicon-bronze.

[0054] The wedge-shaped bodies 174a and 174b may have similar or identical structures, and their typical dimensions and shapes are designed to nest in a sliding wedge-like manner between the inclined surfaces 180 and 182 of the corresponding aligned upper and lower body pairs 170a / 172a and 170b / 172b. For example, each wedge-shaped body 174a and 174b defines mutually opposing inclined surfaces 184 and 186 (for the second wedge-shaped body 174b). As described above, the inclined surfaces 184 and 186 may be substantially planar. In final assembly, the planarity of the first inclined surface 184 mimics the planarity of the inclined surface 180 of the corresponding upper body 170a and 170b, and the planarity of the second inclined surface 186 mimics the planarity of the inclined surface 182 of the corresponding lower body 172a and 172b. With this structure, each wedge-shaped body 174a, 174b can move in the Y-axis direction relative to the corresponding upper and lower body pairs 170a / 172a, 170b / 172b, with the first inclined surface 184 sliding along the inclined surface 180 of the corresponding upper body 170a, 170b, and the second inclined surface 186 sliding along the inclined surface 182 of the corresponding lower body 172a, 172b.

[0055] Although the second support unit 112 has been described as providing two sets of wedge-shaped joints (i.e., the first upper body 170a, the first wedge-shaped body 174a, the first lower body 172a, and the second upper body 170b, the second wedge-shaped body 174b, and the second lower body 172b), any other larger or smaller number may also be accepted.

[0056] The actuator mechanism 176 can take various forms suitable for a user to cause movement of the wedge-shaped bodies 174a, 174b relative to the upper and lower bodies 170a, 170b, 172a, 172b, and in some embodiments includes a side panel 190, a bracket 192, a shaft 194, and an actuator 196. The side panel 190 is a rigid body (e.g., stainless steel) fixed to and extending vertically between the base plate 122 and the base 178. The lower bodies 172a, 172b are fixed to the side panel 190. The upper bodies 170a, 170b are slidably connected to the side panel 190. For example, the side panel 190 may define a vertical groove 198 (one of which is in…) Figure 2A (as indicated by the reference numeral), slidably receives pin 200 (one of which is in) within the groove 198. Figure 2A (See reference numeral). Pin 200 is connected to one of the upper bodies 170a and 170b respectively. With this configuration, the upper bodies 170a and 170b can move vertically (i.e., in the Z-axis direction) relative to the side panel 190 (the attached pin 200 slides in the corresponding vertical slot 198), but are essentially prevented from moving relative to the side panel 190 in other directions (i.e., in the X-axis and Y-axis directions). The lower bodies 172a and 172b are spatially fixed relative to the side panel 190.

[0057] The bracket 192 may be a rod or similar structure, sized to nest between opposing upper and lower body pairs 170a / 172a, 170b / 172b. Wedge-shaped bodies 174a, 174b are respectively attached to one of the opposing ends of the bracket 192. Through this structure, the bracket 192 positions and holds each of the wedge-shaped bodies 174a, 174b between the corresponding upper and lower body pairs 170a / 172a, 170b / 172b (e.g., the first wedge-shaped body 174a is held between the first upper body 170a and the first lower body 172a).

[0058] Shaft 194 is coupled to and protrudes from bracket 192. In some embodiments, shaft 194 may be threaded to bracket 192. Alternatively, a more fixed relationship may be established between shaft 194 and bracket 192. In any case, shaft 194 extends from bracket 192 and passes through hole 202 in side panel 190 (in Figure 2A(Partially visible in the middle). As shown, actuator 196 is connected to shaft 194 adjacent to side panel 190, and in some embodiments may resemble a bolt head. The size or external dimensions of actuator 196 are larger than the size or dimensions of hole 202. With this configuration, actuator 196 abuts against the surface of side panel 190.

[0059] During use, shaft 194 rotates with rotation caused by the user of actuator 196, causing bracket 192 to move toward or away from side panel 190 (i.e., in the Y-axis direction) due to the threaded connection between shaft 194 and bracket 192. Alternatively, shaft 194 may be fixed to bracket 192 and threadedly connected to actuator 196. In any case, wedge bodies 174a, 174b move toward or away from side panel 190 together with bracket 192, sliding along corresponding inclined surfaces 180, 182, while upper and lower bodies 170a, 170b, 172a, 172b remain spatially fixed in the Y-axis direction. In response to rotation of actuator 196, the movement of wedge bodies 174a, 174b relative to side panel 190 thus changes the vertical spacing or gap (i.e., in the Z-axis direction) between the first upper body 170a and the first lower body 172a, and between the second upper body 170b and the second lower body 172b. Compared to Figure 2A and 2B In the upright direction, with the base 178 and therefore the lower bodies 172a, 172b spatially fixed in the Z-axis direction (for example, when the trolley 102 is placed on the fixing member 100 ( Figure 1 When the wedge-shaped bodies 174a and 174b move toward the side panel 190, the upper bodies 170a and 170b will thus shift vertically upward relative to the base 178 (i.e., from...). Figure 2A and Figure 2B (Configuration movement). In these same cases, the movement of the wedge-shaped bodies 174a, 174b away from the side panel 190 allows the upper bodies 170a, 170b to move vertically downward toward the base 178 (e.g., under the influence of gravity). Other actuator mechanisms that facilitate user-induced vertical movement of the base plate 120 relative to the base 178 are also acceptable, and may include or may not include the rotatable shaft 194.

[0060] The base 178 is sized and shaped to support the other components of the trolley 102 and is formed of a selected rigid material (e.g., stainless steel) to maintain its structural integrity under the expected forces. In some non-limiting embodiments, the base 178 may define a cavity 204 (in... Figure 2B (As indicated by the reference numeral), the lower bodies 172a and 172b are assembled with the side panel 190 within the cavity 204. The cavity 204 is sized to accommodate the wedge-shaped bodies 174a and 174b (i.e., ...) in a lower configuration of the trolley 102. Figure 2A and 2B The configuration of the trolley 102 (as described in the original text) reduces the overall profile or obstructed area of ​​the trolley 102. Other configurations are also acceptable. In some non-limiting embodiments, two or more wheels 206 are rotatably coupled to the base 178. The wheels 206 can take various forms and can be configured relative to the fixing member 100 (…). Figure 1 The trolley 102 can be movably gripped, as described in more detail below. In other embodiments, the wheels 206 may be omitted.

[0061] Support component 50 Figure 3A and 3B As illustrated, the electrode assembly 60 is supported relative to the container 34. As described above, the electrode assembly 60 is configured to pass through an opening 70 in the sidewall 40a; the support assembly 50 supports a portion of the electrode assembly 60 outside the container 34. The fastener 100 is aligned with the opening 70 and is fixed relative to the container 34, for example, by means of a beam 220. Alternatively, other mounting structures may be used to spatially fix the position of the fastener 100 relative to the container 34. A trolley 102 is located between the electrode assembly 60 and the fastener 100. A top support block 120 is in physical contact with the bottom surface 222 of the electrode assembly 60, and a base 178 and / or wheels 206 are in physical contact with the fastener 100. In some embodiments, the trolley 102 may be positioned to contact the bottom surface 222 of the electrode assembly 60 at or near the back surface 82. In any case, the trolley 102 and the fastener 100 jointly support the weight of the electrode assembly 60.

[0062] In some embodiments, engagement between the trolley 102 and the fixture 100 allows the trolley 102 to be articulated relative to the fixture 100. For example, the trolley 102 may include a wheel 206 that contacts the upper surface 104 of the fixture 100. The upper surface 104 may have a track-like structure that laterally grips the wheel 206 and thus grips the base 178 relative to the fixture 100 (i.e., in the X-axis direction). However, rolling engagement between the wheel 206 and the upper surface 104 allows the trolley 102 to be articulated laterally relative to the fixture 100 and thus relative to the sidewall 40a (i.e., in the Y-axis direction). As mentioned above, periodically advancing the electrode assembly 40 relative to the sidewall 40a may be useful (e.g., to adjust for wear on the front surface 80). In these and other cases, the trolley 102 facilitates the forward movement of the electrode assembly 60 (in the Y-axis direction), rolling along the upper surface 104, sliding, or otherwise articulating with the electrode assembly 60. For reference, due to the mass or weight of the electrode assembly 60, the top support block 120 inherently maintains a firm frictional contact or engagement with the bottom surface 222 as the electrode assembly 60 is forced forward. In other embodiments, the trolley 102 may be configured to remain stationary relative to the fixing member 100 as the electrode assembly 60 advances (e.g., the top support block 120 may include or carry wheels that contact the bottom surface 222 and rotate as the electrode assembly 60 advances).

[0063] Specific reference Figure 3A The trolley 102 is depicted supporting the electrode assembly 60 in a relationship perpendicular to the sidewall 40a. This perpendicularity can be described as the alignment or flushing of the planes of the bottom surface 222 and the opposing upper surface 224 of the electrode assembly 60 with the corresponding edges of the sidewall opening 70. Optionally or additionally, the principal plane 226 defined by the back surface 82 of the electrode assembly 60 is substantially parallel (i.e., within 5 degrees of true parallelism) to the principal plane 228 defined by the sidewall 40a. Optionally or additionally, the centerline 230 defined by the electrode assembly 60 is substantially horizontal (i.e., within 5 degrees of a truly horizontal configuration) and substantially parallel to the centerline 232 defined by the sidewall opening 70. In cases where the electrode assembly 60 is not considered perpendicular to the sidewall 40a (or for other reasons), the trolley 102 can be operated to vertically raise or lower (i.e., along the Z-axis) the electrode assembly 60 at the back surface 82. For example, the operator can rotate the actuator 196 as described above, causing the wedge-shaped bodies 174a, 174b ( Figure 3A One of them can be seen in the middle) relative to the corresponding upper and lower main bodies 170a / 172a, 170b / 172b ( Figure 3A The first upper and lower main bodies (170a, 172a) can be seen moving. Regarding... Figure 3AThe trolley 102 is configured such that, with the wedge-shaped body 174a moving toward the side panel 190, the lower body 172a remains spatially fixed (the force exerted on the lower body 172a by the wedge-shaped body 174a is resisted by the base 178 via the fixing member 100 and the ground structure, such as the beam 220). As a result, the upper body 170a is forced to move upward, increasing the vertical gap between the upper body 170a and the lower body 172a. The upward force exerted on the upper body 170a by the wedge-shaped body 174a is resisted by the base plate 122 ( Figure 3B The force is transmitted to the electrode assembly 60 via the top support block 120. An upward force applied by the trolley 102 moves the back surface 82 upward, effectively rotating or pivoting the electrode assembly 60 about one or more contact points with the side wall 40a. Conversely, when the actuator 196 is operated to move the wedge-shaped body 174a away from the side panel 190, the upper body 170a is allowed to move vertically toward the lower body 172a (via the force applied by the electrode assembly 60 to the top support block 120), causing the back surface 82 to move downward (effectively rotating or pivoting the electrode assembly 60 about one or more contact points with the side wall 40a). By changing the vertical configuration of the trolley 102 as desired, the electrode assembly 60 can be arranged vertically or horizontally to the side wall 40a.

[0064] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 3B In some embodiments, the trolley 102 may allow or facilitate lateral movement (i.e., along the X-axis) of the electrode assembly 60 relative to the fixture 100. For reference, during the melting operation, the walls of the container 34 (e.g., sidewall 40a) may expand under high heat. In these and other cases, the lateral configuration of the opening 70 in the sidewall 40a relative to the fixture 100 may change over time. Since the electrode assembly 60 is in close contact with the sidewall 40a at the opening 70, the expansion or other “displacement” of the sidewall 40a will act as a lateral force (along the X-axis) applied to the electrode assembly 60. The top support block 120 may move with the electrode assembly 60 and is laterally (in the X-axis direction) hinged between opposing stop elements 160, 162 relative to the base plate 122 (and therefore relative to the fixture 100). If needed, the operator can use the locking mechanism 164 as described above ( Figure 2A and 2B The top support block 120 is locked laterally relative to the base plate 122.

[0065] Drive component 52

[0066] Refer to the return Figure 1 As shown, the actuating assembly 52 can take various forms to allow an operator to advance the electrode assembly 60 relative to the container sidewall 40a. One example of the actuating assembly 300 that can be used in some embodiments of this invention is shown in... Figures 4A-4CThe diagram is illustrated in more detail below, and includes a fixed frame 302, a main body 304, and at least one track, such as tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d. Detailed information on the various components is provided below. Generally, tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d connect the main body 304 to the fixed frame 302 in a manner that facilitates movement of the main body 304 relative to the fixed frame 302 by an operator. With this structure, when the fixed frame 302 is fixed to the container 34 (… Figure 1 ), and the main body 304 is connected to the back side 82 of the electrode assembly 60 ( Figure 1 ) or otherwise connected to electrode assembly 60 ( Figure 1 The back of 82 () Figure 1 When connected, the push component 300 can be operated to apply thrust to the electrode group 60 by the forced movement of the main body 304 along the tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d.

[0067] The fixed frame 302 can take various forms and, in some embodiments, includes at least one side frame, such as first and second side frames 310a, 310b, and one or more crossbeams 312. In some embodiments, the side frames can be identical, such that the following description of the first side frame 310a also applies to the second side frame 310b. The side frame 310a may include a forearm 320, a tail arm 322, and one or more side arms 324. The arms 320, 322, 324 may be formed of a selected rigid material to maintain their structural integrity under the action of expected forces (e.g., stainless steel), and may also form joints or connections (e.g., metal welding) between the arms 320, 322, 324. The forearm 320 and tail arm 322 are configured to receive corresponding rails (e.g., Figure 4A Tracks 306a and 306b in the model), for example, through holes of appropriate size (such as... Figure 4AIn the diagram, one hole for the forearm 320 is marked 326, and the hole for the tail arm 322 is marked 328. The side arm 324 interconnects the forearm 320 and the tail arm 322, and rigidly maintains the lateral spacing (in the Y-axis direction) between the forearm 320 and the tail arm 322. Furthermore, the forearm 320 and the tail arm 322 are configured such that the track receiving features are aligned (e.g., hole 326 in the forearm 320 is aligned with hole 328 in the tail arm 322). Although the side frame 310a is shown as having a quadrilateral-like peripheral shape, other shapes (and therefore the geometry of one or more of the arms 320, 322, 324) are equally acceptable, including both regular and irregular shapes. For example, in some non-limiting embodiments, the length of the forearm 320 (i.e., the dimension in the Z-axis direction) may be greater than the length of the tail arm 322, and the side arms 324 may form one or more curved extensions between the forearm 320 and the tail arm 322 to collectively form a D-shaped peripheral shape (e.g., to reduce the coverage area of ​​the side frame 310a and thus save space). Other geometric or dimensional features of the side frame 310a (e.g., the lateral length (i.e., the dimension in the Y-axis direction) and vertical height (i.e., the dimension in the Z-axis direction) between the forearm 320 and the tail arm 322) may be selected based on other geometric features of the actuating assembly 300 as described below, which in turn may be selected based on the expected dimensions of the electrodes or electrode groups.

[0068] A crossbeam 312 extends between and connects to the side frames 310a and 310b, maintaining the side frames 310a and 310b at a selected lateral spacing (i.e., a dimension along the X-axis). The lateral spacing between the side frames 310a and 310b can be selected based on the expected parameters of the end-use application as described below, for example, compared to the electrode group 60 to which the push assembly 300 will act (…). Figure 1 The expected width is still large. Although Figures 4A-4C The illustration shows that the fixed frame 302 includes three crossbeams 312, but any other number of larger or smaller crossbeams may also be accepted.

[0069] The body 304 can take various shapes and sizes, and is typically configured to create a covering area suitable for simultaneous engagement with each of the tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d. Therefore, the covering area or shape of the body 304 best reflects... Figure 4B In the middle, but Figure 4B This is merely a non-limiting example. The body 304 is formed of a rigid material selected to maintain structural rigidity under the influence of desired forces (e.g., when a thrust is applied to the electrode assembly 60 as described above). Figure 1(and may be, for example, stainless steel). Regardless of the exact shape and structure, the body 304 is configured to movably receive each track 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d, for example via appropriately sized channels (one of which is in Figure 4A and 4C (Ref. 330). In some embodiments, the body 304 may include or carry one or more components at or within each channel 330, facilitating a translational connection between the body 304 and tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d, through which the body 304 can selectively move along tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d. For example, threaded bushings may be disposed within or formed by each channel 330, threadedly engaging with the corresponding tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d. Other coupling configurations are also acceptable.

[0070] The main body 304 can carry one or more components, which are adapted to be attached to the back side of the electrode (such as electrode assembly 60). Figure 1 The back of 82 () Figure 1 Establishing a connection. For example, one or more contact mechanisms 332 may be carried by the body 304, each contact mechanism terminating at a contact surface 334 (identified in the view as one of the contact mechanisms 332). The contact mechanism 332 may take various forms suitable for physically engaging with an electrode or electrode assembly, and in some embodiments may be or include a pressure bolt device. Generally, a pressure bolt device includes an shaft extending from the body 304 and securely holding a head providing the contact surface 334; in some embodiments, the pressure bolt device also provides the user with the ability to selectively change the spacing between the contact surface 334 and the body 304 (and thus adjust or “fine-tune” the applied force as described below). Other configurations of the contact mechanism are also acceptable, and may or may not include a pressure bolt. In other embodiments, the contact mechanism 332 may be omitted, wherein the body 304 is adapted to directly contact the electrode or electrode assembly.

[0071] In some embodiments, tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d may be identical, such that the following description of the first track 306a also applies to the other tracks 306b, 306c, and 306d. Track 306a may take various forms that facilitate articulated engagement with body 304, and in some embodiments may be a guide screw or similar device with an externally threaded surface. Using these and similar embodiments, a threaded engagement can be established between track 306a and body 304 (e.g., via an optional threaded sleeve provided with body 304 as described above). Track 306a is dimensioned to extend between the front arm 320 and the tail arm 322 of the retaining frame 302. In an optional embodiment where the track 306a is a guide screw or similar device with an externally threaded surface, the track 306a can be coupled to the forearm 320 and tail arm 322 in a manner that allows the track 306a to rotate relative to the forearm 320 and tail arm 322 without axial movement (i.e., the track 306a can rotate relative to the forearm 320 and tail arm 322, but will not move in space in at least one direction of the Y-axis). For example, the forearm 320 may define a hole 326 (in... Figure 4A As described above, track 306a extends through hole 326. Fastener unit 338 is connected to track 306a outside forearm 320 and is configured to grip track 306a relative to forearm 320 and allow track 306a to rotate. For example, fastener unit 338 may include a threaded nut and screw with a cotter pin passing through the nut to prevent the nut from retracting on the inside of forearm 320. Other fastener unit configurations are also acceptable. Tail arm 322 may also define hole 328 (in Figure 4A (marked in the middle), the hole 328 is sized to receive the rail 306a. The rail 306a extends through the hole 328 and terminates at the head 340. The head 340 is larger than the diameter (or other external dimension) of the hole 328, such that the rail 306a is axially engaged relative to the tail arm 322. Furthermore, the head 340 may provide a surface that facilitates the user in applying rotational force (e.g., the head 340 may be a hex nut or a similar structure welded to the exterior of the rail 306a). Other forms of connection for mechanically securing the rail 306a relative to the tail arm 306a are also acceptable.

[0072] Although the body 304 and the track 306a have been described as being joined by a threaded engagement that facilitates the axial translation or hinge of the body 304 along the track 306a (i.e., in the direction of the Y-axis), other forms are also acceptable. For example, the track 306a may form or define a series of teeth, wherein the body 304 is configured to advance or retract along the axial direction of the track 306a to a selected incremental position between adjacent teeth.

[0073] During final assembly, the body 304 is connected to tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d, and is laterally positioned between the forearm 320 and the tail arm 322 (i.e., in the Y-axis direction). The actuating assembly 300 is configured such that the body 304 can be translated to different lateral positions (i.e., the body 304 can move in the Y-axis direction). For example, in some embodiments, each of tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d can be rotated such that the body 304 translates along tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d while the stationary frame 302 remains stationary.

[0074] Figure 5A and 5B The illustration shows a push assembly 300 relative to the container 34 and the electrode assembly 60. As described above, the electrode assembly 60 is configured to pass through an opening 70 in the sidewall 40a. Although in Figure 5A Not shown in the view, a support assembly (e.g., the support assembly 50 described above) may be provided to support the electrode assembly 60 externally to the container 34. In any case, as described below, the push assembly 300 is mounted to the container 34 and configured to engage with the back surface 82 of the electrode assembly 60.

[0075] The mounting of the push assembly 300 relative to the container 34 can be achieved in various ways. In some non-limiting embodiments, the fixing frame 302 is mounted to the side wall 40a via one or more brackets 400. Other fastening methods are also acceptable, and the push assembly 300 may alternatively be fixed to a structure separate from the container 34. In any case, during final assembly, the fixing frame 302 is spatially fixed relative to the side wall 40a, with the forearm 320 of each of its side frames 310a, 310b located near (but spaced from) the side wall 40a, and the tail arm 322 located opposite the side wall 40a. As described above, the body 304 is connected to each track 306a, 306b, 306c (it should be understood that, in Figure 5A and 5B The view, while the fourth track 306d ( Figure 4B (The contact mechanism 332 is not visible) and is disposed between the back surface 82 of the electrode assembly 60 and the tail arm 322 of each side frame 310a, 310b. More specifically, the body 304 is laterally positioned (in the Y-axis direction) such that the contact surface 334 of each contact mechanism 332 approaches or contacts the back surface 82. In some embodiments, a minimum length of the tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d will extend or protrude beyond the tail arm 322. Therefore, the push assembly 300 occupies a relatively small space (in the Y-axis direction) at the installation location of the container 34.

[0076] like Figure 5A and 5BAs shown, the geometry or size of various features of the actuating assembly 300 can be selected according to the expected size of the electrode assembly 60. Ideally, as... Figure 5B As shown, the fixing frame 302 can be configured to accommodate the width 402 of the electrode assembly 60, and is specifically used to position the side frames 310a, 310b, thereby laterally (i.e., in the X-axis direction) positioning the tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d they carry beyond the respective sides of the electrode assembly 60. For example, the fixing frame 302 is sized and shaped such that the first track 306a is adjacent but laterally spaced from the first side 404 of the electrode assembly 60, and the third track 306c is adjacent but laterally spaced from the second side 406 of the electrode assembly 60. The body 304 is also sized and shaped according to the same lateral spacing and receives the tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d positioned as described above. Furthermore, the body 304 spatially positions the contact mechanism 332 along its width to engage the back surface 82. Preferably as Figure 5A As shown, the actuating assembly 300 can also be configured according to the height 408 of the electrode assembly 60 to position one of the contact mechanisms 332 across a span of the back surface 82, thereby applying force more evenly across the entire back surface 82. Other geometries or dimensional properties are also acceptable.

[0077] During the melting operation, over time, the front surface 80 of the electrode assembly 60 may corrode or wear, such as Figure 6A and 6B As shown (and a later point in the melting process reflects...) Figure 5A and 5B The structure). In these and other cases, the push assembly 300 can be manually operated to advance the electrode assembly 60 relative to the sidewall 40a (i.e., in the direction of the Y-axis) to reposition the now-worn front surface 80 in the desired position. In some embodiments, for example, the user rotates each of the tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d in the desired direction (it should be understood that track 306d ( Figure 4B )exist Figure 6A and 6B(Not visible in the view), for example, by manually applied rotation or torque at the respective heads 340. Rotation of tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d causes the body 304 to articulate in the lateral direction (i.e., the direction of the Y-axis), and applies thrust to the back 82, for example, via contact mechanism 332. In some embodiments, the heads 340 can rotate simultaneously in the same direction of rotation, so the body 304 can be uniformly pulled towards the forearm 320 (and the sidewall 40a). Because the contact points with the back 82 (e.g., the contact surfaces 334 of each contact mechanism 332) are connected together via the body 304, a relatively uniform force is applied to the back 82. Furthermore, tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, 306d are effectively under tension (rather than under compression) when thrust is applied, and are supported at their opposite ends (by the individual forearms and tail arms 320, 322). Therefore, tracks 306a, 306b, 306c, and 306d are unlikely to bend or be damaged when thrust is applied (and are unlikely to bend or be damaged if under pressure under the same thrust).

[0078] Figure 7A and 7B Each reflects Figure 6A and 6B The configuration occurs after a thrust is applied to the electrode assembly 60. As can be seen by comparing these views, the body 304 advances laterally relative to the mounting frame 302 (i.e., along the Y-axis), applying a thrust to the back surface 82, which in turn causes the electrode assembly 60 to advance relative to the sidewall 40a. The front surface 80 has been repositioned to the desired position relative to the sidewall 40a. In some embodiments, the operator can optionally actuate one or more contact mechanisms 332 (e.g., contact mechanisms 332 are pressure bolt devices, or include pressure bolt devices or similar structures) on an individual basis to slightly adjust or “fine-tune” the position of the corresponding contact surface 334, thus adjusting the force applied to the back surface 82 at said position of the contact surface 334.

[0079] The furnace, electrode joining unit, and method of this invention offer significant improvements over prior designs. The electrode joining unit may include one or both of the support assembly and the push assembly described herein. The optional support assembly can support a large (in size and / or mass) electrode assembly outside the melting vessel in a manner that accommodates lateral movement of the electrode assembly, for example, with the expansion of the corresponding vessel wall. Furthermore, the optional support assembly of this invention is easily operable to change the vertical position or orientation of the electrode assembly and can facilitate lateral movement of the electrode assembly (e.g., in the case of the electrode assembly advancing relative to a corresponding sidewall). The optional push assembly of this invention is well-suited for manually applying a relatively uniform thrust to a large (in size and / or mass) electrode assembly.

[0080] Various modifications and variations may be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Therefore, this specification is intended to cover modifications and variations of the various embodiments described herein, all of which are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A system for melting batches of material, the system comprising: A container, comprising at least one side wall, and defining a melting chamber; An electrode, disposed within the sidewall, includes a front facing the melting chamber, a back facing opposite the front, and a length defined in a transverse direction from the back to the front; and The driving component includes: A fixed frame, which is fixed relative to the container. The main body, wherein the main body is provided with a contact surface that contacts the back side, and A first track, comprising a threaded screw extending through a channel of the body, the external thread of the threaded screw threadably engaging the channel of the body, and the first track rotatably connected to the mounting frame. The rotation of the first track relative to the fixed frame is configured to translate the body relative to the fixed frame and the threaded screw to apply a thrust to the back of the electrode in the lateral direction on the contact surface, while the first track does not substantially move laterally relative to the fixed frame in the lateral direction.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the fixing frame includes a side frame, the side frame including a forearm adjacent to the container and a tail arm opposite to the forearm, and wherein the first track extends between the forearm and the tail arm and is rotatably connected to the forearm and the tail arm.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the main body is disposed between the forearm and the tail arm.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a second track connected to the fixing frame and the body, wherein: The electrode includes a first side opposite to the second side, and a width defined between the first side and the second side; The first track is located adjacent to and spaced apart from the first side; The second track is located adjacent to and spaced apart from the second side; The distance between the first and second tracks is greater than the width.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrodes are configured in an electrode array comprising an electrode group, and wherein the actuating component is operable to move the electrode group relative to the sidewall in the lateral direction.

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