Hose lifter with vent valve and throttle valve

Abstract

The invention relates to a hose lifter with a vent valve (32) and a self-switching throttle valve (34). The invention also relates to an operating device for a hose lifter.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a hose lifter with a lifting hose, a suction gripping device and a ventilation valve for venting the lifting hose.

[0002] Vacuum tube lifters are vacuum handling devices with which loads can be lifted, moved if necessary, and set down again using a vacuum. The lifting force is exerted by means of a lifting hose, which can be shortened by applying a vacuum to its interior and lengthened again by releasing the vacuum. A vacuum tube lifter is known, for example, from DE 10 2021 102 572 A1.

[0003] At one end of the lifting hose, a suction gripping device with at least one suction point for picking up an object is typically arranged. The suction gripping device can be supplied with negative pressure through the interior of the hose of the hose lifter. When the suction point comes into contact with an object to be transported, it creates a seal extending into the interior of the lifting hose, so that the negative pressure acting within the lifting hose shortens the hose and thus lifts the object.

[0004] To prevent the lifting hose from shortening or to extend it again, for example to lower the object, a vent valve is usually provided through which ambient air can be supplied to the inside of the hose, superimposed on the negative pressure. The vent valve is preferably controllable via an operating mechanism of a control device.

[0005] For example, DE 10 2008 028 205 C5 discloses a hose lifter with an operating device, wherein the operating device comprises a handle with a manually operated trigger. The trigger actuates a vent valve, which controls the flow of ambient air into the lifting hose. Specifically, when the trigger is actuated, air from the surrounding environment is supplied to the lifting hose, thereby increasing the pressure inside the hose and allowing it to extend, possibly under the influence of gravity. When the trigger is released, the vent valve closes again, thus interrupting the flow of ambient air into the lifting hose, which then automatically retracts back to its final position.

[0006] Furthermore, a hose lifter with a ventilation valve in the form of a valve flap, which can be controlled by two operating elements, is known from DE 10 2023 102 438 B3. The operating elements are coupled to the valve flap in such a way that the valve flap opens when the first operating element is actuated and closes when the second operating element is actuated. When the valve flap is open, air from the surroundings of the lifting hose flows into the hose interior. When the valve flap is closed, the flow of ambient air into the hose interior is interrupted. In this way, the length of the lifting hose can be reliably and intuitively controlled.

[0007] Depending on the application, the problem can arise with known tube lifters that the suction gripping device and the held load are lowered too quickly if the vent valve is opened too quickly and completely, e.g. by fully actuating a control element.

[0008] To solve this problem, it is known, for example, from DE 2020 181 004 03 U1, to provide an adjustable baffle in a flow path between the ventilation valve and the lifting hose in order to limit the flow cross-section for flows from the ventilation valve to the inside of the hose.

[0009] The invention addresses the problem of further improving the operation of a hose lifter.

[0010] This problem is solved according to the invention by a tube lifter with the features of claim 1. The tube lifter is designed for gripping and handling, in particular lifting and setting down, objects.

[0011] The hose lifter has a lifting hose. The lifting hose has an inner chamber. The lifting hose can be shortened by applying negative pressure to the inner chamber and lengthened again by venting the inner chamber (i.e., by allowing air, especially ambient air, to flow into the inner chamber). The lifting hose can be mounted, for example, on a manipulator, especially a column-mounted jib crane. The lifting hose can also be mounted on a support, such as scaffolding or a building ceiling.

[0012] The hose lifter also features a suction gripping device for grasping an object. The suction gripping device has at least one suction point for drawing in an object. The suction gripping device can be supplied with negative pressure through the interior of the lifting hose. Therefore, the pressure present in the interior of the hose depends in particular on the suction state of the suction gripping device, i.e., whether at least one suction point is occupied (load state) or whether the at least one suction point is unoccupied (free suction). Preferably, the suction gripping device is connected to the interior of the lifting hose via a suction channel. Preferably, the suction gripping device is mounted on the lifting hose, particularly at one end of the lifting hose.

[0013] The hose lifter also features a vent valve for ventilating the interior of the lifting hose. The vent valve is adjustable between a holding position, preferably a closed position, and a venting position, preferably an open position. In the venting position, a vent channel extending between the environment and the interior of the hose is opened, allowing ambient air to flow into the hose interior. In the holding position, this vent channel is closed or substantially closed. Therefore, the vent valve is designed to allow ambient air to flow into the lifting hose connection as needed.

[0014] In addition to the vent valve, the tube lifter has a throttle valve, which is specifically designed separately from the vent valve. The throttle valve is designed to limit the flow cross-section for flows from the vent valve into the tube interior. Specifically, the throttle valve is designed to change the flow resistance for flows from the vent valve into the tube interior. The throttle valve is preferably arranged in a flow path, particularly in the vent channel, between the vent valve and the tube interior. The throttle valve is specifically arranged such that suction flows through the suction gripping device into the tube interior do not pass through the throttle valve.

[0015] The throttle valve has a vacuum side and a vent side, in particular a pressure side. The vacuum side and the vent side are separated from each other, in particular by a housing wall of the throttle valve housing. The vacuum side is fluid-connected to the interior of the hose. Therefore, the pressure present in the interior of the hose, in particular a vacuum, acts on the vacuum side. The vent side is fluid-connected to the vent valve. Therefore, when the vent valve is open, ambient pressure acts on the vent side.

[0016] The throttle valve has at least one valve body. The valve body can assume a throttle position and a free-flow position. In particular, the valve body is adjustable between a throttle position and a free-flow position. Specifically, the valve body is displaceable along a switching axis that runs parallel to a main flow direction. The throttle position and the free-flow position are, in particular, end positions of the valve body along the switching axis. The valve body is, in particular, arranged such that—in the throttle position—the vacuum side of the valve body is located on one side and the ventilation side is located on the other.

[0017] The throttle valve is designed such that, in the throttled position of the valve body, the total flow cross-section for flows through the throttle valve into the hose interior—and thus for flows from the vent valve to the hose interior—is reduced compared to the open position, and in particular is greater than zero. Therefore, the total flow cross-section for flows through the throttle valve is smaller in the throttled position than in the open position. Consequently, in the throttled position, the flow resistance for flows through the throttle valve is greater than in the open position.

[0018] The valve body is designed and arranged such that it is adjustable depending on a pressure difference between the vacuum side and the vent side, in particular between the open-circuit position and the throttled position. In this respect, the valve body is specifically designed such that it is displaced when the pressure difference between the vacuum side and the vent side changes.

[0019] According to a first aspect, the valve body is designed to be adjustable, particularly depending on a pressure difference between the vacuum side and the ventilation side, such that the valve body assumes the flow position when drawing in freely with at least one unoccupied suction point and the throttle position when drawing in with at least one occupied suction point.

[0020] According to a second aspect, the valve body is designed to be adjustable, particularly depending on a pressure difference between the vacuum side and the vent side, such that the valve body assumes the open-flow position when a limit pressure difference is undershot and the throttle position when the limit pressure difference is exceeded. In particular, the limit pressure difference is selected such that it is exceeded during intake with at least one occupied suction point (load condition) and is undershot during free intake with at least one unoccupied suction point.

[0021] According to a third aspect, the valve body is actuated in the direction of the open-flow position. Preferably, the valve body and the actuating force on the valve body in the direction of the open-flow position are designed and coordinated such that, starting from the open-flow position, the valve body is only moved into the throttled position when a limit pressure difference between the vacuum side and the vent side is exceeded, and, in particular, when the limit pressure difference is no longer exceeded, it is moved back into the open-flow position by the actuating force when the limit pressure difference is no longer exceeded. Specifically, the limit pressure difference is selected such that it is exceeded when drawing in air with at least one occupied suction point (load condition) and is not exceeded when drawing in air freely with at least one unoccupied suction point.In this respect, the valve body and the actuation of the valve body towards the flow position can be designed and coordinated in such a way that, starting from the flow position, the valve body is moved into the throttle position when drawing in air with at least one occupied suction point, and starting from the throttle position, when drawing in air freely with at least one unoccupied suction point, the actuation moves the valve body from the throttle position into the flow position.

[0022] The proposed tube lifters allow the flow cross-section for an aeration flow to ventilate the tube's interior to be automatically adjusted depending on whether an object is being drawn into the suction gripping device or not. Specifically, a comparatively small flow cross-section is provided under load (i.e., when at least one suction point is occupied), and a larger flow cross-section is provided when suction is unobstructed (i.e., when no object is drawn in). Under load, the inflow of ambient air through the vent valve into the tube's interior is thus restricted.In this way, it can be taken into account that under load, the suctioned object exerts a greater gravitational force on the lifting hose than during free suction – which, with an unrestricted flow of ambient air into the hose interior, leads to a faster, possibly too rapid, lowering of the lifting hose. The throttle valve according to the invention compensates for this additional load by reducing the flow cross-section for ambient air and thus increasing flow resistance. This prevents excessively rapid lowering under load, while still allowing the hose lifter to maintain rapid maneuverability during free suction, which is not possible, for example, with fixed orifice plates. Because the throttle valve switches automatically depending on the load condition of the suction gripping device, particularly convenient and intuitive operation is enabled.In particular, it is not necessary for an operator to manually change the position of the throttle valve depending on the load condition.

[0023] In the present context, the term "occupied suction point" means in particular that an object is in contact with the suction point and is being sucked in.

[0024] The suction gripper can be designed in various ways. For example, it can have one or more elastomer suction cups. In this case, a suction point of the suction gripper can be provided by an inlet opening of an elastomer suction cup. The suction gripper can also be designed as a surface suction gripper with multiple suction points. For example, it is conceivable that the suction gripper could be designed as a surface suction gripper with multiple suction cups. In this case, each suction cup could provide a suction point for picking up an object.

[0025] The at least one valve body can be designed differently. The valve body can include a sealing element. Advantageously, the valve body can be designed as a valve disc. The valve body can therefore be disc-shaped. The valve disc can preferably be arranged such that one plane of the disc is oriented orthogonally to a main flow direction. In this respect, the valve disc can be designed such that it extends over a plane orthogonal to the main flow direction.

[0026] A ventilation flow passing through the vent valve can be directed entirely through the throttle valve. It is also conceivable that only a portion of the ventilation flow is directed through the throttle valve, while the remainder bypasses the throttle valve and enters the hose interior.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment, the throttle valve is arranged in a flow path between the vent valve and the hose interior, wherein the suction gripping device is connected to the hose interior via a suction channel in such a way that a suction flow is directed through the suction gripping device past the throttle valve into the hose interior.

[0028] The hose lifter can optionally include a vacuum generation device to create a vacuum inside the lifting hose. The vacuum generation device can be designed in various ways. For example, it can include a blower.

[0029] The optional actuation of the valve body can be gravity-driven. In this respect, the valve body can be designed such that it is actuated in the direction of the open position by gravity, and is in the open position, particularly when there is no vacuum. Alternatively or additionally, the throttle valve can have a spring assembly designed to actuate the valve body in the direction of the open position. In this respect, the valve body can be spring-loaded into the open position. The spring assembly can, in particular, comprise one or more compression springs.

[0030] Preferably, the limiting pressure difference is greater than 160 mbar, particularly greater than 170 mbar, and preferably at least 180 mbar. These values ​​have proven to be particularly advantageous for reliable switching of the throttle valve.

[0031] Preferably, the total flow cross-section in the throttled position is a maximum of 30%, particularly a maximum of 20%, further particularly a maximum of 10%, and further particularly a maximum of 5%, of the total flow cross-section in the open position. In this respect, the total flow cross-section in the throttled position is reduced by at least 70%, particularly at least 80%, further particularly at least 90%, and further particularly at least 95%, compared to the total flow cross-section in the open position. These ranges have proven to be particularly advantageous with regard to the effects mentioned above (reduction of the lowering velocity under load while maintaining a high lowering velocity during free intake).

[0032] The throttle valve preferably has a main flow cross-section, in particular a main flow opening, which can be changed—in particular closed and opened—by moving the valve body between the open position and the throttle position. The main flow cross-section thus represents a variable part of the total flow cross-section. In particular, the main flow cross-section is completely open in the open position of the valve body and closed, or substantially closed, in the throttle position of the valve body. In the throttle position, the main flow cross-section does not contribute to the total flow cross-section of the throttle valve.

[0033] Preferably, in addition to the main flow cross-section, the throttle valve has a bypass flow cross-section (also called an auxiliary flow cross-section). The bypass flow cross-section is designed such that air can be directed through it past the main flow cross-section and into the interior of the hose. The bypass flow cross-section is preferably open in both the open and closed positions of the valve body. In this respect, the bypass flow cross-section is open regardless of the position of the valve body. The bypass flow cross-section thus represents a fixed portion of the total flow cross-section. Such a design with a bypass flow cross-section makes it possible to provide a certain flow cross-section even when the throttle valve is closed (valve body in the closed position).The bypass flow cross-section is dimensioned in such a way that, during operation with the ventilation valve open, there is no complete pressure equalization between the hose interior and the valve chamber.

[0034] In one advantageous embodiment, the throttle valve comprises a valve housing. The valve housing, in particular, defines a valve chamber. The valve chamber can be an interior space of the valve housing. The valve body is preferably arranged within the valve chamber. In particular, the valve body can be slidably guided within the valve chamber between the open-circuit position and the throttled position.

[0035] In a configuration with a valve housing, the valve chamber is preferably flow-connected to the vent valve. The valve chamber can thus form the vent side. The area surrounding the valve housing is preferably flow-connected to the interior of the hose. This area surrounding the valve housing can therefore form the vacuum side. Consequently, the vacuum side and the vent side can be separated from each other by a housing wall of the valve housing.

[0036] In a design with a valve housing, the valve body can be adjustable depending on a pressure difference between the valve chamber and an environment of the valve housing, in particular the inside of the hose.

[0037] Preferably, at least one main flow opening is formed in the valve housing. This at least one main flow opening provides, in particular, the main flow cross-section described above. The main flow opening is closed, preferably by the valve body itself, in the throttled position and open in the open position. In the open position, the valve chamber is thus connected to the interior of the hose via the main flow opening.

[0038] In this respect, the vacuum side and the ventilation side are separated from each other, in particular by a housing wall of the valve housing, wherein at least one main flow opening is formed in the housing wall, wherein the valve body closes the main flow opening in the throttle position and releases the main flow opening in the open position.

[0039] Preferably, in the throttled position, the valve body interacts with a valve seat to seal the at least one main flow port. The valve seat can be formed by a wall section of the valve housing surrounding the main flow port. The valve seat (housing) and / or the valve body can additionally include a sealing element.

[0040] In particular, the valve body extends along a main flow direction for flows through the main flow opening, wherein the valve body is adjustable parallel to a main flow direction.

[0041] Furthermore, it proves advantageous if, in addition to the at least one main flow opening, a bypass opening (or auxiliary opening) is formed in the valve housing. The bypass opening forms, in particular, the bypass flow cross-section described above. The bypass opening is preferably designed such that air can enter the hose interior from the valve chamber through the bypass opening, bypassing the main flow opening. The bypass opening is, in particular, open in both the throttled and the open position of the valve body. The valve chamber can thus be connected to the surroundings of the valve housing, especially the hose interior, in both the throttled and open positions. The bypass opening is, in particular, dimensioned such that, during operation with the vent valve open, complete pressure equalization between the hose interior and the valve chamber does not occur.

[0042] It is conceivable that the total flow cross-section in the open position and the total flow cross-section in the throttled position are each fixed. It is also conceivable that the total flow cross-section in the open position and the total flow cross-section in the throttled position are variable.

[0043] In a further advantageous embodiment, the throttle valve can have an adjustment device for setting the total flow cross-section of the throttle valve (both in the open and closed positions). Such a design makes it possible to adapt the ventilation flow to the weight of an object being lifted and thus to keep the lowering speed of the lifting hose essentially constant even with objects of different weights (and thus different gravitational forces acting upon them).

[0044] The adjustment device can act on both the bypass flow cross-section and the main flow cross-section. Preferably, the adjustment device comprises at least one bypass adjustment device for adjusting the bypass flow cross-section, in particular the opening cross-section of the bypass opening. In this respect, the adjustment device can be configured to change the bypass flow cross-section, in particular the opening cross-section of the bypass opening. One exemplary implementation provides for an adjustable orifice plate, in particular manually or by motor, which is configured to change the opening cross-section of the bypass opening.

[0045] The adjusting device can, in addition to or as an alternative to the bypass adjusting device, also be configured to change the position of the valve body in the open position. In particular, the adjusting device can be configured to adjust a distance between the valve body and the valve housing, or between the valve body and the housing wall of the valve housing in which the at least one main flow opening is formed. In other words, the adjusting device can also be configured to change a ventilation gap between the valve body and the valve housing in the open position.

[0046] One exemplary implementation involves defining the valve body's opening position by a stop that limits its movement. In such a configuration, the adjustment device can then be designed to change the position of this stop. It is also conceivable that the valve body is mounted on a support, such as a screw, and thus its movement is coupled. In such a configuration, the adjustment device can be implemented, for example, by allowing the valve body to be positioned differently on the support, i.e., by enabling the relative position of the valve body and the support to be set.

[0047] Preferably, the hose lifter has an operating mechanism for actuating the vent valve. The operating mechanism can be designed in various ways. In one advantageous embodiment, the operating mechanism can have a first operating element and a second operating element. The first operating element is adjustable, in particular, along a first actuation direction. The second operating element is adjustable, in particular, along a second actuation direction. The operating mechanism can, in particular, have a coupling device by which the two operating elements are mechanically coupled to the vent valve, in particular such that adjusting the first operating element in the first actuation direction opens the vent valve, and adjusting the second operating element in the second actuation direction closes the vent valve. This allows for particularly intuitive operation.

[0048] In particular, the ventilation valve has a valve mechanism that is adjustable between a closed position and an open position. In a configuration with an operating mechanism, the operating elements can then be mechanically coupled to the valve mechanism via the coupling device in such a way that adjusting the first operating element in the first direction of actuation moves the valve mechanism towards the open position, and adjusting the second operating element in the second direction of actuation moves the valve mechanism towards the closed position.

[0049] The ventilation valve, especially the valve mechanism, can be designed differently.

[0050] In a first exemplary embodiment, the ventilation valve can have a valve housing, in particular a disc-shaped one, which has at least one first opening that is fluidically connected to the throttle valve and at least one second opening that is fluidically connected to the surroundings / atmosphere. The valve mechanism can then, in particular, comprise a ventilation valve body that is rotatably mounted about a valve body axis of rotation and has at least one radial through-opening, e.g., in the form of a bore. Preferably, the ventilation valve body is designed as a drum or roller.The ventilation valve body is arranged in a flow path between the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening such that the ventilation valve body assumes a closed position in a first rotational position about the valve body's axis of rotation, in which a flow connection between the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening is blocked by the ventilation valve body, and assumes an open position in a second rotational position about the valve body's axis of rotation, in which a flow connection between the at least one first opening and the at least one second opening is established through the at least one through-opening.

[0051] In a second exemplary implementation of the ventilation valve, the valve mechanism can have a valve flap that is adjustable between an open and a closed position. With an operating mechanism featuring a first and second control element, the control elements can then be mechanically coupled to the valve flap via the coupling device in such a way that the opening angle of the valve flap can be adjusted by actuating the first and / or the second control element.

[0052] In a third exemplary implementation, the valve mechanism can have one or more valve pistons that are adjustable along a switching direction between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the at least one valve piston can interact with a valve seat to interrupt the flow connection between the inside of the hose and the surrounding environment / atmosphere. In an operating mechanism with a first and second operating element, the operating elements can then be mechanically coupled to the valve piston, or at least one of the valve pistons, via the coupling device such that the at least one valve piston is moved towards the closed position by actuating one operating element and towards the open position by actuating the other operating element.

[0053] As a general advantage, the hose lifter can have an operating device for operating the hose lifter. The operating device is preferably arranged on the lifting hose, particularly at a free end of the lifting hose. The suction gripping device is then preferably held on the operating device and, in particular, supplied with negative pressure through the operating device, i.e., connected to the interior of the lifting hose via the operating device. In this respect, the operating device is preferably arranged between the lifting hose and the suction gripping device.

[0054] In an embodiment with an operating device, the ventilation valve and the throttle valve are preferably arranged on the operating device. In particular, the operating device has a housing. The ventilation valve and the throttle valve can then be arranged in the housing.

[0055] The operating device features, in particular, a lifting hose connection which is fluidically connected to the hose interior. In such a configuration, the vent valve can then be designed to allow ambient air to flow into the lifting hose connection (and thus into the hose interior). The negative pressure side of the throttle valve can then be formed, in particular, by the lifting hose connection of the operating device. Specifically, the throttle valve can be arranged in a fluid volume limited by the lifting hose connection.

[0056] The optional operating mechanism is preferably also arranged on the operating device. In particular, the operating device has a handle, preferably one that can be gripped with one hand. The handle can, for example, be formed by a housing section of the housing. In this case, it can be advantageous if the first and second operating elements are arranged on the handle.

[0057] The operating device preferably also includes a suction gripper coupling for connecting the suction gripper to the operating device. The suction gripper coupling is preferably arranged on a side of the operating device opposite the lifting hose connection. The suction gripper coupling can, for example, be designed as described in DE 10 2023 102 439.6, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0058] In a further advantageous embodiment, the suction gripper coupling has a suction port for flow connection with the suction gripper device. It can then be advantageous if the lifting hose connection and the suction port are flow-connected to each other via a fluid guide (suction channel), particularly in the form of a hose or suction tube. The operating device can thus have a flow connection between the suction port and the lifting hose connection. Such a design makes it possible to supply the suction gripper device with negative pressure through the lifting hose and the operating device. For example, the fluid guide (suction channel) can be formed in a housing of the operating device, particularly in a housing section extending between the suction port and the lifting hose connection.

[0059] According to another aspect of the disclosure, an operating device for a hose lifter is proposed, comprising: - (optional) a handle, especially one that can be gripped with one hand, - a lifting hose connection for flow connection with a hose interior of a lifting hose; - (optional) a suction gripper coupling, in particular opposite the lifting hose connection, for coupling a suction gripper device to the operating device; - a ventilation valve for venting the lifting hose connection, - (optional) an operating mechanism for activating the ventilation valve; - a throttle valve for limiting a flow cross-section for flows from the vent valve to the lift hose connection, wherein the throttle valve has a vacuum side connected to the lift hose connection and a ventilation side connected to the vent valve, wherein the throttle valve has at least one valve body which is adjustable between a throttle position and a flow-through position, wherein in the throttle position a total flow cross-section for flows through the throttle valve is reduced compared to the flow-through position, wherein the valve body is designed to be adjustable depending on a pressure difference between the vacuum side and the ventilation side such that the valve body assumes the flow-through position when a limit pressure difference is undershot and assumes the throttle position when the limit pressure difference is exceeded.

[0060] The advantages and optional features described above in connection with the tube lifter can also be used to design the operating device, so reference is made to the above disclosure to avoid repetition.

[0061] According to another aspect of the revelation, a hose lifter is proposed, comprehensive - a lifting hose which has an inner tube and can be shortened by applying negative pressure to the inner tube; - a suction gripping device with at least one suction point for suctioning an object, wherein the suction gripping device can be supplied with negative pressure through the interior of the lifting hose, so that a negative pressure prevailing in the interior of the hose is influenced by whether an object is suctioned at the at least one suction point; - a ventilation valve for ventilating the inside of the hose; - a throttle valve for limiting a flow cross-section for flows from the vent valve to the hose interior, wherein the throttle valve has a throttle configuration and a flow-through configuration, wherein in the throttle configuration a total flow cross-section for flows through the throttle valve into the hose interior - and thus a flow resistance for flows from the vent valve to the hose interior - is reduced compared to the flow-through configuration, in particular being greater than zero, and wherein the throttle valve is configured such that the throttle valve assumes the flow-through configuration when drawing in freely with at least one unoccupied suction point and assumes the throttle configuration when drawing in with at least one occupied suction point.

[0062] The advantages and optional features described above can also be used to design this tube lifter, so reference is made to the preceding disclosure to avoid repetition.

[0063] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. They show: Fig. 1 a sketched representation of a design of a hose lifter; Fig. 2 Simplified schematic representation to explain the function of the ventilation valve and the throttle valve when the throttle valve is in the throttle position; Fig. 3 the representation according to Fig. 2 with throttle valve in open position; Fig. 4 a sketched representation of the operating device of the hose lifter according to Fig. 1 in a perspective view; Fig. 5 a sketched representation of an exemplary implementation of the throttle valve in a perspective view; and Fig. 6 the operating device according to Fig. 4 in a sectional view.

[0064] In the following description and in the figures, the same reference symbols are used for identical or corresponding features.

[0065] The Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a hose lifter, which is designated in its entirety by reference numeral 10. The hose lifter 10 comprises a lifting hose 12, which contains a hose interior 14 (see Figure 1). Fig. 2) encloses.

[0066] The lifting hose 12 can be shortened by applying negative pressure to the inside of the hose 14 and lengthened again by venting the inside of the hose 14. In other words, the lifting hose 12 shortens or lengthens reversibly depending on the pressure level in the inside of the hose 14, e.g., under the influence of gravity.

[0067] For this purpose, the hose lifter 10 can have a vacuum generating device (not shown), e.g. a blower, which is fluid-connected to the hose interior 14 of the lifting hose 12.

[0068] In this example, the lifting hose 12 is held at a first (upper) end 16 on a manipulator 18, e.g., in the form of a column-mounted jib crane, and can thus be moved by the manipulator 18. In embodiments not shown, the lifting hose 12 can also be held on a support, e.g., a scaffold or a building ceiling.

[0069] The hose lifter 10 also has an operating device 20 (explained in detail below). The operating device 20 is mounted at the second (lower) end 22 of the lifting hose 12.

[0070] The tube lifter 10 also has a suction gripping device 24 for gripping an object (not shown). The suction gripping device 24 has at least one suction point 26 for drawing in the object.

[0071] The suction gripping device 24 is held on the operating device 20 via a suction gripper coupling 28 formed on the operating device 20 and is thus connected to the lifting hose 12. By shortening the lifting hose 12, the suction gripping device 24, and thus an object gripped by it, can be lifted.

[0072] The suction gripping device 24 can be supplied with negative pressure through the inner tube 14 of the lifting hose 12, so that the negative pressure prevailing in the inner tube 14 is influenced by whether an object is being suctioned by the suction gripping device 24 (load state) or not (free suction). For example, the suction gripping device 24 is connected to the inner tube 14 via a suction channel 30 (in Fig. Figure 2 is shown schematically for illustrative purposes only; see also... Fig. 6).

[0073] The hose lifter 10 also has a ventilation valve 32 for ventilating the hose interior 14 of the lifting hose 12 (see Fig. 2).

[0074] The tube lifter 10 also has a throttle valve 34 for limiting a flow cross-section for flows from the vent valve 32 to the tube interior 14 (see Fig. 2) The throttle valve 34 is arranged in a flow path between the ventilation valve 32 and the hose interior 14.

[0075] The operation of the ventilation valve 32 and the throttle valve 34 is described below with reference to the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 explained in more detail.

[0076] The ventilation valve 32 is designed to allow an airflow between a ventilation port 36 (in Fig. 2 (shown only schematically), in particular the ventilation opening, and the ventilation channel 38 extending into the inner space of the hose 14, to be optionally opened or closed.

[0077] The ventilation valve 32 has a valve mechanism 40 which is adjustable between a closed position (ventilation channel 38 closed) and an open position (ventilation channel 38 released). Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows the ventilation valve 32 in the open position.

[0078] For example, the ventilation valve has two valve pistons 42, which interact with a respective ventilation opening 44. The valve pistons 42 are positioned between an open position (see below). Fig. 2 and Fig. 3) and adjustable to a closed position (not shown).

[0079] In the closed position, the valve pistons 42 interact with their respective valve seats 46, thus closing the ventilation openings 44. In the closed position, the flow path from the ventilation port 36 to the hose interior 14 is therefore interrupted.

[0080] In the open position, the valve pistons 42 are lifted from the valve seat 46, allowing air to flow through the ventilation openings 44.

[0081] As explained in more detail below, the hose lifter 10 has an operating mechanism 48, particularly on the operating device 18 (in Fig. 2 (only schematically indicated) for actuating the ventilation valve 32.

[0082] The illustrated configuration of the ventilation valve 32 is merely an example. In configurations not shown, for example, more or fewer valve pistons 42 may be provided. As mentioned above, it is also conceivable, for example, that the ventilation valve 32 does not have any valve pistons, but rather a valve flap or a valve piston in the form of a roller or drum.

[0083] In this example, the throttle valve 34 has a valve housing 50. The valve housing 50 defines a valve chamber 52.

[0084] Valve chamber 52 is fluidically connected to the ventilation valve 32. Valve chamber 52 thus forms a ventilation side 54 of the throttle valve 34.

[0085] In the example shown, this is achieved by forming the ventilation openings 44 in the valve housing 50 of the throttle valve 34 itself. However, in embodiments not shown, it is also conceivable that the ventilation valve 32 and the throttle valve 34 are spatially separated from each other and connected to each other via a fluid channel.

[0086] The area 56 surrounding the valve housing 50 is fluidically connected to the hose interior 14 and thus forms a vacuum side 58 of the throttle valve 34. In the illustrated example, this is achieved by arranging the valve housing 50, at least partially, within the hose interior 14, in particular within a lifting hose connection 86 of the operating device 20 (see below). In embodiments not shown, however, it is also conceivable that the throttle valve 34 and the hose interior 14 are spatially separated from each other and fluidically connected via a fluid channel.

[0087] The valve housing 50 has at least one, or in this example two, main flow openings 60, through which the valve chamber 52 can be connected to the hose interior 14. The main flow openings 60 form a main flow cross-section 62 of the throttle valve 34 for flows from the vent valve 32 to the hose interior 14.

[0088] A valve body 64 is arranged in the valve chamber 52. The valve body 64 is positioned between a throttle position (see Fig. 3) and a passage position (see Fig. 2) adjustable along a switching direction 66. The switching direction 66 is, by way of example and preferably, parallel to a main flow direction through the main flow openings 60.

[0089] In the throttle position (cf. Fig. 3) The valve body 64 interacts with a valve seat 68 to close the main flow openings 60. In the throttled position, a flow path through the main flow openings 60 is therefore blocked.

[0090] In the through position (cf. Fig. 2) The valve body 64 is lifted from the valve seat 68, so that the main flow openings 60 are released and air can thus flow through the main flow openings 60 from the valve chamber 52 into the hose interior 14 (an exemplary flow path is shown in Fig. 2 represented by the dashed line designated with reference numeral 70).

[0091] The valve body 64 is actuated in the direction of the open position. In this example, this is achieved by a spring device 72, which pushes the valve body 64 in the direction of the open position (in this example, against the switching direction 66). Alternatively, the actuation can also be provided solely by the weight of the valve body 64.

[0092] In this example, the valve body 64 is plate-shaped. However, in embodiments not shown, the valve body 64 can also have other shapes. It is also conceivable that more valve bodies 64 are provided. It is also conceivable that more or fewer main flow openings 60 are provided.

[0093] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, in addition to the main flow openings 60, at least one bypass opening 72 is formed in the valve housing 50, through which the valve chamber 52 is connected to the hose interior 14 – bypassing the main flow openings 60. This single bypass opening 72 forms a bypass flow cross-section 74 of the throttle valve 34.

[0094] The bypass opening 72 is arranged such that it is open both in the throttle position of the valve body 64 and in the flow position of the valve body 64.

[0095] As mentioned above, the throttle valve 34 preferably has an adjustment device 76 for adjusting the overall flow cross-section of the throttle valve 34. In the example, the adjustment device comprises a bypass adjustment device 77 for adjusting the opening cross-section of the bypass orifice 72. The bypass adjustment device 77 is, for example, designed as a stop orifice 78, which is adjustable along an adjustment axis 80 (see also Fig. 5).

[0096] As mentioned above, the negative pressure prevailing in the interior of the hose 14 depends on whether or not an object is being drawn in at the at least one suction point 26. When a suction point 26 is occupied, a seal is created, thus increasing the negative pressure in the interior of the hose 14. Conversely, when suction is unobstructed, leakage air – superimposed on a suction force in the direction of negative pressure generation – flows through the suction gripping device 24 and the suction channel 30 into the interior of the hose 14, so that the negative pressure prevailing in the interior of the hose 14 is lower compared to the load condition when a suction point 26 is occupied.

[0097] Therefore, under load conditions, the pressure difference between the vacuum side 58 / hose interior 14 and the ventilation side 54 / valve chamber 52 is higher than under free suction.

[0098] As described above, the valve body 64 and the actuation / spring device 72 are designed and coordinated such that, during free suction (small pressure difference between vacuum side 58 / hose interior 14 and ventilation side 54 / valve chamber 52), the valve body 64 is held in the open position by the actuation and only under load conditions with at least one occupied suction point 26 (larger pressure difference between vacuum side 58 / hose interior 14 and ventilation side 54 / valve chamber 52) is it moved from the open position to the throttle position by the pressure difference - contrary to the actuation.

[0099] An exemplary embodiment of the operating device 20 comprising a ventilation valve 32 as described above and a throttle valve 34 is described below with reference to the Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6 explained in more detail.

[0100] The operating device 20 has an operating handle 82 (handle), which is shaped in such a way that an operator can grip it with one hand. Therefore, the operating device 20 is in particular a one-handed operating device.

[0101] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the operating handle 82 is formed by way of example and preferably by a housing section of a housing 84 of the operating device 20.

[0102] The operating device 20 also includes a lifting hose connection 86 for flow connection with the hose interior 14 of the lifting hose 12 (see Fig. 4) The lifting hose connection 86 can in particular be part of a lifting hose coupling, which also includes a connecting device for the mechanical connection of the operating device 20 to the lifting hose 12.

[0103] The operating device 20 has the aforementioned suction gripper coupling 28 on a side opposite the lifting hose connection 86 for coupling the suction gripper device 24 (see Fig. 4) In the example, the suction gripper coupling 28 includes a suction port 22 for flow connection with the suction gripper device 24. As shown from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, the suction port 88 is connected to the lifting hose port 86 via the aforementioned pipe-like suction channel 30 and can thus be supplied with negative pressure through the hose interior 14 (see Figure 6). Fig. 6, Suction flow 87).

[0104] In the example shown, the ventilation valve 32 described above is also arranged in the operating device 20 (in Fig. (6 only partially visible). The vent valve 32 is arranged, in particular, inside the housing 84 of the operating device 32. The vent valve 32 is designed to vent the lifting hose connection 86 and thus the hose interior 14 of the lifting hose 12.

[0105] Specifically, the ventilation valve 32 is designed to selectively open or close a ventilation channel extending between the lifting hose connection 86 and a ventilation connection 36, in particular a ventilation opening. The ventilation connection 36 is formed, for example, by corresponding openings or penetrations in the housing 84 (see figure). Fig. 6).

[0106] An operating mechanism 48 is provided for actuating the ventilation valve 32, which in this example comprises a first operating element 90 and a second operating element 92. The operating mechanism 48 also includes a coupling device 94, via which an actuating movement of the operating elements 90, 92 is transmitted to the valve mechanism 40 of the ventilation valve 32.

[0107] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the first control element 90 and the second control element 92 are arranged by way of example and preferably next to each other on the same side of the control handle 82.

[0108] As mentioned above, the first control element 90 and the second control element 92 are mechanically coupled via the coupling device 94 to the valve mechanism 40, in particular valve piston 42, of the ventilation valve 32 such that when the first control element 90 is actuated, the valve pistons 42 are moved into the open position and when the second control element 92 is actuated, they are moved into the closed position.

[0109] The throttle valve 34 is arranged, by way of example, in a volume 96 bounded by the lifting hose connection 86 and is thus fluidically connected to the hose interior 14. As mentioned above, the throttle valve 34 is fluidically connected to the vent valve 32. The operation of the throttle valve 34 according to the Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6 is analogous to the operation of the throttle valve 34 according to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, so a further description is omitted here. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2021 102 572 A1

[0002] DE 10 2008 028 205 C5

[0005] DE 10 2023 102 438 B3

[0006] DE 2020 181 004 03 U1

[0008] DE 10 2023 102 439.6

[0057]

Claims

[1] Tube lifter (10), comprising: - a lifting hose (12) which has a hose interior (14) and can be shortened by applying negative pressure to the hose interior (14); - a suction gripping device (24) with at least one suction point (26) for suctioning an object, wherein the suction gripping device (24) can be supplied with negative pressure through the inner tube (14) of the lifting hose (12), so that a pressure prevailing in the inner tube (14) is influenced by whether an object is suctioned at the at least one suction point (26) or not; - a ventilation valve (32) for ventilating the hose interior (14); - a throttle valve (34) for limiting a flow cross-section for flows from the vent valve (32) to the hose interior (14), wherein the throttle valve (34) has a negative pressure side (58) flow-connected to the hose interior (14) and a vent side (54) flow-connected to the vent valve (32), wherein the throttle valve (34) has at least one valve body (64) which is adjustable between a throttle position and a flow-through position, wherein in the throttle position a total flow cross-section for flows through the throttle valve (34) is reduced compared to the flow-through position; characterized by, that the valve body (64) is designed to be adjustable depending on a pressure difference between the vacuum side (58) and the ventilation side (54) such that the valve body (64) assumes the flow position when drawing in freely with at least one unoccupied suction point (26) and assumes the throttle position when drawing in with at least one occupied suction point (26). [2] Hose lifter (10) according to claim 1, wherein the valve body (64) is actuated in the direction of the flow position, in particular by means of a spring device (72), wherein the valve body (64) and the actuating of the valve body (64) in the direction of the flow position are designed and coordinated such that, starting from the flow position, the valve body (64) is only transferred to the throttle position when a limit pressure difference between the vacuum side (58) and the ventilation side (54) is exceeded, and, starting from the throttle position, is transferred back from the throttle position to the flow position by the actuating when the limit pressure difference is not exceeded. [3] Tube lifter (10) according to the previous claim, wherein the limit pressure difference is selected such that the limit pressure difference is exceeded when suction is performed with at least one occupied suction point (26) and is not exceeded when suction is performed with at least one unoccupied suction point (26). [4] Tube lifter (10) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the limit pressure difference is at least 160 mbar, in particular at least 180 mbar. [5] Tube lifter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the total flow cross-section of the throttle valve (34) in the throttle position of the valve body (64) is a maximum of 30%, in particular a maximum of 20%, further in particular a maximum of 10%, further in particular a maximum of 5%, of the total flow cross-section in the open position of the valve body (64). [6] Tube lifter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the throttle valve (34) is arranged in a flow path between the vent valve (32) and the tube interior (14), wherein the suction gripping device (24) is connected to the tube interior (14) via a suction channel (30) in such a way that a suction flow (87) is directed through the suction gripping device (24) past the throttle valve (34) into the tube interior (14). [7] Hose lifter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the throttle valve (34) has a main flow cross-section (62) which can be changed by moving the valve body (64) between the open position and the throttle position, in particular being open in the open position of the valve body (64) and closed in the throttle position of the valve body (64). [8] Tube lifter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the throttle valve (34) has a bypass flow cross-section (74) which is open both in the flow position of the valve body (64) and in the throttle position of the valve body (64). [9] Hose lifter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the throttle valve (32) has a valve housing (50) which defines a valve chamber (52), wherein the valve body (64) is arranged in the valve chamber (52). [10] Hose lifter (10) according to the previous claim, wherein the valve chamber (52) is fluid-connected to the vent valve (34) and thus forms the vent side (54) of the throttle valve (32), wherein an environment (56) of the valve housing (50) is fluid-connected to the hose interior (14) and thus forms the vacuum side (58) of the throttle valve (34). [11] Tube lifter (10) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the valve housing (50) has at least one main flow opening (60) which is closed in the throttle position of the valve body (64) and open in the flow position of the valve body (64), and wherein the valve housing (50) has a bypass opening (72) through which the valve chamber (52) is connected to the hose interior (14) by flow, wherein the bypass opening (72) is open in both the throttle position and the flow position of the valve body (64). [12] Hose lifter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the throttle valve (34) has an adjustment device (76) for adjusting the total flow cross-section of the throttle valve (34). [13] Tube lifter (10) according to the previous claim, wherein the adjusting device (76) has a bypass adjusting device (77) for adjusting a flow cross-section of the bypass flow cross-section (74). [14] Tube lifter (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tube lifter (10) has an operating device (20) for operating the tube lifter (10), wherein the operating device (20) is arranged between the lifting tube (12) and the suction gripping device (24), wherein the vent valve (32) and the throttle valve (34) are arranged on the operating device (20), in particular in a housing (84) of the operating device (20). [15] Operating device (20) for a hose lifter (10), comprising: - a lifting hose connection (86) for flow connection with a hose interior (14) of a lifting hose (12); - a ventilation valve (32) for venting the lifting hose connection (86), - a throttle valve (34) for limiting a flow cross-section for flows from the vent valve (32) to the lift hose connection (86), wherein the throttle valve (34) has a vacuum side (58) flow-connected to the lift hose connection (86) and a ventilation side (54) flow-connected to the vent valve (32), wherein the throttle valve (34) has at least one valve body (64) which is adjustable between a throttle position and a flow-through position, wherein in the throttle position a total flow cross-section for flows through the throttle valve (34) is reduced compared to the flow-through position, wherein the valve body (64) is designed to be adjustable depending on a pressure difference between the vacuum side (58) and the ventilation side (54),that the valve body (64) assumes the open position when a limit pressure difference is undershot and assumes the throttle position when the limit pressure difference is exceeded.

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