Tank cleaner with stacking arrangement

Abstract

The invention relates to a tank cleaner (1) comprising a static body (3) with an upper housing part (31) for coupling to a supply line (6) and a lower housing part (32), a rotating body (4) mounted on the static body (3), a gear assembly (10) with a main input shaft (120) and a main output shaft (130) extending beyond the housing (30) and configured to drive the rotating body (4) about the main axis of rotation (R1), and a drive assembly (7) coupled to the main input shaft (120) for driving the main input shaft (120) by the collected cleaning fluid. The invention proposes that the gear assembly (10) and the drive assembly (7) be configured to be stacked in a predefined sequence in a stacking arrangement (9) along the main axis of rotation (R1) and secured in the radial direction (R).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a tank cleaner, in particular an orbital cleaner, for cleaning a tank. The tank cleaner comprises a stationary body, which has a housing with an upper housing part designed for coupling to a supply line for receiving a cleaning fluid, and a lower housing part; a rotating body rotatable about a main axis of rotation, which is mounted on the stationary body; a gear arrangement comprising a gear assembly with a main input shaft and a main output shaft extending beyond the housing and designed for driving the rotating body about the main axis of rotation; and a drive arrangement coupled to the main input shaft for driving the main input shaft by means of the collected cleaning fluid.

[0002] In the field of tank cleaning, particularly in industrial and commercial sectors, tank cleaners are frequently used that employ rotating nozzles to dispense cleaning fluids under high pressure. These devices are essential for maintaining hygiene and operational efficiency in tanks used for storing various substances, including food, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Known systems typically consist of a combination of static and rotating components driven by fluid pressure to achieve the desired cleaning effect, as shown in DE 10 2019 005 830 A1. The rotating nozzles are generally driven by a drive assembly and a gear assembly that work together to convert the fluid pressure into a rotary motion.

[0003] Despite the effectiveness of these tank cleaners, some challenges remain. For example, the assembly and maintenance of these cleaning devices can be complex and time-consuming due to the intricate static body arrangement, which includes, at least partially, gear and drive components housed within a casing. In known designs, the components are often arranged in such a way that precise alignment, specially adapted tools, and multiple securing steps are required, which can lead to higher labor costs. Furthermore, the integration of the drive and gear assemblies into the cleaning device housing is generally not optimized for easy assembly and maintenance. This can lead to difficulties in accessing and servicing the internal components, further complicating the maintenance process.Furthermore, the correct arrangement and alignment of these components is crucial for the reliable operation of the cleaning device, but this cannot be verified without disassembling the entire static assembly. Misalignment or improper securing of the gear and drive assemblies can lead to mechanical failures and increased component wear.

[0004] Despite significant advances in tank cleaning technology, there remains a need for improved systems that address these challenges. In particular, there is a demand for tank cleaners that offer simplified and safer installation and allow for verification of the alignment and positioning of all components.

[0005] Therefore, one of the technical problems underlying the invention is to provide a tank cleaning device that at least partially overcomes the disadvantages of known systems.

[0006] The aim of this invention is to provide a tank cleaner that overcomes one or more of the disadvantages of known systems.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, these objectives are achieved by a tank cleaner according to claim 1.

[0008] The cleaner comprises a stationary body with a housing that includes an upper housing section, configured for connection to a supply line for collecting cleaning fluid, and a lower housing section. A rotating body, which turns about a main axis of rotation, is attached to the stationary body. A gear assembly with a main input shaft and a main output shaft extending beyond the housing is configured to drive the rotating body about the main axis of rotation. The drive assembly is coupled to the main input shaft so that it can be driven by the collected cleaning fluid. The rotating body, driven by the gear assembly, ensures thorough and uniform cleaning within the tank, thus solving the challenge of reaching all internal surfaces.The main input and output shafts of the gearbox assembly can be precisely aligned to ensure efficient power transmission, reduce wear, and extend the service life of the cleaner. The drive assembly, powered by the cleaning fluid, eliminates the need for external power sources, simplifying the cleaner's design and operation. This configuration also improves the cleaner's reliability, as it depends on a constant flow of cleaning fluid for proper function. Overall, the described tank cleaner can provide a compact, efficient, and reliable solution for maintaining tank cleanliness, particularly in industrial environments where thorough and consistent cleaning is essential.

[0009] The invention solves the aforementioned problem by proposing that the gear arrangement and the drive arrangement be designed to be stacked along the main axis of rotation in a predefined sequence and secured in the radial direction, thereby forming a stacked arrangement. This stacked arrangement allows the components to be mounted in the housing to be assembled in such a way that each component is assigned a predefined position in the axial direction and supported in the radial direction. Assembly can be carried out without special tools, thus simplifying the process. The components of the stacked arrangement support each other, eliminating the need for support structures or other assembly tools.The stacked arrangement thus allows the drive assembly and the gearbox assembly to be removed from the housing parts of the static body without requiring specially adapted tools or destroying any components. However, a tool may be required to separate the two or more housing parts of the static body.

[0010] Further embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims, which further develop the concept of the invention with regard to advantageous features in connection with the subject matter of the invention and with regard to further advantages.

[0011] Preferably, the stacking arrangement allows the components to be gathered at least partially outside the housing. In particular, it facilitates the stacking of parts requiring a specific orientation that needs to be checked outside the housing, while other components of the stacking arrangement can be stacked inside the housing and guided into their desired position by the respective housing parts of the static body.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the stacking arrangement of the tank cleaner, in particular an orbital cleaner for cleaning a tank, comprises at least one flat end face designed to define a base area onto which the stacking arrangement is placed. The flat end face ensures that the components are supported axially by a base area, providing a firm contact surface on conventional surfaces, which are typically also flat. This allows the components to be precisely aligned, facilitating the proper transmission of mechanical forces and rotational movements from the drive assembly to the gear assembly and ultimately to the rotating body. By defining a base area, the flat end face also helps to reduce the risk of misalignment or uneven wear, which can improve the durability and operational efficiency of the tank cleaner.Furthermore, the flat end face can be oriented either upwards or downwards, offering flexibility in part design. When the flat end face is oriented upwards, the stacking arrangement is inverted.

[0013] According to a further embodiment, the drive assembly comprises at least one stator that defines the flat end face forming the base region. Preferably, the end face is oriented upwards when the stacking assembly is inserted into the housing. The flat upper end face of the stator, which forms the base region when the stacking assembly is stacked but not yet inserted into the housing, serves as a fundamental element within the stacking assembly. The flat end face of the stator provides a stable and flat interface that facilitates the precise stacking of subsequent components, such as the gearbox assembly, thereby improving the overall structural integrity and operational efficiency of the tank cleaner.By defining the base area, the flat end face of the stator also helps to distribute mechanical loads and stresses evenly across the stack arrangement, thereby reducing the potential for misalignment or mechanical failure.

[0014] According to another embodiment, the stack arrangement is axially secured by the gear assembly. This ensures stable axial positioning of the stack arrangement, thereby improving the overall structural integrity of the stack arrangement and the operational reliability of the tank cleaner. The axial locking mechanism provided by the gear assembly prevents axial displacement of the components within the stack, which could otherwise lead to misalignment or operational efficiency losses. Additionally, the gear assembly preferably engages with the stator, creating a direct mechanical interface between these two components.The interaction between the gearbox assembly and the stator also contributes to the stabilization of the stack assembly, as the stator and the gearbox assembly form two opposing supports in the axial direction, which ensure a robust axial fastening of the stack assembly.

[0015] According to a further embodiment, the gear arrangement comprises a stationary gear that engages with the main output shaft. This engagement preferably ensures that the rotary motion generated by the drive arrangement, which is coupled to the main input shaft and driven by the cleaning fluid, is effectively transmitted to the main output shaft and further to the nozzle holder driven by the stationary gear. The engagement of the stationary gear with the main output shaft enables a stable and uniform transmission of torque. Furthermore, the stationary gear defines a stop shoulder for supporting the stack arrangement. This stop shoulder provides axial support for the stack arrangement, which comprises the gear arrangement and the drive arrangement in a predefined sequence and is secured in the radial direction.By defining a stop shoulder, the stationary gear ensures that the components within the stack assembly are precisely aligned and held in their intended positions, while simultaneously allowing the output shaft to extend beyond the stack assembly to be coupled to the nozzle holder, for example, via a recess provided in the lower housing part. By holding the components of the stack assembly in their intended positions, the rotational movement of the output shaft is not impaired.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, the stacking arrangement includes a housing part designed to accommodate the drive assembly, in particular the stator and / or an impeller. Thus, a special housing part is provided within the stacking arrangement to accommodate the drive assembly. The drive assembly, comprising the stator and / or an impeller, is therefore securely housed within this housing part. By housing the stator and / or impeller within the housing part, the design allows for a more compact and organized arrangement, thereby reducing the risk of misalignment or mechanical interference between the components. This configuration also helps to protect the drive assembly from external contamination and mechanical damage, potentially increasing the service life and reliability of the tank cleaner.Furthermore, the housing component can contribute to the overall structural integrity of the stack assembly by providing additional support and rigidity. The radial mounting also ensures that the components remain fixed in their intended positions, minimizing the risk of lateral displacement that could lead to operational efficiency losses or mechanical failures.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the tank cleaner comprises a housing section containing an internal stop element. This internal stop element is specifically designed to provide axial support for the stator and / or the impeller. This axial support ensures that these components remain securely in place during operation of the tank cleaner. Both the stator and the impeller, which interacts with the cleaning fluid to generate the required driving force, benefit from this axial support. The internal stop element reduces the risk of axial displacement or misalignment that could otherwise lead to operational efficiency losses or mechanical failures. By ensuring that the stator and impeller are axially supported within the housing, the design simplifies the assembly process and reduces the likelihood of assembly errors.This in turn contributes to the overall reliability and ease of use of the tank cleaner, making it a more robust and reliable solution for tank cleaning applications.

[0018] According to a further embodiment, the tank cleaner, in particular the orbital cleaner for cleaning a tank, is improved by incorporating a housing part configured as a ring gear. This ring gear engages with the transmission assembly and is designed to radially support the transmission assembly. The ring gear, meshing with the gears of the transmission assembly, facilitates the transmission of rotary motion from the drive assembly to the rotating body. By engaging with the transmission assembly, the ring gear ensures that the rotary forces are effectively transmitted and distributed, thereby improving the stability and efficiency of the transmission operation. The radial support provided by the ring gear is crucial for maintaining the alignment and integrity of the transmission assembly, especially under the dynamic operating conditions in which the cleaning fluid drives the main input shaft.This radial support reduces the risk of misalignment or displacement of the gears, which could otherwise lead to operational efficiency losses or mechanical failures. Furthermore, integrating the ring gear as a housing component provides additional protection for the gearbox assembly by shielding it from external contamination and mechanical damage. Moreover, the integration of the ring gear into the stacked arrangement along the main axis of rotation enhances the compact and efficient design of the tank cleaner, resulting in a streamlined assembly that is both space-saving and easy to maintain.

[0019] According to another embodiment, the stop shoulder is a first stop shoulder. In this respect, the first stop shoulder serves as the first contact and support point within the assembly. Furthermore, the housing part is designed to define a second stop shoulder, which provides additional axial support for the stacking arrangement. The second stop shoulder serves as a secondary stabilizing point. This configuration with two stop shoulders increases the robustness of the stacking arrangement during stacking. The presence of these stop shoulders facilitates the assembly and maintenance of the tank cleaner, as the components can be precisely positioned and locked without complex adjustments.

[0020] According to another embodiment, the housing part is designed to radially align the drive assembly. The housing part serves as a critical intermediate element, ensuring the precise radial positioning of the drive assembly relative to the main axis of rotation. This enables seamless and stable interaction between the drive assembly and the gearbox assembly, which are stacked along the main axis of rotation. The radial alignment provided by the housing part mitigates potential alignment problems that could occur during stacking. This feature also simplifies assembly and maintenance processes by providing a clear and defined structure for positioning the drive assembly, thus facilitating the assembly and maintenance of the tank cleaner for technicians.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the stacking arrangement includes a spacer positioned axially with respect to the main axis of rotation between the stationary gear and the housing part. The spacer serves to maintain a defined distance between the stationary gear and the housing part, thus preventing undesired axial movements that could lead to misalignment or wear over time. This axial arrangement contributes to the stability and durability of the gear assembly by ensuring that the components remain securely in place during assembly and operation. Furthermore, the stacking arrangement is enhanced by positioning the spacer between the first and second stop shoulders. This specific positioning provides additional mechanical stability by creating a defined boundary within which the spacer operates.The first stop shoulder and the second stop shoulder act as physical barriers that limit the axial movement of the spacer, thus ensuring that it remains in the correct position relative to the stationary gear and the housing part.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the stacking assembly is designed to be inserted as a whole into either the upper or the lower housing part. The stacking assembly, which includes the gear assembly and the drive assembly, is designed to be pre-assembled and then inserted into the housing part as a single unit. This modular approach simplifies the installation process, as the gear and drive assemblies no longer need to be individually mounted in the housing. The gear assembly, including the transmission unit with its main input shaft and main output shaft, and the drive assembly, which is coupled to the main input shaft, are aligned in a predefined sequence. This alignment ensures that the components are correctly positioned relative to each other and to the main axis of rotation.The correct arrangement can be easily verified by visually inspecting the stack assembly or parts thereof outside the housing. The stack assembly is then inserted into the housing component, where it is secured radially. This securing mechanism prevents lateral movement of the stack assembly and ensures that the components remain in their correct position during operation. The new ability to use the stack assembly as a single unit reduces assembly time and labor, resulting in greater efficiency in the manufacturing process. Furthermore, it simplifies maintenance and repair, as the stack assembly can be easily removed and replaced as a single unit. This modularity enables faster troubleshooting and replacement of defective components, minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the drive assembly is coupled to the gearbox assembly via a plug connection. This plug connection enables a simpler and more efficient assembly and disassembly process, which is particularly advantageous for maintenance and repair work. Using a plug connection significantly reduces the need for complex tools and procedures for connecting or disconnecting the drive assembly from the gearbox assembly, thereby minimizing downtime and labor costs. Furthermore, this type of connection ensures a safe and reliable transmission of the drive force from the drive assembly to the gearbox assembly, which is crucial for the consistent and effective operation of the rotating body around its main axis of rotation.The integration of a plug connection is also consistent with the stacked arrangement of the gearbox and drive units along the main axis of rotation and ensures that the components are secured in both axial and radial directions. This alignment and securing contribute to the overall stability and balance of the tank cleaner.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, the tank cleaner, particularly the orbital cleaner, is improved by incorporating a housing with at least one alignment area designed to have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of one or more components of the stacking arrangement. This alignment area ensures precise and secure positioning of the components within the housing, thereby improving the overall stability and functionality of the tank cleaner. Specifically, the alignment area is configured to correspond to the outer diameter of the housing part and / or the outer diameter of the spacer and / or the outer diameter of the stationary gear. The housing part, which is a critical component of the stacking arrangement, benefits from this alignment by being securely housed and preventing lateral movements that could disrupt the operation of the tank cleaner.Similarly, the spacer, which serves to maintain the correct distance between different components within the stacked assembly, is securely positioned by the alignment area, ensuring that the spatial arrangement of the components is maintained as intended. Furthermore, the fixed gear connected to the gear assembly is also securely positioned by the alignment area.

[0025] According to a second aspect, the invention solves the aforementioned problem by means of a static body arrangement according to claim 15. In particular, the invention proposes a static body arrangement comprising a static body with a housing containing an upper housing part of the static body, which is configured for connection to a supply line for receiving cleaning fluid, and a lower housing part. This configuration ensures a secure and efficient connection to the fluid supply and facilitates the flow of the cleaning fluid into the system. Additionally, the static body arrangement comprises a gear arrangement comprising a gear assembly with a main input shaft and a main output shaft extending beyond the housing.The drive assembly is coupled to the main input shaft, which is driven by the incoming cleaning fluid, thereby converting the fluid's kinetic energy into mechanical energy to power the cleaning process. The gear assembly and the drive assembly are designed to be stacked along the main axis of rotation in a predefined sequence and secured radially. This stacked arrangement allows the static body assembly to benefit from the advantages described in connection with the first aspect of the invention. Thus, the advantages and preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are simultaneously advantages and preferred embodiments of the second aspect of the invention.

[0026] According to a third aspect, the invention solves the aforementioned problem by a method for assembling a tank cleaner, in particular an orbital cleaner, according to claim 16. The method begins with the provision of a static body comprising a housing with an upper housing part configured for coupling to a supply line for receiving a cleaning fluid, and a lower housing part. This first step creates the basic structure required for the subsequent assembly. The method then comprises stacking a gear assembly and a drive assembly to form a stacked assembly. The gear assembly comprises a transmission unit with a main input shaft and a main output shaft extending beyond the housing and configured to drive the rotating body about the main axis of rotation.The drive assembly is then coupled to the main input shaft so that it can drive the main input shaft when driven by the collected cleaning fluid. This coupling mechanism ensures that the driving force of the cleaning fluid is effectively transferred to the drive assembly, thus facilitating the rotation of the rotating body. The stack assembly is carefully stacked along the main axis of rotation in a predefined sequence and secured radially to ensure that the components are aligned and stable during operation. The procedure further involves inserting the stack assembly into either the upper or lower housing section, depending on the design and assembly requirements.In this respect, the gear assembly and the drive assembly are either inserted into the upper housing part or the lower housing part if they already form the stacked assembly. Alternatively, the gear assembly and the drive assembly are individually inserted into one of the upper housing parts and the lower housing part and stacked therein to form the stacked assembly. This insertion step facilitates the formation of a static body assembly, which defines the static body with the housing containing the gear assembly and drive assembly. Alternatively, the stacked assembly can be stacked at least partially within the upper housing part or the lower housing part. Once the stacked assembly is in place, the procedure includes closing the upper housing part and the lower housing part, thereby securing the internal components and protecting them from external influences.Finally, the method includes mounting a rotating body that rotates about the main axis of rotation on the stationary body. This last step completes the assembly, resulting in a fully functional tank cleaner capable of performing efficient and effective cleaning operations. By assembling a stacked arrangement, the method utilizes the advantages described in connection with the first aspect of the invention. Thus, the advantages and preferred embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are simultaneously advantages and preferred embodiments of the third aspect of the invention.

[0027] The present disclosure will be further explained by means of examples with reference to the drawings in which: Fig. 1a: shows an embodiment of a tank cleaner with a static body, a rotating body and several nozzles; Fig. 1b: shows a cross-section of the tank cleaner, showing the internal components including the gear assembly, the drive assembly and the housing; Fig. 2: A perspective exploded view of a stacking arrangement for a tank cleaner shows the components including the drive assembly, the gearbox assembly and the housing part; Fig. 3: An exploded side view of the components of a tank cleaner shows the stacking arrangement of the drive assembly and the gearbox assembly along the main axis of rotation; and Fig. 4: A flowchart shows a procedure for assembling a static arrangement of bodies.

[0028] Fig. Figure 1a shows a tank cleaner 1, in particular an orbital cleaner 2, designed for cleaning tanks. The tank cleaner 1 comprises a static body assembly 3a, a rotating body 4, and a nozzle carrier 8. The static body assembly 3a comprises a static body 3 and a stacking arrangement 9, which is arranged in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 are shown.

[0029] The static body 3 comprises a housing 30 with an upper housing part 31 and a lower housing part 32. The upper housing part 31 is designed for connection to a supply line 6 for receiving cleaning fluid. The upper housing part 31 facilitates connection to the supply line 6 and ensures that the cleaning fluid is directed into the housing 30 for subsequent use in the cleaning process.

[0030] The rotating body 4 is mounted on the static body 3 and rotates about a main axis of rotation R1. The rotating body 4 is driven by a gear arrangement 10 (see Fig. 1b) and a drive arrangement 7 (see Fig. 1b) driven about the main axis of rotation R1. This rotation enables the rotating body 4 to perform cleaning operations within the tank by distributing the cleaning fluid in a controlled manner. The rotating body 4, which is mounted on the stationary body 3, rotates about the main axis of rotation R1, with the nozzle carrier 8 being rotated by the rotating body 4 about a secondary axis of rotation R2.

[0031] The tank cleaner 1 also includes several nozzles 82 mounted on the nozzle carrier 8, which is driven about the secondary axis of rotation R2 and supported by the rotating body 4. The nozzles 82 are strategically positioned to direct the cleaning fluid within the tank and ensure thorough cleaning.

[0032] Fig. Figure 1b shows a cross-section of the tank cleaner 1, which shows the internal components and their arrangement in detail.

[0033] The drive assembly 7 comprises a stator 71 and an impeller 72, which are housed in a casing part 94. The stator 71 defines a flat end face 91, which is oriented upwards.

[0034] The gear arrangement 10 comprises a gear assembly 11 with a main input shaft 120 and a main output shaft 130. The gear assembly 11 is configured to drive the rotary body 4 about the main axis of rotation R1.

[0035] The drive assembly 7 is coupled to the main input shaft 120 and is responsible for driving the main input shaft 120 using the force provided by the cleaning fluid. This coupling enables the cleaning fluid to drive the gear assembly 10, which in turn drives the rotary body 4. The drive assembly 7 is coupled to the gear assembly 11 via a plug connection 73, thus ensuring a safe and efficient transmission of the rotational force.

[0036] The main output shaft 130 projects beyond the housing 30 and is configured to drive the rotating body 4 about the main axis of rotation R1. This arrangement ensures that the rotary motion required for cleaning is transmitted from the gear assembly 11 to the rotating body 4.

[0037] The main output shaft 130 is further engaged with a stationary gear 160, which drives the nozzle carrier 8 to rotate about the secondary axis of rotation R2. The stationary gear 160 defines a stop shoulder 161 that supports the stacking arrangement 9.

[0038] Additionally, a spacer 96 is positioned axially between the stationary gear 160 and the housing part 94. The housing part 94 is configured as a ring gear 95, which engages with the gear assembly 11 and provides radial support.

[0039] The housing 30 has at least one alignment area 33 with an inner diameter di that corresponds to the outer diameter do of the enclosed components, such as the housing part 94, the spacer 96 and the stationary gear 160.

[0040] For assembly, the gear arrangement 10 and the drive arrangement 7 are designed so that they can be arranged in a stacking arrangement 9 along the main axis of rotation R1 in a predefined sequence, which is in Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows this stacking arrangement 9 secured in the radial direction R, ensuring that the components remain correctly aligned and function together to facilitate the cleaning process inside the tank.

[0041] Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows an exploded view, which specifically details the stacking arrangement 9 along the main axis of rotation R1, wherein Fig. 2 the stack arrangement 9 in a perspective exploded view and Fig. Figure 3 shows the stacking arrangement 9 in a side view. Identical or similar components are included in Figure 3. Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 the same reference symbols, and reference is made to the description above.

[0042] The stacking arrangement 9 is made up of the drive arrangement 7 and the gear arrangement 10 and is preferably designed so that it can be inserted as a whole either into the upper housing part 31 or into the lower housing part 32, which facilitates assembly and maintenance.

[0043] Starting from the left side of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 The drive arrangement 7 includes the stator 71, which defines the flat end face 91, which is located in the Fig. The assembled state shown in 1b is oriented upwards and forms the base area 93 of the stacking arrangement 9 during assembly. Therefore, the stacking arrangement is preferably oriented with respect to the Fig. 1b shows the assembled state stacked upside down.

[0044] The stator 71 is coupled to the main input shaft 120 via the connector 74, thereby defining the plug connection 73, which facilitates the connection of the drive assembly 7 to the assembly 10. Adjacent to the stator 71 is the impeller 72, which is also part of the drive assembly 7. The impeller 72 is responsible for converting the absorbed cleaning fluid into mechanical energy to drive the main input shaft 120.

[0045] Next in the stacking arrangement 9 is the housing part 94, which is configured as a ring gear 95. The ring gear 95 engages with the gear assembly 11 and provides radial support.

[0046] Next, the gear arrangement 10, which includes the gear assembly 11, is shown. The gear assembly 11 comprises the main input shaft 120 and the main output shaft 130. The main input shaft 120 is driven by the drive arrangement 7, while the main output shaft 130 extends beyond the housing 30 (see Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b), to create the body of revolution 4 (see Fig. 1a, Fig. 1b) to drive the main axis of rotation R1. The stationary gear 160, which is part of the gear assembly 10, engages with the main output shaft 130. The stationary gear 160 defines a stop shoulder 161 that supports the stack assembly 9.

[0047] The housing part 94 also has an internal stop element 94a that axially supports the stator 71 and / or the impeller 72. Additionally, the housing part 94 defines the second stop shoulder 97, which further supports the stacking arrangement 9.

[0048] Additionally, the stacking arrangement 9 includes the spacer 96, which is positioned axially between the stationary gear 160 and the housing part 94, specifically between the first stop shoulder 161 and the second stop shoulder 97 defined by the housing part 94. This spacer 96 ensures the correct axial alignment and spacing within the stacking arrangement 9.

[0049] In summary, the stack assembly 9 is meticulously arranged along the main axis of rotation R1. The drive assembly 7, including the stator 71 and the impeller 72, initiates the mechanical motion, which is then transmitted via the gear assembly 10, comprising the gear unit 11 with the main input shaft 120 and the main output shaft 130. The housing part 94, configured as a ring gear 95, together with the spacer 96, ensures proper alignment and support within the stack assembly 9. The fixed gear 160 with its stop shoulder 161 provides additional axial support and completes the assembly. Fig. 2 shown assembly.

[0050] The overall construction of the tank cleaner 1 with its stacking arrangement 9 and integrated gearbox arrangement 10 and drive arrangement 7 offers a robust and efficient solution for tank cleaning applications.

[0051] Fig. Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a method 1000 for assembling a tank cleaner 1, in particular a tank cleaner 1 according to Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b.

[0052] In a first step 1100 of the method 100, a static body 3 is provided with a housing 30, which has an upper housing part 31, which is designed to be coupled to a supply line 6 for receiving a cleaning fluid, and a lower housing part 32.

[0053] In a second step 1200, the method 1000 comprises stacking a gear arrangement 10 and a drive arrangement 7 together to form a stacking arrangement 9.

[0054] The gear arrangement 10 is preferably designed according to Fig. 2 and Fig.3 is formed and comprises a gear assembly 11 with a main input shaft 120 and a main output shaft 130 extending beyond the housing 30, as well as the drive arrangement 7, which is coupled to the main input shaft 120 to drive the main input shaft 120 through the collected cleaning fluid. In the second step 1200, the stacking arrangement 9 is stacked along the main axis of rotation R1 in a predefined sequence and secured in the radial direction R.

[0055] A third step 1300 of the method 1000 comprises inserting the gear assembly 10 and the drive assembly 7 into the upper housing part 31 or the lower housing part 32. In a first alternative, the gear assembly 10 and the drive assembly 7 are inserted into one of the two housing parts 31 and 32 during the formation of the stacking arrangement 9. Alternatively, the gear assembly 10 and the drive assembly 7 are inserted, at least partially, individually into one of the two housing parts 31 and 32 and stacked therein to form the stacking arrangement 9. Next, in a fourth step 1400, the upper housing part 31 and the lower housing part 32 are closed.

[0056] In a fifth step 1500, the method 1000 comprises attaching a rotating body 4 rotatable about a main axis of rotation R1 to the static body 3. Preferably, in a sixth step 1600, the method 1000 comprises mounting a nozzle carrier 8 with one or more nozzles 82 to the rotating body 4, wherein the nozzle carrier 8 is mounted such that it engages with the gear arrangement 10, in particular the stationary gear 160, in order to drive the secondary axis of rotation R2. Reference symbol list 1 Tank cleaner 2 orbital cleaners 3 static bodies 3a static body arrangement 4 Rotating Bodies 6 Supply line 7 Drive arrangement 8 nozzle carriers 9 Stack assembly 10 Gear arrangement 11 Gearbox assembly 30 cases 31 upper housing part 32 lower housing part 33 Alignment area 71 Stator 71a (first) level surface 72 impellers 73 Plug connection 74 plugs 82 nozzle 91 Front surface 93 Basic area 94 Housing part 95 Ring gear 96 spacer 97 second shoulder 120 Main input shaft 130 Main output shaft 160 fixed gear 161 (first) shoulder R1 Main axis of rotation R2 secondary axis of rotation the inner diameter do outer diameter 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 2019 005 830 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Tank cleaner (1), in particular orbital cleaner (2), for cleaning a tank, comprising: - a static body (3) with a housing (30) comprising an upper housing part (31) for coupling with a supply line (6) for receiving a cleaning fluid and a lower housing part (32), - a rotating body (4) which is rotatable about a main axis of rotation (R1) and is mounted on the static body (3), - a gear arrangement (10) with a gear assembly (11) having a main input shaft (120) and a main output shaft (130) extending beyond the housing (30) and designed to drive the rotating body (4) about the main axis of rotation (R1), - a drive arrangement (7) coupled to the main input shaft (120) for driving the main input shaft (120) by means of the cleaning fluid received, characterized by, that the gear arrangement (10) and the drive arrangement (7) are designed to be stacked in a stacking arrangement (9) along the main axis of rotation (R1) in a predefined sequence and secured in the radial direction (R). [2] Tank cleaner (1) according to claim 1, wherein the stacking arrangement (9) has at least one flat end face (91) configured to define a base area (93) on which the stacking arrangement (9) is stacked, wherein the flat end face (91) is oriented either upwards or downwards. [3] Tank cleaner (1) according to claim 2, wherein the drive arrangement (7) comprises at least one stator (71) defining the flat upper end face (91) which forms the base area (93). [4] Tank cleaner (1) according to claim 3, wherein the stack arrangement (9) is axially secured by the gear arrangement (10), in particular the gear assembly (11), which engages with the stator (71). [5] Tank cleaner (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the gear arrangement (10) comprises a stationary gear (160) which engages with the main output shaft (130), wherein the stationary gear (160) defines a stop shoulder (161) for supporting the stack arrangement (9). [6] Tank cleaner (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stacking arrangement (9) comprises a housing part (94) which is configured to accommodate the drive arrangement (7), in particular the stator (71) and / or an impeller (72). [7] Tank cleaner (1) according to claim 6, wherein the housing part (94) has an internal stop element (94a) configured to axially support the stator (71) and / or the impeller (72). [8] Tank cleaner (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the housing part (94) is configured as a ring gear (95) which engages with the gear assembly (11) and is configured to radially support the gear assembly (11). [9] Tank cleaner (1) according to claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein the stop shoulder (161) is a first stop shoulder (161) and the housing part (94) defines a second stop shoulder (97) for supporting the stacking arrangement (9). [10] Tank cleaner (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing part (94) is configured to align the drive arrangement (7) radially. [11] Tank cleaner (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stacking arrangement (9) comprises a spacer (96) which is arranged axially with respect to the main axis of rotation (R1) between the stationary gear (160) and the housing part (94), in particular between the first stop shoulder (161) and the second stop shoulder (97). [12] Tank cleaner (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stacking arrangement (9) is configured to be inserted as a whole into the upper housing part (31) or the lower housing part (32). [13] Tank cleaner (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the drive arrangement (7) is coupled to the gearbox assembly (11) via a plug connection (73). [14] Tank cleaner (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (30) has at least one alignment area (33) with an inner diameter (di) corresponding to an outer diameter (do) of one, several or all of the following components of the stacking arrangement (9): - the housing part (94), - the spacer (96), - the stationary gear (160). [15] Static body arrangement (3a) for a tank cleaner (1), in particular a tank cleaner according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising: - a static body (3) with a housing (30) having an upper housing part (31) designed for connection to a supply line (6) for receiving a cleaning fluid, and a lower housing part (32), - a gear arrangement (10) with a gear assembly (11) having a main input shaft (120) and a main output shaft (130) extending beyond the housing (30), - a drive arrangement (7) coupled to the main input shaft (120) for driving the main input shaft (120) by means of the cleaning fluid received, characterized by , that the gear arrangement (10) and the drive arrangement (7) are designed to be stacked in a stacking arrangement (9) along the main axis of rotation (R1) in a predefined sequence and secured in the radial direction (R). [16] Method (1000) for assembling a tank cleaner (1), in particular a tank cleaner (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, comprising the following steps: - Providing (1100) a static body (3) with a housing (30) having an upper housing part (31) designed for coupling to a supply line (6) for receiving a cleaning fluid, and a lower housing part (32), - Stacking (1200) a gear arrangement (10) and a drive arrangement (7) to form a stacking arrangement (9), wherein the gear arrangement (10) comprises a gear assembly (11) with a main input shaft (120) and a main output shaft (130) extending beyond the housing (30) and driving the rotating body (4) about the main axis of rotation (R1), and wherein the drive arrangement (7) is coupled to the main input shaft (120) to drive the main input shaft (120) through the received cleaning fluid, wherein the stacking arrangement (9) is stacked along the main axis of rotation (R1) in a predefined sequence and secured in the radial direction (R), - Inserting (1300) the gear assembly (10) and the drive assembly (7) into the upper housing part (31) or the lower housing part (32), wherein the gear assembly (10) and the drive assembly (7) are either inserted into one of the housing parts (31) and (32) when forming the stacking arrangement (9), or the gear assembly (10) and the drive assembly (7) are individually inserted into the upper housing part (31) and the lower housing part (32) and stacked therein to form the stacking arrangement (9), - Closing (1400) of the upper housing part (31) and the lower housing part (32), - Mounting (1500) a rotating body (4) rotatable about a main axis of rotation (R1) on the static body (3).

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