Integrated mobile plaster manufacturing system

Abstract

Vehicle with one or more wheel axles for transporting plaster components and for producing and pumping plaster, comprising: - at least one storage container for plaster components in powder form, - at least one pump suitable for pumping powdered plaster ingredients to one end, the pump being connected to the storage tank and designed to take the powdered plaster ingredients from the storage tank and pump them out, - at least one generator for driving, among other things, the pump; wherein the vehicle comprises one or more water tanks, and wherein the pump is a mixing pump, wherein the mixing pump is connected to at least one of the water tanks and is designed to mix powdered cleaning ingredients from the storage tank with water from at least one of the water tanks during pumping, characterized in that the mixing pump is located below the storage tank, wherein the mixing pump is positioned at the level of one of the wheel axles of the vehicle, and the vehicle comprises a pump suitable for supplying water from at least one of the water tanks to the mixing pump under constant pressure, wherein the storage tank has a shape that narrows towards the bottom and terminates in an outlet that is directly connected to the mixing pump.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle for transporting plaster ingredients and for producing and pumping plaster.

[0002] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for transporting plaster ingredients and for producing and pumping plaster.

[0003] In a third aspect, the invention relates to the use of a vehicle suitable for transporting plaster ingredients and for producing and pumping plaster. STATE OF THE ART

[0004] Traditional plastering methods require a significant amount of manual labor. First, all the materials needed to mix the plaster, such as powdered plaster ingredients, mixing equipment, and a pump, must be transported to the specific work site. This transport process can involve multiple trips with different vehicles or frequent back-and-forth journeys with a single vehicle.

[0005] An additional challenge is adjusting the necessary machinery. Correctly setting the equipment for water supply, mixing, and pumping the plaster is crucial for the efficiency of the work process and the quality of the final result, as plaster hardens quickly and must be used immediately after mixing. These settings often need to be adjusted on-site, which requires additional time and expertise and frequently has a negative impact on the plastering process.

[0006] Another significant problem is the dependence on local water supplies. Working with the water pressure provided by these pipes can be unpredictable, which negatively affects the consistency of the plaster.

[0007] When delivering the plaster components in powder form and feeding them into a mixer, the working environment can become very dusty, which poses health risks for the workers, such as respiratory problems and allergic reactions.

[0008] This requires additional safety measures such as wearing protective equipment, which increases the cost and complexity of the project.

[0009] A vehicle that combines both the mixing and pumping functions for powdered ingredients is described in EP2952312B. In this vehicle, binders and fillers are mixed, stored in a container, and then pumped using a single vehicle.

[0010] However, there is a need for an integrated system that combines the transport of powdered plaster with its production and pumping, thereby increasing efficiency by reducing traditional manual labor. This not only saves time and resources but also improves the quality of the final result.

[0011] The present invention aims to find a solution to at least some of the aforementioned problems or disadvantages. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle with one or more wheel axles for producing and pumping plaster, comprising: at least one storage container for storing plaster components in powder form, at least one pump suitable for pumping plaster components in powder form to one end, wherein the pump is connected to the storage container and is designed to receive and pump the plaster components in powder form from the storage container, one or more water tanks, at least one generator for driving, among other things, the pump, wherein the pump is a mixing pump 3, wherein the mixing pump 3 is connected to at least one of the water tanks and is designed to mix plaster components in powder form from the storage container with water from at least one of the water tanks during pumping.

[0013] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for transporting plaster ingredients and for producing and pumping plaster, comprising: storing plaster ingredients in powder form on a vehicle with one or more wheel axles in one or more storage compartments on the vehicle; moving the vehicle to a location; feeding the plaster ingredients in powder form to a mixing pump on the vehicle; feeding water to the mixing pump; producing plaster from the plaster ingredients in powder form and the water with the mixing pump; pumping the plaster with a mixing pump mounted on the vehicle; and characterized in that the plaster is produced during pumping and the water is supplied from one or more water tanks on the vehicle.

[0014] In a third aspect, the invention relates to the use of a vehicle according to the first aspect of the invention for transporting, among other things, plaster ingredients in powder form and water, for producing plaster and for pumping plaster.

[0015] The vehicle offers significant efficiency and flexibility advantages in plastering operations, as it is completely self-sufficient and can quickly produce plaster without dependence on external material supplies, making it possible to use the invention in a wider variety of locations compared to conventional techniques. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0016] The figures are non-limiting examples that illustrate the invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the invention or to be interpreted as such a limitation. Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a side view of a vehicle for transporting, among other things, plaster ingredients in powder form and water, for mixing plaster and for pumping plaster. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings that people skilled in the art would normally understand them to have. For better understanding of the description of the invention, the following terms are expressly explained.

[0018] In this document, "ein / eine / eines" and "der / die / das" refer to both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, "ein Segment" means one or more than one segment.

[0019] “Mixing” refers to the process of mixing plaster ingredients in powder form with water to create plaster.

[0020] The terms “comprise”, “comprehensive”, “consist of”, “consisting of”, “provided with”, “exhibiting”, “include”, “including”, “containing”, “containing” are synonyms and inclusive or open terms that indicate the presence of what follows and do not exclude or prevent the presence of other components, features, elements, links, steps known or described in the prior art.

[0021] Within the scope of the invention, "wheel axle" means at least one virtual axle on which a wheel is mounted on each side. This can be achieved, for example, by means of independent wheel suspension, but also by means of a rigid axle.

[0022] Within the scope of the invention, plaster is defined as a mixture comprising, among other things, one or more of the following ingredients: sand, lime, cement, gypsum and water, wherein in the present context the ingredients of plaster are divided into the groups of powdered plaster ingredients and water.

[0023] The term "fill level" refers to the level to which the vehicle's storage compartment is filled with cleaning ingredients in powder form.

[0024] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle with one or more wheel axles for producing and pumping plaster, comprising: at least one storage container for storing plaster ingredients in powder form, at least one pump suitable for pumping plaster ingredients in powder form to one end, wherein the pump is connected to the storage container and is designed to receive and pump the plaster ingredients in powder form from the storage container, one or more water tanks, at least one generator for driving, among other things, the pump, wherein the pump is a mixing pump, wherein the mixing pump is connected to at least one of the water tanks and is designed to mix plaster ingredients in powder form from the storage container with water from at least one of the water tanks during pumping.

[0025] The vehicle offers significant advantages through the integration of a water tank, meaning all necessary operating fluids are housed within a single vehicle. This integrated design makes the vehicle completely self-sufficient, which not only increases on-site efficiency but also significantly improves flexibility. The ability to quickly and effectively mix and pump plaster at any location, without relying on external material supplies, means that work can be completed faster and with fewer interruptions. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of technical problems such as blockages that can arise from inconsistencies in the mixing process or from premature hardening of the plaster.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the water tank has a capacity of at least 1000 l, and preferably at least 2000 l, and even more preferably at least 2500 l.

[0027] The vehicle includes a water pump designed to deliver water from at least one of the water tanks to the mixing pump at a constant pressure. Stable and precise pressure ensures that the water is evenly mixed with the powdered plaster components, resulting in a homogeneous mixture. This consistent mixing process is essential for achieving the desired plaster quality. Precise pressure control prevents fluctuations in the mixture that could otherwise lead to uneven curing and a loss of plaster quality. The water pump thus directly contributes to ensuring a consistent and high-quality final product.

[0028] In a subsequent or alternative preferred embodiment, the mixing pump includes a water pressure booster pump AV 1000, which is suitable for regulating the correct water pressure. This allows the water pressure to be regulated directly at the mixing pump, which increases the accuracy of the water pressure control.

[0029] The storage unit has a shape that tapers towards the bottom and terminates in at least one outlet connected to a mixing pump. This eliminates the need for separate feeding systems for powdered material, thus simplifying the process. A simplified process increases the efficiency of plaster production and reduces the risk of technical problems. In another preferred embodiment, the storage unit has two outlets, each connected to a mixing pump. This increases the vehicle's plaster supply capacity. A second mixing pump can also be used as a backup, thereby increasing the vehicle's reliability in plaster delivery.

[0030] In a subsequent or alternative preferred embodiment, the at least one mixing pump is a PFT G4 XL.

[0031] In a subsequent or alternative preferred embodiment, the narrowing of the storage area is formed by at least two side walls which are inclined inwards at an angle of at least 20 degrees, preferably at least 30 degrees, and even more preferably at least 45 degrees.

[0032] In a further or alternative preferred embodiment, the one or the two outlets of the storage tank have a cylindrical shape, such as a bellows, with a diameter between 100 mm and 500 mm, and preferably between 200 mm and 400 mm, and even more preferably between 250 mm and 350 mm.

[0033] In a further or alternative embodiment, the one or the two outlets of the storage tank comprise a butterfly valve, preferably with a bellows, which forms a connection between a mixing pump and the butterfly valve of the storage tank.

[0034] In a further or alternative preferred embodiment, the storage unit includes an access point in the top so that the interior of the storage unit can be serviced for cleaning or repair.

[0035] In a further or alternative preferred embodiment, the storage unit comprises a ventilation pipe with a diameter of at least 50 mm and preferably at least 100 mm. This ventilation pipe prevents overpressure from building up inside the storage unit. In a further preferred embodiment, the end located outside the storage unit is connected to a dust bag that can collect any powdered plaster components that escape from the storage unit via the ventilation pipe.

[0036] The mixing pump is positioned at the level of one of the vehicle's wheel axles. This adjustment allows the storage unit to be positioned lower, enabling more effective use of vertical space for storing powdered plaster components. This significantly increases the storage capacity of the unit. It also simplifies the feeding of powdered plaster components to the mixing pump, as the pump can be positioned below the storage unit, allowing the powdered plaster components to "fall" into the pump, eliminating the need for a feeding mechanism.

[0037] In a subsequent or alternative preferred embodiment, the storage unit is equipped with a vibrating device suitable for shaking the unit. Due to their own weight, some of the powdered plaster components can clump together in the unit. This impedes the flow to the mixing pump and, in the worst case, can completely block the flow. Shaking the unit can solve or prevent this problem. In a further preferred embodiment, the vibrating device comprises four vibrating motors mounted on the unit.

[0038] In a subsequent or alternative preferred embodiment, the storage unit is equipped with one or more sensors that can continuously record its contents. This enables monitoring of the consumption of powdered plaster components during the plaster manufacturing process. This allows for the timely detection of problems such as a blockage in the storage unit, after which the vibrating device can be activated to resolve the issue. It also allows for an estimation of how much work can still be completed with the current stock and when replenishment might be necessary.

[0039] In another embodiment, the alarm sounds when the reservoir is measured to be nearly empty. When the reservoir is nearly empty, the risk of the mixing pump running almost or even completely dry increases. This can lead to overheating, leaks, and mechanical damage. The alarm signal allows the mixing pump to be switched off promptly, and possibly automatically, when the reservoir is about to run dry. In a further preferred embodiment, one or more 42 V level sensors (SG12) are used.

[0040] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for transporting plaster ingredients and for producing and pumping plaster, comprising the following: storing plaster ingredients in powder form on a vehicle with one or more wheel axles in one or more storage compartments on the vehicle; moving the vehicle to a location; feeding the plaster ingredients in powder form to a mixing pump on the vehicle; feeding water to the mixing pump; producing plaster from the plaster ingredients in powder form and the water using the mixing pump; pumping the plaster using a mixing pump provided on the vehicle, and characterized in that the plaster is produced during pumping and that the water is supplied from one or more water tanks on the vehicle.

[0041] Mixing the plaster while pumping ensures a continuous and smooth supply, resulting in less downtime due to faster application. Furthermore, it reduces the need for separate mixing and pumping steps, decreasing logistical complexity and saving space on the vehicle. This not only increases productivity but also improves the quality of the plaster by using fresher material.

[0042] In a subsequent or alternative preferred embodiment, filtered water is used to produce the plaster. In a further embodiment, an industrial water filter NW320 is used to filter the water. This prevents substances dissolved in the water from impairing the quality of the plaster.

[0043] In a subsequent or alternative preferred embodiment, the method comprises continuously measuring the quantity of powdered plaster components in the storage unit using one or more sensors. Information about the quantity of powdered plaster components in the storage unit and their consumption enables better prediction of future plastering operations and potential clogging problems in the storage unit. This improves the overall efficiency of the plastering operations.

[0044] In a subsequent or alternative preferred embodiment, the method involves sounding an alarm when the memory is nearly empty according to measurements. As mentioned earlier, the warning signal allows the mixing pump to be switched off in a timely manner, thus preventing damage to the pump and vehicle downtime due to repairs.

[0045] In a third aspect, the invention relates to the use of a vehicle according to claims 1 to 8 for transporting, among other things, plaster ingredients in powder form and water, for producing plaster and for pumping plaster.

[0046] The invention is described below by means of non-restrictive examples that illustrate the invention and are not intended to restrict the scope of protection of the invention or to be interpreted as such a restriction. EXAMPLE D

[0047] In a non-limiting example of the present invention, the vehicle comprises four wheel axles 4, as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown. By using four wheel axles 4, the vehicle has sufficient capacity to transport the required quantity of cleaning ingredients in powder form and water for a day's work.

[0048] The vehicle includes a storage unit 1 for storing powdered components during transport and plastering. The plaster is mixed on the vehicle using two mixing pumps 3 located on either side of the vehicle at the wheel axles 4. This position places the mixing pumps 3 below the storage unit 1, where they are designed to receive the powdered plaster components. The powdered plaster components are guided by gravity and the narrowing shape of the storage unit 1. This narrowing shape is achieved by two diagonally opposite walls inclined at a 50-degree angle. Inside the storage unit 1, the powdered plaster components are separated into two parts in the lower section by a partition extending from the first diagonal wall to the second. Both parts further narrow via a funnel 6 to a 100 mm diameter injection pipe 2.The injection tube 2 and the funnel 6 can be connected via a Storz coupling, a Camlock coupling, or a Victaulic coupling, among other options. A butterfly valve opens or closes the injection tube 2 to regulate the flow. This butterfly valve can be manual or automatic. Alternative concepts include a slide valve, slide gate, diaphragm valve, or shut-off valve within the injection tube 2.

[0049] To prevent the plaster components in powder form from clumping inside the storage tank 1, which could cause the formation of bows or small holes, the four walls of the storage tank 1 are equipped with vibrating motors 8. These motors are designed to prevent clumping of the plaster components in powder form or to break up clumped plaster components by vibrating the walls of the storage tank 1. This also facilitates the flow of the plaster components in powder form to the mixing pump 3. In an alternative embodiment, four vibrating motors 8 are distributed across two or three of the four walls of the storage tank 1. To measure the quantity of plaster components in powder form in the storage tank 1, the storage tank 1 is equipped with a 42 V level sensor SG12. This makes it possible to predict fill levels during plastering operations and to detect any flow problems in a timely manner.Furthermore, storage room 1 is equipped with an entry point 7, allowing a person to enter storage room 1 for maintenance and repair.

[0050] The vehicle is also equipped with a water tank mounted in body 5. This water tank has a capacity of 2500 liters, which is sufficient for a full day of plastering. A water pump, also mounted in body 5, supplies the water to one or both mixing pumps 3. Using a water pressure booster pump AV 1000, installed in the mixing pumps 3, the water supply pressure to the mixing pump 3 is precisely regulated, ensuring the correct plaster consistency. Preferably, the water tank inlet, through which the tank is filled, is fitted with an industrial water filter NW320 to prevent components in the water from affecting the quality of the plaster produced.

[0051] The body box 5 contains a generator and power distribution unit to supply power to the electrical components on the vehicle. Preferably, the body box 5 includes a central control system for controlling, among other things, the vibrator motors 8, butterfly valves, mixing pumps 3, and water pumps, so that all vehicle functions can be controlled automatically or from the driver's cab. In a further or alternative embodiment, a control panel is provided on one side of the vehicle, allowing personnel to operate the vehicle functions without having to be in the cab, thus improving operator comfort during plastering operations.

[0052] The outlet of mixing pump 3 is equipped with a hose that extends to the plastering area. This hose is preferably at least 15 meters long. 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] EP 2952312B

[0009]

Claims

[1] Vehicle with one or more wheel axles for transporting plaster components and for producing and pumping plaster, comprising: - at least one storage container for plaster components in powder form, - at least one pump suitable for pumping powdered plaster ingredients to one end, the pump being connected to the storage tank and designed to take the powdered plaster ingredients from the storage tank and pump them out, - at least one generator for driving, among other things, the pump; wherein the vehicle includes one or more water tanks, and the pump is a mixing pump, the mixing pump being connected to at least one of the water tanks and designed to mix powdered cleaning ingredients from the storage tank with water from at least one of the water tanks during pumping, characterized bythat the mixing pump is located below the storage tank, wherein the mixing pump is positioned at the level of one of the wheel axles of the vehicle and the vehicle includes a pump suitable for supplying water from at least one of the water tanks to the mixing pump under constant pressure, wherein the storage tank has a shape that narrows towards the bottom and terminates in an outlet that is directly connected to the mixing pump. [2] Vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is equipped with a vibrating device suitable for vibrating the storage unit. [3] Vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the storage device is equipped with one or more sensors designed to register the fill level of the storage device. [4] Vehicle according to claim 3, further comprising an alarm system designed to indicate an alarm condition when one or more sensors register a fill level below a specified threshold. [5] Vehicle according to claim 3 or 4, wherein one or more sensors in the memory are connected to the mixing pump, wherein the communication is suitable for switching off the mixing pump when one or more sensors register a fill level below a specified threshold. [6] Use of a vehicle according to claims 1 to 5 for transporting plaster ingredients and for producing and pumping plaster.

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