Vacuum pump and vacuum sanitary system

Abstract

This invention relates to a vacuum pump (1) for pumping a wastewater flow in a vacuum sanitary system (2). The pump (1) comprises: a pump body (10) configured to be fluidically connected to the vacuum sanitary system (2) and comprising a pump shaft (11) extending along a first longitudinal axis (A), a rotor (12) coupled to the pump shaft (11) and a pumping chamber (13) configured to house the rotor (12) and at least one portion of the pump shaft (11); a motor unit (14) comprising a motor shaft (15) extending along a second longitudinal axis (B); and a joint (16) configured to operatively couple the pump shaft (11) to the motor shaft (15) such that the motor shaft (15) transmits a rotary motion to the pump shaft (11).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102024000024036 filed on October 28, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL SECTOR

[0002] This invention relates to a vacuum pump, in particular for pumping a wastewater flow in a vacuum sanitary system.

[0003] This invention also relates to a vacuum sanitary system for suctioning a wastewater flow.PRIOR ART

[0004] As is well known, in the nautical / naval sector and, more generally, in the transport sector, vacuum sanitary systems are normally used, which comprise multiple so-called "vacuum" toilets connected to a discharge circuit equipped with at least one vacuum pump.

[0005] In particular, a vacuum sanitary system uses the pressure difference created by the vacuum pump to dispose of wastewater from individual toilets to a discharge circuit or storage tank.

[0006] Vacuum sanitary systems generally comprise several vacuum pumps arranged in parallel for safety reasons. The redundancy of the pumps actually ensures that the vacuum sanitary system can operate even if one of the vacuum pumps fails.

[0007] It is clear, therefore, that the cost of a single vacuum pump can have a major impact on the overall cost of the system.

[0008] One purpose of this invention is, therefore, to provide a vacuum pump that is simple and inexpensive to build.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to the invention, this purpose is achieved with a vacuum pump for pumping a wastewater flow comprising: a pump body configured to be fluidically connected to a vacuum sanitary system and comprising: a pump shaft extending along a first longitudinal axis; a rotor coupled to the pump shaft; and a pumping chamber configured to house the rotor and the pump shaft; a motor unit comprising a motor shaft extending along a second longitudinal axis; and a joint configured to operationally couple the pump shaft to the motor shaft so that the motor shaft transmits a rotary motion to the pump shaft.

[0010] Thanks to the joint, any type of motor unit can be coupled to the vacuum pump, for example electric motors of different sizes / types / classes or having different power ratings.

[0011] Thus, the pump according to this invention comprises a "universal" pump body (that is, adaptable to different sizes and / or types and / or classes and / or electric motor power ratings). This leads to a significant reduction in pump manufacturing costs and a flexibility of use unattained by currently known pumps until now.

[0012] Thanks to these features, it is actually possible to stock pump bodies that can be used for different types and / or sizes and / or motor classes.

[0013] Firstly, stock management of this type can respond quickly to any requirement, because the stock pump body can be coupled to the motors immediately available on the market.

[0014] Secondly, the flexibility of coupling to any type of motor also enables its adaptability to differently priced motors according to customer and system requirements.

[0015] Consequently, the flexibility and cost reduction of the pump are also reflected in the implementation of the vacuum sanitary system.

[0016] Another purpose of this invention is therefore to provide a vacuum sanitary system that is simple and inexpensive to build as claimed in claim 15.

[0017] The dependent claims define particular embodiments of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] For a better understanding of this invention, a preferred embodiment is described below by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 schematically illustrates a vacuum sanitary system according to one embodiment of this invention with parts removed for clarity; Figure 2 illustrates in perspective view a vacuum pump according to one embodiment of this invention with parts removed for clarity; Figure 3 illustrates a side cross section of the vacuum pump in Figure 1, with parts removed for clarity; and Figure 4 shows a first detail of the vacuum pump in Figure 1 in an exploded perspective view with parts removed for clarity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] In Figure 1, a vacuum pump configured to pump a wastewater flow in a vacuum sanitary system 2 is denoted with reference number 1.

[0020] The vacuum sanitary system 2 is, for example, a vacuum sanitary system in use on a ship.

[0021] It is understood that the vacuum sanitary system 2 according to this invention may also find application in another context, for example in trains, airplanes, or at home.

[0022] The vacuum sanitary system 2 comprises: at least one vacuum toilet 3 (in the example shown in Figure 1, there are four vacuum toilets 3); a storage tank 4 possibly connected or selectively connectable to a sewage or purification system (not illustrated for simplicity); a discharge circuit 5 configured to connect the at least one vacuum toilet 3 to the storage tank 4 and comprising at least one vacuum pump 1.

[0023] A variant not illustrated provides that the discharge circuit 5 is directly connected to the sewage or purification system.

[0024] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the discharge circuit 5 of the vacuum sanitary system 2 comprises two vacuum pumps 1 arranged in parallel.

[0025] Advantageously, having arranged two vacuum pumps 1 in parallel, in the event of the failure or malfunction of one of the two pumps 1, the remaining functioning pump 1 will continue to operate, compensating for the failure and keeping the entire vacuum sanitary system 2 running.

[0026] Each vacuum toilet 3 comprises: at least one collecting bowl 6 configured to collect a wastewater flow; at least one flush duct 7 configured to connect the at least one collecting bowl 6 to a water supply source 8 (schematically shown); at least one discharge duct 9 configured to fluidically connect the at least one collecting bowl 6 to the discharge circuit 5.

[0027] In use, the wastewater flows from each collecting bowl 6 to the corresponding discharge duct 9 and then into the discharge circuit 5.

[0028] The vacuum pumps 1 in the discharge circuit 5 will ensure the transport of the wastewater flow to the storage tank 4.

[0029] With reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3, the pump 1 comprises: a pump body 10 configured to be fluidically connected to the vacuum sanitary system 2 and comprising: a pump shaft 11 extending along a first longitudinal axis A; a rotor 12 coupled to the pump shaft 11; a pumping chamber 13 configured to house the rotor 12 and at least a portion of the pump shaft 11; a motor unit 14 comprising a motor shaft 15 extending along a second longitudinal axis B; and a joint 16 configured to operationally couple the pump shaft 11 to the motor shaft 15 such that the motor shaft 15 transmits a rotary motion to the pump shaft 11.

[0030] The pumping chamber 13, fluidically connected to the vacuum sanitary system 2, is preferably shaped to have a hollow cylindrical form and comprises a rotating helical screw.

[0031] In particular, the rotor 12 is configured to create a vacuum by progressive compression of liquid trapped between the threads of the helical screw.

[0032] According to a variant not shown, the pumping chamber is produced in a modular form, by means of a cylindrical body sized so as to allow the adoption of screw impellers of variable length and differentiated pitch.

[0033] As an example, the pumping chamber, in particular the cylindrical body, comprises at least two cylindrical elements coupled together, preferably of different thicknesses in the longitudinal direction.

[0034] This modularity allows the pump to be adapted to different motor sizes, improving fluid-dynamic performance without modifying the other parts of the pump body. It is actually sufficient to only adjust the sizing of the pumping chamber to obtain an increase in the suctioning capacity and delivery pressure, while keeping the general configuration of the system unchanged.

[0035] The vacuum sanitary system 2 and the pumping chamber 13 are, preferably, fluidically connected via a collection chamber 17 and a pressure chamber 18. The collection chamber 17, pressure chamber 18 and pumping chamber 13 are defined by the pump body 10.

[0036] In particular, the collection chamber 17 is configured to collect the wastewater flow from an inlet duct 19 of the vacuum sanitary system 2 and is fluidically connected to the pumping chamber 13.

[0037] In particular, as illustrated in Figure 1, the inlet duct 19 is part of the discharge circuit 5 of the vacuum sanitary system 2.

[0038] In particular, the collection chamber 17 comprises an inlet element 20, for example a hollow cylindrical element, configured to define an inlet port of the collection chamber 17 to which the inlet duct 19 of the vacuum sanitary system 2 is coupled in use. Specifically, the inlet element 20 is provided with a check valve 21 configured to open or close on the basis of a thrust pressure exerted by the wastewater flow from the inlet duct 19 and prevent the wastewater flow from returning to the inlet duct 19. The inlet element 20 is preferably provided with a first free end 22 that can be coupled to the inlet duct 19 and a second end 23 opposite the first end 22 and facing into the volume defined by the collection chamber 17.

[0039] In other words, the inlet element 20 extends within the collection chamber 17 for a certain length so that the incoming wastewater flow essentially enters the centre of the collection chamber 17. In this way, the technical effect of having a hydraulic head inside the collection chamber 17 is achieved; this allows a rapid start of the suctioning of the wastewater flow into the pumping chamber 13.

[0040] The check valve 21 is preferably defined by a movable flap hinged to the second end 23 of the inlet element 20 facing into the collection chamber 17. In use, if there is no wastewater flow, the check valve 21 is in a closed configuration while, if there is a wastewater flow from the inlet duct 19 at a pressure above a threshold, the check valve 21 opens.

[0041] The pressure chamber 18 is connected to an outlet duct 24 of the vacuum sanitary system 2. In particular, as illustrated in Figure 1, the outlet duct 24 is part of the discharge circuit 5 of the vacuum sanitary system 2.

[0042] Specifically, in the pressure chamber 18, the internal pressure falls below the atmospheric pressure, thus generating an internal vacuum in the pump body 10 and favouring the outflow of the wastewater flow towards the outlet duct 24.

[0043] Conveniently, the pump body 10 comprises a first partition 25 arranged between the pressure chamber 18 and the pumping chamber 13.

[0044] Even more conveniently, the pump body 10 comprises a second partition 26 opposite the first partition 25 and arranged between the collection chamber 17 and the pumping chamber 13.

[0045] Conveniently, the motor unit 14 comprises an electric motor, for example a three-phase asynchronous electric motor or a permanent magnet electric motor.

[0046] The motor unit 14 is preferably configured to have a power within a range between 1 kW and 20 kW.

[0047] It is understood that this description is not limited to a motor unit 14 comprising an electric motor having a power within a range between 1 kW and 20 kW, but may comprise other types of motors having different power ranges and / or sizes.

[0048] According to the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the pump shaft 11 and motor shaft 15 are coaxial and the joint 16 is a rigid one.

[0049] According to an alternative, non-illustrated embodiment, the pump shaft 11 and the motor shaft 15 are not coaxial and the joint 16 is configured to compensate for this lack of alignment.

[0050] The joint 16 shown is preferably configured to define an interference fit with the pump shaft 11 and the motor shaft 15. In other words, either the motor shaft 15 or the joint 16 has a protrusion, while the other of either the motor shaft 15 or the joint 16 has a housing for the protrusion. In this way, the rotation of the motor shaft 15 drives the joint 16.

[0051] Similarly, either the pump shaft 11 or the joint 16 has a protrusion, while the other of either the pump shaft 11 or the joint 16 has a housing for the protrusion. In this way, the rotation of the joint 16 drives the pump shaft 11.

[0052] It is understood that this description is not limited to a rigid joint, but the joint 16 may comprise other, different types of joints not mentioned in the description.

[0053] Conveniently, the pump body 10 comprises a maceration unit 27 configured to macerate any solid residue contained in the wastewater flow.

[0054] In particular, the maceration unit 27 comprises a rotating element 28 coupled to the pump shaft 11 and an annular housing 29 provided in the pump body 10.

[0055] The rotating element 28 preferably comprises at least one cutting element, for example a blade.

[0056] The annular housing 29 preferably has a hollow cylindrical shape and is configured to accommodate the rotating element 28.

[0057] In the non-limiting example described herein and not illustrated, the rotating element 28 is coupled to one end of the pump shaft 11 and the annular housing 29 is formed in the second partition 26 separating the pumping chamber 13 and the collection chamber 17.

[0058] The annular housing 29 is preferably provided with a fixed annular element 45 and preferably provided with one or more protrusions 46 projecting into the collection chamber 17 and / or the pumping chamber 13. The protrusions 46 are preferably axial (that is, they extend along the axis A).

[0059] In this way, the maceration unit 27 comprises a rotating part facing the collection chamber 17 (the rotating element 28) and a fixed part housed in the annular housing 29 (the fixed annular element 45), which contribute to the maceration. This configuration allows efficient maceration of solids, improving performance even with variable flows.

[0060] The rotating element 28 is preferably coupled to the end of the pump shaft 11 by means of a connecting device 30, for example a screw.

[0061] Advantageously, the positioning of the inlet element 20 extending within the collection chamber 17 for a given length ensures that the incoming wastewater flow essentially enters the middle of the collection chamber 17 by positioning the wastewater flow essentially in front of the maceration unit 27 (and not from above as is often the case in prior art solutions). In addition, the inlet element 20 can preferably swivel through 360°, allowing direct alignment with the maceration unit 27, improving maceration efficiency.

[0062] In use, when the wastewater flow passes through the maceration unit 27, the blade of the rotating element 28 cooperates with an inner surface of the annular housing 29 to macerate / break up / crush the solid residue contained in the wastewater flow.

[0063] Conveniently, the pump 1 comprises a casing 31 configured to accommodate the joint 16. The casing 31 preferably comprises two joint 16 access openings diametrically opposite the longitudinal axis B of the motor shaft 15 (in Figures 2 and 3, the longitudinal axis B coincides with the longitudinal axis A of the pump shaft 11).

[0064] In particular, the casing 31 comprises a motor end 32 coupled to the motor unit 14 and a pump end 33 coupled to the pump body 10.

[0065] According to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the casing 31 comprises at least one access opening 34 to the joint 16. In particular, the access opening 34 is configured to allow an operator to easily access to the joint 16 and work directly on the joint 16 itself without having to dismantle other components of the pump 1. Advantageously, the access opening 34 allows efficient maintenance work to be carried out quickly, such as replacing the motor unit 14.

[0066] The motor end 32 of the casing 31 preferably comprises a coupling element 35 for coupling the casing 31 to the motor unit 14. In particular, the coupling element 35 comprises a flange.

[0067] Advantageously, the pump body 10 comprises an opening door 36.

[0068] As shown in Figure 4, the opening door 36 comprises a first coupling element 37 for coupling to the pump body 10, a sealing element 38, a closing element 39 and a second coupling element 40.

[0069] The closing element 39 is preferably arranged between the first coupling element 37 and the second coupling element 40, which can be coupled together. In other words, the first coupling element 37 and the second coupling element 40 define a locking vice of the closing element 39. The sealing element 38 is arranged between the first coupling element 37 and the closing element 39 to prevent liquid from escaping from the pump body 10. The closing element 39 is preferably made of a transparent material, for example plexiglass. Even more preferably, the closing element 39 is provided, on the surface facing the first coupling element 37, with a perimeter housing for the sealing element 38.

[0070] Conveniently, the closing element 39 is fixed to the second coupling element 40 by means of fastening devices 41, for example screws and / or bolts.

[0071] The opening door 36 preferably comprises a snap-open or quick-release opening system.

[0072] In the example shown, the first coupling element 37 and the second coupling element 40 are coupled together by at least one quick-coupling device 42, for example a release lever.

[0073] In particular, by means of the quick-coupling device 42, the first coupling element 37 is coupled to the assembly defined by the sealing element 38, the closing element 39 and the second coupling element 40.

[0074] The first coupling element 37 is fixed integrally to the pump body 10, for example by means of dedicated fastening systems 43, for example screws and bolts.

[0075] The opening door 36 is preferably positioned on a wall 44 of the pump body 10 so as to face into the collection chamber 17 and allow an operator to access the collection chamber 17 from the outside through the opening door 36. The wall 44 of the pump body 10 is preferably a wall opposite the second partition 26.

[0076] The collection chamber 17 is preferably sized so that the inlet element 20 or a part thereof (for example, the check valve 21 only) can be disassembled by means of access through the opening door 36 without resorting to disassembly of other parts (for example, without requiring decoupling from the inlet duct 19 of the vacuum sanitary system 2).

[0077] In this way, the collection chamber 17 and, thus, the pump body 10 can be easily accessed by simply releasing the quick-coupling device 42 without further disassembly of other pump 1 components. In other words, the operator, by releasing the quick-coupling device 42, is able to remove the assembly defined by the sealing element 38, the closing element 39 and the second coupling element 40, so as to access the pump body 10 through the first coupling element 37.

[0078] In this way, the operator can directly access the various elements of the pump body 10, for example the check valve 21 inside the collection chamber 17 or the maceration unit 27 in the event that the latter requires maintenance, for example due to a blockage.

[0079] Advantageously, the operator can easily access the pump body 10 reducing the time and cost of intervention in the event of maintenance or malfunction of the pump 1 itself.

[0080] Specifically, by reducing the above-mentioned intervention times and costs, the service interruption times of the vacuum sanitary system 2 are also reduced in the event of a malfunction of all the pumps 1 in the system or only one pump 1 (if there is no redundancy).

[0081] In use, the wastewater flows from the collecting bowl 6, passes through the discharge duct 9, flows into the discharge circuit 5 and enters the inlet duct 19 of the vacuum pump 1.

[0082] Specifically, the wastewater flow enters the collection chamber 17, passes through the inlet element 20 and the check valve 21.

[0083] Then, by means of the application of the vacuum by the rotor 12 and the pressure chamber 18, the wastewater flow passes through the maceration unit 27 so that the latter can macerate any solid residues, for example plastic, paper, etc., contained in the wastewater flow.

[0084] At this point, the wastewater flow passes through the pumping chamber 13, the pressure chamber 18 and flows through the outlet duct 24 towards the storage tank 4.

[0085] Finally, it is clear that the vacuum pump 1 and the vacuum sanitary system 2 according to this invention can be modified, and variations can be made thereof, without, however, departing from the scope of protection as set forth in the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0019]In Figure 1, a vacuum pump configured to pump a wastewater flow in a vacuum sanitary system 2 is denoted with reference number 1.

[0020]The vacuum sanitary system 2 is, for example, a vacuum sanitary system in use on a ship.

[0021]It is understood that the vacuum sanitary system 2 according to this invention may also find application in another context, for example in trains, airplanes, or at home.

[0022]The vacuum sanitary system 2 comprises:

at least one vacuum toilet 3 (in the example shown in Figure 1, there are four vacuum toilets 3); a storage tank 4 possibly connected or selectively connectable to a sewage or purification system (not illustrated for simplicity); a discharge circuit 5 configured to connect the at least one vacuum toilet 3 to the storage tank 4 and comprising at least one vacuum pump 1.

[0023]A variant not illustrated provides that the discharge circuit 5 is directly connected to the sewage or purification system.

[0024]According to the embodiment shown in F...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority from Italian patent application no. 102024000024036 filed on October 28, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL SECTOR

[0002] This invention relates to a vacuum pump, in particular for pumping a wastewater flow in a vacuum sanitary system.

[0003] This invention also relates to a vacuum sanitary system for suctioning a wastewater flow.PRIOR ART

[0004] As is well known, in the nautical / naval sector and, more generally, in the transport sector, vacuum sanitary systems are normally used, which comprise multiple so-called "vacuum" toilets connected to a discharge circuit equipped with at least one vacuum pump.

[0005] In particular, a vacuum sanitary system uses the pressure difference created by the vacuum pump to dispose of wastewater from individual toilets to a discharge circuit or storage tank.

[0006] Vacuum sanitary systems generally comprise several vacuum pumps arranged in parallel for safety reasons. The redundancy of the pumps actually ensures that the vacuum sanitary system can operate even if one of the vacuum pumps fails.

[0007] It is clear, therefore, that the cost of a single vacuum pump can have a major impact on the overall cost of the system.

[0008] One purpose of this invention is, therefore, to provide a vacuum pump that is simple and inexpensive to build.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to the invention, this purpose is achieved with a vacuum pump for pumping a wastewater flow comprising: a pump body configured to be fluidically connected to a vacuum sanitary system and comprising: a pump shaft extending along a first longitudinal axis; a rotor coupled to the pump shaft; and a pumping chamber configured to house the rotor and the pump shaft; a motor unit comprising a motor shaft extending along a second longitudinal axis; and a joint configured to operationally couple the pump shaft to the motor shaft so that the motor shaft transmits a rotary motion to the pump shaft.

[0010] Thanks to the joint, any type of motor unit can be coupled to the vacuum pump, for example electric motors of different sizes / types / classes or having different power ratings.

[0011] Thus, the pump according to this invention comprises a "universal" pump body (that is, adaptable to different sizes and / or types and / or classes and / or electric motor power ratings). This leads to a significant reduction in pump manufacturing costs and a flexibility of use unattained by currently known pumps until now.

[0012] Thanks to these features, it is actually possible to stock pump bodies that can be used for different types and / or sizes and / or motor classes.

[0013] Firstly, stock management of this type can respond quickly to any requirement, because the stock pump body can be coupled to the motors immediately available on the market.

[0014] Secondly, the flexibility of coupling to any type of motor also enables its adaptability to differently priced motors according to customer and system requirements.

[0015] Consequently, the flexibility and cost reduction of the pump are also reflected in the implementation of the vacuum sanitary system.

[0016] Another purpose of this invention is therefore to provide a vacuum sanitary system that is simple and inexpensive to build as claimed in claim 15.

[0017] The dependent claims define particular embodiments of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] For a better understanding of this invention, a preferred embodiment is described below by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 schematically illustrates a vacuum sanitary system according to one embodiment of this invention with parts removed for clarity; Figure 2 illustrates in perspective view a vacuum pump according to one embodiment of this invention with parts removed for clarity; Figure 3 illustrates a side cross section of the vacuum pump in Figure 1, with parts removed for clarity; and Figure 4 shows a first detail of the vacuum pump in Figure 1 in an exploded perspective view with parts removed for clarity. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] In Figure 1, a vacuum pump configured to pump a wastewater flow in a vacuum sanitary system 2 is denoted with reference number 1.

[0020] The vacuum sanitary system 2 is, for example, a vacuum sanitary system in use on a ship.

[0021] It is understood that the vacuum sanitary system 2 according to this invention may also find application in another context, for example in trains, airplanes, or at home.

[0022] The vacuum sanitary system 2 comprises: at least one vacuum toilet 3 (in the example shown in Figure 1, there are four vacuum toilets 3); a storage tank 4 possibly connected or selectively connectable to a sewage or purification system (not illustrated for simplicity); a discharge circuit 5 configured to connect the at least one vacuum toilet 3 to the storage tank 4 and comprising at least one vacuum pump 1.

[0023] A variant not illustrated provides that the discharge circuit 5 is directly connected to the sewage or purification system.

[0024] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the discharge circuit 5 of the vacuum sanitary system 2 comprises two vacuum pumps 1 arranged in parallel.

[0025] Advantageously, having arranged two vacuum pumps 1 in parallel, in the event of the failure or malfunction of one of the two pumps 1, the remaining functioning pump 1 will continue to operate, compensating for the failure and keeping the entire vacuum sanitary system 2 running.

[0026] Each vacuum toilet 3 comprises: at least one collecting bowl 6 configured to collect a wastewater flow; at least one flush duct 7 configured to connect the at least one collecting bowl 6 to a water supply source 8 (schematically shown); at least one discharge duct 9 configured to fluidically connect the at least one collecting bowl 6 to the discharge circuit 5.

[0027] In use, the wastewater flows from each collecting bowl 6 to the corresponding discharge duct 9 and then into the discharge circuit 5.

[0028] The vacuum pumps 1 in the discharge circuit 5 will ensure the transport of the wastewater flow to the storage tank 4.

[0029] With reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3, the pump 1 comprises: a pump body 10 configured to be fluidically connected to the vacuum sanitary system 2 and comprising: a pump shaft 11 extending along a first longitudinal axis A; a rotor 12 coupled to the pump shaft 11; a pumping chamber 13 configured to house the rotor 12 and at least a portion of the pump shaft 11; a motor unit 14 comprising a motor shaft 15 extending along a second longitudinal axis B; and a joint 16 configured to operationally couple the pump shaft 11 to the motor shaft 15 such that the motor shaft 15 transmits a rotary motion to the pump shaft 11.

[0030] The pumping chamber 13, fluidically connected to the vacuum sanitary system 2, is preferably shaped to have a hollow cylindrical form and comprises a rotating helical screw.

[0031] In particular, the rotor 12 is configured to create a vacuum by progressive compression of liquid trapped between the threads of the helical screw.

[0032] According to a variant not shown, the pumping chamber is produced in a modular form, by means of a cylindrical body sized so as to allow the adoption of screw impellers of variable length and differentiated pitch.

[0033] As an example, the pumping chamber, in particular the cylindrical body, comprises at least two cylindrical elements coupled together, preferably of different thicknesses in the longitudinal direction.

[0034] This modularity allows the pump to be adapted to different motor sizes, improving fluid-dynamic performance without modifying the other parts of the pump body. It is actually sufficient to only adjust the sizing of the pumping chamber to obtain an increase in the suctioning capacity and delivery pressure, while keeping the general configuration of the system unchanged.

[0035] The vacuum sanitary system 2 and the pumping chamber 13 are, preferably, fluidically connected via a collection chamber 17 and a pressure chamber 18. The collection chamber 17, pressure chamber 18 and pumping chamber 13 are defined by the pump body 10.

[0036] In particular, the collection chamber 17 is configured to collect the wastewater flow from an inlet duct 19 of the vacuum sanitary system 2 and is fluidically connected to the pumping chamber 13.

[0037] In particular, as illustrated in Figure 1, the inlet duct 19 is part of the discharge circuit 5 of the vacuum sanitary system 2.

[0038] In particular, the collection chamber 17 comprises an inlet element 20, for example a hollow cylindrical element, configured to define an inlet port of the collection chamber 17 to which the inlet duct 19 of the vacuum sanitary system 2 is coupled in use. Specifically, the inlet element 20 is provided with a check valve 21 configured to open or close on the basis of a thrust pressure exerted by the wastewater flow from the inlet duct 19 and prevent the wastewater flow from returning to the inlet duct 19. The inlet element 20 is preferably provided with a first free end 22 that can be coupled to the inlet duct 19 and a second end 23 opposite the first end 22 and facing into the volume defined by the collection chamber 17.

[0039] In other words, the inlet element 20 extends within the collection chamber 17 for a certain length so that the incoming wastewater flow essentially enters the centre of the collection chamber 17. In this way, the technical effect of having a hydraulic head inside the collection chamber 17 is achieved; this allows a rapid start of the suctioning of the wastewater flow into the pumping chamber 13.

[0040] The check valve 21 is preferably defined by a movable flap hinged to the second end 23 of the inlet element 20 facing into the collection chamber 17. In use, if there is no wastewater flow, the check valve 21 is in a closed configuration while, if there is a wastewater flow from the inlet duct 19 at a pressure above a threshold, the check valve 21 opens.

[0041] The pressure chamber 18 is connected to an outlet duct 24 of the vacuum sanitary system 2. In particular, as illustrated in Figure 1, the outlet duct 24 is part of the discharge circuit 5 of the vacuum sanitary system 2.

[0042] Specifically, in the pressure chamber 18, the internal pressure falls below the atmospheric pressure, thus generating an internal vacuum in the pump body 10 and favouring the outflow of the wastewater flow towards the outlet duct 24.

[0043] Conveniently, the pump body 10 comprises a first partition 25 arranged between the pressure chamber 18 and the pumping chamber 13.

[0044] Even more conveniently, the pump body 10 comprises a second partition 26 opposite the first partition 25 and arranged between the collection chamber 17 and the pumping chamber 13.

[0045] Conveniently, the motor unit 14 comprises an electric motor, for example a three-phase asynchronous electric motor or a permanent magnet electric motor.

[0046] The motor unit 14 is preferably configured to have a power within a range between 1 kW and 20 kW.

[0047] It is understood that this description is not limited to a motor unit 14 comprising an electric motor having a power within a range between 1 kW and 20 kW, but may comprise other types of motors having different power ranges and / or sizes.

[0048] According to the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the pump shaft 11 and motor shaft 15 are coaxial and the joint 16 is a rigid one.

[0049] According to an alternative, non-illustrated embodiment, the pump shaft 11 and the motor shaft 15 are not coaxial and the joint 16 is configured to compensate for this lack of alignment.

[0050] The joint 16 shown is preferably configured to define an interference fit with the pump shaft 11 and the motor shaft 15. In other words, either the motor shaft 15 or the joint 16 has a protrusion, while the other of either the motor shaft 15 or the joint 16 has a housing for the protrusion. In this way, the rotation of the motor shaft 15 drives the joint 16.

[0051] Similarly, either the pump shaft 11 or the joint 16 has a protrusion, while the other of either the pump shaft 11 or the joint 16 has a housing for the protrusion. In this way, the rotation of the joint 16 drives the pump shaft 11.

[0052] It is understood that this description is not limited to a rigid joint, but the joint 16 may comprise other, different types of joints not mentioned in the description.

[0053] Conveniently, the pump body 10 comprises a maceration unit 27 configured to macerate any solid residue contained in the wastewater flow.

[0054] In particular, the maceration unit 27 comprises a rotating element 28 coupled to the pump shaft 11 and an annular housing 29 provided in the pump body 10.

[0055] The rotating element 28 preferably comprises at least one cutting element, for example a blade.

[0056] The annular housing 29 preferably has a hollow cylindrical shape and is configured to accommodate the rotating element 28.

[0057] In the non-limiting example described herein and not illustrated, the rotating element 28 is coupled to one end of the pump shaft 11 and the annular housing 29 is formed in the second partition 26 separating the pumping chamber 13 and the collection chamber 17.

[0058] The annular housing 29 is preferably provided with a fixed annular element 45 and preferably provided with one or more protrusions 46 projecting into the collection chamber 17 and / or the pumping chamber 13. The protrusions 46 are preferably axial (that is, they extend along the axis A).

[0059] In this way, the maceration unit 27 comprises a rotating part facing the collection chamber 17 (the rotating element 28) and a fixed part housed in the annular housing 29 (the fixed annular element 45), which contribute to the maceration. This configuration allows efficient maceration of solids, improving performance even with variable flows.

[0060] The rotating element 28 is preferably coupled to the end of the pump shaft 11 by means of a connecting device 30, for example a screw.

[0061] Advantageously, the positioning of the inlet element 20 extending within the collection chamber 17 for a given length ensures that the incoming wastewater flow essentially enters the middle of the collection chamber 17 by positioning the wastewater flow essentially in front of the maceration unit 27 (and not from above as is often the case in prior art solutions). In addition, the inlet element 20 can preferably swivel through 360°, allowing direct alignment with the maceration unit 27, improving maceration efficiency.

[0062] In use, when the wastewater flow passes through the maceration unit 27, the blade of the rotating element 28 cooperates with an inner surface of the annular housing 29 to macerate / break up / crush the solid residue contained in the wastewater flow.

[0063] Conveniently, the pump 1 comprises a casing 31 configured to accommodate the joint 16. The casing 31 preferably comprises two joint 16 access openings diametrically opposite the longitudinal axis B of the motor shaft 15 (in Figures 2 and 3, the longitudinal axis B coincides with the longitudinal axis A of the pump shaft 11).

[0064] In particular, the casing 31 comprises a motor end 32 coupled to the motor unit 14 and a pump end 33 coupled to the pump body 10.

[0065] According to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the casing 31 comprises at least one access opening 34 to the joint 16. In particular, the access opening 34 is configured to allow an operator to easily access to the joint 16 and work directly on the joint 16 itself without having to dismantle other components of the pump 1. Advantageously, the access opening 34 allows efficient maintenance work to be carried out quickly, such as replacing the motor unit 14.

[0066] The motor end 32 of the casing 31 preferably comprises a coupling element 35 for coupling the casing 31 to the motor unit 14. In particular, the coupling element 35 comprises a flange.

[0067] Advantageously, the pump body 10 comprises an opening door 36.

[0068] As shown in Figure 4, the opening door 36 comprises a first coupling element 37 for coupling to the pump body 10, a sealing element 38, a closing element 39 and a second coupling element 40.

[0069] The closing element 39 is preferably arranged between the first coupling element 37 and the second coupling element 40, which can be coupled together. In other words, the first coupling element 37 and the second coupling element 40 define a locking vice of the closing element 39. The sealing element 38 is arranged between the first coupling element 37 and the closing element 39 to prevent liquid from escaping from the pump body 10. The closing element 39 is preferably made of a transparent material, for example plexiglass. Even more preferably, the closing element 39 is provided, on the surface facing the first coupling element 37, with a perimeter housing for the sealing element 38.

[0070] Conveniently, the closing element 39 is fixed to the second coupling element 40 by means of fastening devices 41, for example screws and / or bolts.

[0071] The opening door 36 preferably comprises a snap-open or quick-release opening system.

[0072] In the example shown, the first coupling element 37 and the second coupling element 40 are coupled together by at least one quick-coupling device 42, for example a release lever.

[0073] In particular, by means of the quick-coupling device 42, the first coupling element 37 is coupled to the assembly defined by the sealing element 38, the closing element 39 and the second coupling element 40.

[0074] The first coupling element 37 is fixed integrally to the pump body 10, for example by means of dedicated fastening systems 43, for example screws and bolts.

[0075] The opening door 36 is preferably positioned on a wall 44 of the pump body 10 so as to face into the collection chamber 17 and allow an operator to access the collection chamber 17 from the outside through the opening door 36. The wall 44 of the pump body 10 is preferably a wall opposite the second partition 26.

[0076] The collection chamber 17 is preferably sized so that the inlet element 20 or a part thereof (for example, the check valve 21 only) can be disassembled by means of access through the opening door 36 without resorting to disassembly of other parts (for example, without requiring decoupling from the inlet duct 19 of the vacuum sanitary system 2).

[0077] In this way, the collection chamber 17 and, thus, the pump body 10 can be easily accessed by simply releasing the quick-coupling device 42 without further disassembly of other pump 1 components. In other words, the operator, by releasing the quick-coupling device 42, is able to remove the assembly defined by the sealing element 38, the closing element 39 and the second coupling element 40, so as to access the pump body 10 through the first coupling element 37.

[0078] In this way, the operator can directly access the various elements of the pump body 10, for example the check valve 21 inside the collection chamber 17 or the maceration unit 27 in the event that the latter requires maintenance, for example due to a blockage.

[0079] Advantageously, the operator can easily access the pump body 10 reducing the time and cost of intervention in the event of maintenance or malfunction of the pump 1 itself.

[0080] Specifically, by reducing the above-mentioned intervention times and costs, the service interruption times of the vacuum sanitary system 2 are also reduced in the event of a malfunction of all the pumps 1 in the system or only one pump 1 (if there is no redundancy).

[0081] In use, the wastewater flows from the collecting bowl 6, passes through the discharge duct 9, flows into the discharge circuit 5 and enters the inlet duct 19 of the vacuum pump 1.

[0082] Specifically, the wastewater flow enters the collection chamber 17, passes through the inlet element 20 and the check valve 21.

[0083] Then, by means of the application of the vacuum by the rotor 12 and the pressure chamber 18, the wastewater flow passes through the maceration unit 27 so that the latter can macerate any solid residues, for example plastic, paper, etc., contained in the wastewater flow.

[0084] At this point, the wastewater flow passes through the pumping chamber 13, the pressure chamber 18 and flows through the outlet duct 24 towards the storage tank 4.

[0085] Finally, it is clear that the vacuum pump 1 and the vacuum sanitary system 2 according to this invention can be modified, and variations can be made thereof, without, however, departing from the scope of protection as set forth in the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0019]In Figure 1, a vacuum pump configured to pump a wastewater flow in a vacuum sanitary system 2 is denoted with reference number 1.

[0020]The vacuum sanitary system 2 is, for example, a vacuum sanitary system in use on a ship.

[0021]It is understood that the vacuum sanitary system 2 according to this invention may also find application in another context, for example in trains, airplanes, or at home.

[0022]The vacuum sanitary system 2 comprises:

at least one vacuum toilet 3 (in the example shown in Figure 1, there are four vacuum toilets 3); a storage tank 4 possibly connected or selectively connectable to a sewage or purification system (not illustrated for simplicity); a discharge circuit 5 configured to connect the at least one vacuum toilet 3 to the storage tank 4 and comprising at least one vacuum pump 1.

[0023]A variant not illustrated provides that the discharge circuit 5 is directly connected to the sewage or purification system.

[0024]According to the embodiment shown in F...

Claims

1. A vacuum pump (1) for pumping a wastewater flow in a vacuum sanitary system (2); the pump (1) comprising: • a pump body (10) configured to be fluidically connected to the vacuum sanitary system (2) and comprising: - a pump shaft (11) extending along a first longitudinal axis (A); - a rotor (12) coupled to the pump shaft (11); and - a pumping chamber (13) configured to house the rotor (12) and at least a portion of the pump shaft (11); • a motor unit (14) comprising a motor shaft (15) extending along a second longitudinal axis (B); and • a joint (16) configured to operatively couple the pump shaft (11) to the motor shaft (15) such that the motor shaft (15) transmits a rotary motion to the pump shaft (11).

2. The pump according to claim 1, wherein the pump body (10) comprises a maceration unit (27) configured to macerate any solid residue contained in the wastewater flow.

3. The pump according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a casing (31) configured to house the joint (16).

4. The pump according to claim 3, wherein the casing (31) comprises a motor end (32) coupled to the motor unit (14) and a pump end (33) coupled to the pump body (10).

5. The pump according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump shaft (11) and the motor shaft (15) are coaxial.

6. The pump according to any one of claims 3-5, wherein the motor end (32) of the casing (31) comprises a coupling element (35) for coupling the casing (31) to the motor unit (14).

7. The pump according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pump body (10) comprises a collection chamber (17) configured to collect the wastewater flow from an inlet duct (19) of a vacuum sanitary system (2); the collection chamber (17) comprising an inlet element (20) configured to define an inlet port of the collection chamber (17) to which, in use, an inlet duct (19) of the vacuum sanitary system (2) is coupled.

8. The pump according to claim 7, wherein the inlet element (20) extends within the collection chamber (17) for a certain length so that the incoming wastewater flow essentially enters the centre of the collection chamber (17).

9. The pump according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the pump body (10) comprises an opening door (36) positioned on a wall (44) of the pump body (10) so as to face into the collection chamber (17).

10. The pump according to claim 9, wherein the collection chamber (17) is sized so that the inlet element (20), or at least part thereof, can be disassembled by access through the opening door (36).

11. The pump according to any one of claims 7-10, wherein the inlet element (20) is provided with a check valve (21) configured to open or close on the basis of a thrust pressure exerted by the wastewater flow from the inlet duct (19) and prevent the wastewater flow from returning to the inlet duct (19); the collection chamber (17) being sized so that the check valve (21) can be disassembled.

12. The pump according to any one of claims 9-11, wherein the pump body (10) comprises a partition (26) arranged between the collection chamber (17) and the pumping chamber (13); the opening door (36) being positioned on a wall (44) opposite to the partition (26).

13. The pump according to any one of claims 9-12, wherein the opening door (36) comprises a snap-open or quick-release opening system.

14. The pump according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pumping chamber (13) is made to have a modular configuration.

15. A vacuum sanitary system (2) for the suction of a wastewater flow; the vacuum sanitary system (2) comprising: • at least one vacuum toilet (3); • a drain circuit (5) configured to connect the at least one vacuum toilet (3) to a storage tank (4) or to a sewage or purification system and comprising at least one vacuum pump (1) according to any of the preceding claims.

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