Product storage tank with horizontal drainage via a membrane, and vehicle, in particular a hydro-cleaner, provided with such a tank.

Abstract

- Product storage tank with horizontal drainage via a membrane, and vehicle, in particular a hydro-cleaner, provided with such a tank.- The tank (1) for storing products, in particular semi-liquid, pasty or powdery solid products, comprises a shell (2) provided with an opening (5) and a door (7) capable of closing this opening (5), a flexible membrane (9) impermeable to gases and liquids, intended to receive the products to be stored, said membrane (9) being provided with an opening (10), being arranged inside the tank (1) so that its opening (10) is at the level of the opening (5) of the shell (2), and being fixed along an annular fixing zone to the internal face of the shell (2) around its opening (10) so as to create a closed so-called free space (15), and a system (16) capable of generating a pressurization and a depression of this free space (15) as well as a depression of an internal space (11) of the membrane (9), rapid and complete emptying of the tank (1) being possible be carried out using said membrane (9) and said system (16).Figure for abstract: Fig. 1.

Description

Title of the invention: Product storage tank with horizontal drainage via a membrane, and vehicle, in particular a hydro-cleaner, provided with such a tank. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a product storage tank with horizontal emptying via a membrane, and a vehicle, in particular a hydro-cleaner, provided with such a tank. State of the art

[0002] The present invention applies to any type of tank (or cistern), mobile or fixed, which is intended for the storage of products and in particular semi-liquid products, pasty products or powdery solids.

[0003] Although not exclusively, the present invention applies more particularly to a tank of a waste collection vehicle, and in particular to a sanitation or industrial hydro-cleaner. A sanitation hydro-cleaner is intended, in particular, to carry out cleaning and pumping operations for wastewater networks and sanitation works, and an industrial hydro-cleaner is intended for cleaning work on industrial equipment and installations.

[0004] Generally, the emptying of a hydro-cleaner tank is carried out either by tilting the tank (or cistern) generally at 40°, or by means of a movable partition which is able to move in both directions, thanks to the generation of pressure on either side of the partition. However, each of these two usual solutions has drawbacks.

[0005] Document FR2107423 discloses a tank for storing products, which makes it possible to overcome the disadvantages of the usual solutions (tilting or movable partition). To do this, this tank (comprising a shell provided with an opening at a rear longitudinal end and a door capable of closing this opening) comprises, in particular: - a flexible membrane that is gas- and liquid-tight, intended to receive the products to be stored, said membrane being provided with an opening, being arranged inside the tank so that its opening is opposite the opening of the shell, and being fixed along an annular fixing zone to the internal face of the shell around its opening so as to create a so-called free, closed space between the membrane and the tank; and - a system for generating pressure and depression in the free space between the tank and the membrane.

[0006] The use of the flexible membrane makes it possible to obtain an efficient and lightweight emptying system, which overcomes the disadvantages of the usual solutions. In addition, the emptying of this tank can be carried out horizontally (without tilting), which reduces the risk of the carrier and its equipment overturning when emptying the tank on unstable ground.

[0007] To facilitate the pumping of products inside the membrane, a vacuum is created inside the membrane. To do this, the membrane is fixed at a distance from the rear of the shell, in order to allow access into the membrane to implement the vacuum.

[0008] Such an arrangement is not an optimal solution, because the tank is not completely emptied by turning over and removing the membrane. In addition, cleaning of the tank is not optimized.

[0009] One of the objectives of the present invention is to improve this membrane tank, in particular to overcome these drawbacks. Statement of the invention

[0010] The present invention relates to a tank for storing products, in particular semi-liquid, pasty or powdery solid products, said tank comprising: - a shell provided with a rear opening at a rear longitudinal end and a door capable of closing this opening; - a flexible membrane, impermeable to gases and liquids, intended to receive the products to be stored, said membrane being provided with an opening, being arranged inside the tank and being fixed along an annular fixing zone to the internal face of the shell so as to create a so-called closed free space, between the membrane and the tank; and - a system for generating a pressurization and a depression of the free space between the tank and the membrane, said system comprising a vacuum generator configured to generate a depression of an internal space inside the membrane, the membrane being configured to: - be able to be completely pressed against the internal face of the shell under the effect of a depression generated by said system; and - be able to be turned over and removed from the tank, through said open door, under the effect of pressure generated by said system.

[0011] According to the invention: - the tank is provided with a niche which is formed inside and at the rear of the shell, which is arranged between the shell and the membrane and which opens, through a rear outlet, at the rear opening of the shell; - the ferrule is provided with at least one through orifice opening into the interior of the niche, the vacuum generator being connected from the outside to said orifice; - the membrane is fixed to the rear longitudinal end of the ferrule so that its opening substantially coincides with the rear opening of the ferrule; and - a passage is formed from said orifice to the internal space of the membrane, via on the one hand the niche and on the other hand a space between the rear of the membrane and the door which is curved towards the rear, said passage allowing said vacuum generator to generate a depression of the internal space of the membrane with a view to pumping products into said membrane.

[0012] Thus, thanks to the use of the flexible membrane, an efficient and lightweight emptying system is obtained. In addition, the emptying of the tank can be carried out safely, quickly and horizontally (without tipping), which reduces the risk of the carrier and its equipment rolling over when emptying the tank on unstable ground.

[0013] Furthermore, thanks to the arrangement of the membrane at the rear end of the shell, the membrane can be completely removed when the free space is pressurized. Thus, all of the products that were stored in the membrane are evacuated when the membrane is turned over and (completely) removed from the tank, which allows the tank to be completely emptied and overcomes the aforementioned drawback.

[0014] Furthermore, the arrangement of the membrane at the rear end of the ferrule also allows: - to protect the entire ferrule; and - to be able to easily and completely rinse the membrane when it is turned over and completely removed.

[0015] Furthermore, thanks to the passage formed from said orifice in the shell (to which the vacuum generator is connected) to the internal space of the membrane, it is possible, despite the arrangement of the membrane at the rear end of the shell, to generate a depression of this internal space of the membrane with a view to pumping products into the membrane.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the niche has, at its rear outlet, a biconvex shape with two opposite convex surfaces of the same radius of curvature (i.e. two surfaces of the same shape and the same radius of curvature), so that the distance allocated to the fixing of the membrane (of circular cross-section) corresponds to the length of its perimeter, which in particular avoids the appearance of false folds in the membrane.

[0017] Advantageously, the niche is formed from at least one added part which is welded onto the internal face of the ferrule, which makes it easy to produce. In addition, advantageously, the niche is closed and watertight, except at its rear outlet. and the orifice.

[0018] Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, the tank comprises a suction pot which is fixed on the external wall of the shell around the orifice. In addition, advantageously, the suction pot is provided with an anti-overflow ball, which makes it possible to prevent products from being sucked towards the vacuum generator when the internal space of the membrane is depressurized during pumping of products.

[0019] In a particular embodiment: - the front face of the membrane is substantially flat; - the membrane has a length such that, when it is pressed against the internal face of the ferrule, its front end is located longitudinally at the level of the front end of the ferrule; and - the tank includes a front base which is curved towards the front.

[0020] Furthermore, advantageously, the tank comprises a pressure limiting device configured to be able to limit the pressure in the free space between the tank and the membrane.

[0021] Furthermore, advantageously, the tank comprises at least two support tubes, capable of being brought from a retracted position to an extended position towards the rear of the tank when the membrane is removed from the tank, and, in the extended position, the tubes are positioned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shell so as to be able to support the membrane during the pressure-vacuum movement.

[0022] In the context of the present invention, the membrane can be fixed in different ways to the internal face of the tank. However, in a preferred embodiment, the membrane is fixed by pinching between, on the one hand, at least one plate (in the form of a crown) fixed to the rear end of the tank on the internal face of the shell and on the niche, and on the other hand, at least one counter-plate. This makes it possible to easily, quickly and effectively fix the membrane on the tank.

[0023] Furthermore, advantageously, the membrane is made of a composite material (relatively thin) comprising different superimposed layers, formed respectively at least of a waterproof canvas (to air and condensation water), a fabric (providing the necessary mechanical resistance) and an antistatic skin (made of polytetrafluoroethylene), mechanically resistant to shocks and abrasion of solid waste and chemically resistant to attack by acids, bases, hydrocarbons, etc.

[0024] The present invention also relates to a vehicle, in particular a hydro-cleaner, which comprises at least one tank such as that described above.

[0025] The present invention also relates to several methods relating to the use of said tank.

[0026] Firstly, it comprises a method of filling the tank, said method of filling comprising at least the following steps, consisting of: - close the tank door; - generate a vacuum in the free space between the tank and the membrane, using the vacuum system, so as to press the membrane against the internal face of the tank; - generate a vacuum in the internal space using the vacuum generator so that atmospheric pressure pushes the products into this internal space, through a filling orifice, inside the membrane; and - when filling is complete, stop maintaining the depression in the internal space.

[0027] Secondly, it also comprises a method of emptying the tank, said emptying method comprising at least the following steps, consisting of: - open the tank door; - generate a pressurization of the free space between the tank and the membrane, using the pressurization system, so as to push the membrane back and move it, this movement causing a complete reversal of the membrane and an ejection of the products through the door in the open position; and - when emptying is complete, stop pressurizing the free space.

[0028] Thirdly, it further comprises a method of spinning products from the tank, said spinning method comprising at least the following steps, consisting of: - with the tank door closed, generate a pressurization of the free space between the tank and the membrane, using the pressurization system, so as to push the membrane back and move it, this movement compressing the products present in the tank so as to generate a separation of the juices which are evacuated through an evacuation (or draining or decanting) orifice which is open; and - when the spin cycle is complete, stop pressurizing the free space and close the drain opening. Brief description of the figures

[0029] The attached figures will make it clear how the invention can be implemented. In these figures, identical references designate similar elements.

[0030] [Fig.l] is a schematic sectional view of a product storage tank, in an open position.

[0031] [Fig.2] is a schematic sectional view of the product storage tank, in a closed position.

[0032] [Fig.3] is a view similar to that of [Fig.l], in an open position, with the membrane fully extended.

[0033] Figures 4A to 4C are schematic sectional views of a storage tank of products, illustrating different successive stages of movement of the membrane from a position pressed against the tank to a fully deployed position, during emptying of the tank.

[0034] [Fig.5] is a partial rear view of the shell of the tank, provided with a niche.

[0035] [Fig. 6] is a partial schematic view, in section, of an embodiment preferred for a flexible and waterproof membrane.

[0036] [Fig.7] is a plan view of an example of a hydro-cleaner provided in particular with a product storage tank.

[0037] [Fig.8] is a perspective view of an anti-overflow ball. Detailed description

[0038] The tank 1, illustrating the invention and shown schematically in [Fig.l], is intended to receive and store products, for example for transport. The tank 1 is suitable for storing various types of products. It is particularly suitable for storing products such as semi-liquid products, pasty products or powdery solids.

[0039] The tank 1 can be used in various applications, as specified below.

[0040] The tank 1 comprises, as shown in [Fig.l], a shell 2, that is to say a hollow cylindrical part, with a longitudinal axis XX. In the example shown, the shell 2 is made in the form of a straight cylinder. The shell of the tank may, however, have any other cylindrical shape within the scope of the present invention.

[0041] The ferrule 2 is closed by a bottom 3 at one longitudinal end called the front end 4 (along the longitudinal axis XX), and it is provided with an opening 5 at the other longitudinal end called the rear end 6. The terms “front” and “rear” are defined, in the following description, along the longitudinal axis XX, with “front” in the direction of an arrow F shown in Figures 1 and 2 and “rear” in the direction opposite to that of the arrow F.

[0042] Of course, within the framework of the present invention, the opening 5 could also be provided at the front end and the bottom 3 at the rear end of the tank.

[0043] Furthermore, the terms "internal" and "external" are defined relative to the longitudinal axis XX, with "external" moving away from the longitudinal axis XX, as illustrated by arrows G in Figures 1 and 2, and "internal" moving towards the longitudinal axis XX, in the opposite direction to that of the arrows G.

[0044] The tank 1 is arranged horizontally, that is to say it is arranged so that its longitudinal axis XX is substantially parallel to the horizontal illustrated by a double arrow H in Figures 1 and 2.

[0045] The vertical direction is illustrated by an arrow Z. The term “up” is defined in the direction of the arrow Z and the term “down” is defined in the opposite direction to that of the Z arrow.

[0046] The tank 1 further comprises a door 7 of the usual type, provided at the rear end 6 of the tank 1 and configured to be able to: - completely release the opening 5 in an open position PI as shown in [Fig.l]; and - close the opening 5 in a closed position P2 as shown in [Fig.2]

[0047] To do this, the door 7 is connected, by usual hinges 8 shown schematically, to the tank 1, and it comprises, for its operation, usual means not described further and not shown.

[0048] The shell 2, the bottom 3 and the door 7 of the tank 1 can be made of different metallic or composite materials, and in particular stainless steel.

[0049] The tank 1 further comprises a membrane 9 which is both flexible and gas and liquid-tight. This membrane 9 (with an internal face 9A) defines an internal space 11 (or storage space) intended to receive the storage products.

[0050] To do this, said membrane 9 is provided with an opening 10 (at the rear). The membrane 9 is a pocket (or envelope) completely closed except for the opening 10, and it is arranged inside the tank 1 so that this opening 10 is opposite the opening 5 of the shell 2, provided with the door 7.

[0051] The membrane 9 is fixed by its so-called open end 9C (at the level of the opening 10) on the internal face 12A of the shell 2 of the tank 1, all around its periphery, that is to say according to a fixing zone 27 of annular shape so as to create a so-called free space 15, closed, between the membrane 9 and the tank 1. The membrane 9 is fixed to the rear of the shell 2, so that its opening 10 substantially coincides with the opening 5 of the shell 2, that is to say that the two openings 5 ​​and 10 are located at the same position longitudinally (along the axis XX).

[0052] The membrane 9 is configured to: - be able to be completely pressed against the internal face 12A of the ferrule 2 under the effect of a depression generated by a system 16 as shown in [Fig.2]; and - be able to be turned over and removed from the tank 1, through the open door 7, under the effect of a pressurization generated by the system 16, as shown in [Fig.3].

[0053] Thus, thanks to the use of the flexible membrane 9, an efficient and lightweight emptying system is obtained. In addition, the emptying of the tank 1 can be carried out safely, quickly and horizontally (without tilting), which reduces the risk of the carrier and its equipment rolling over when emptying the tank on unstable ground.

[0054] Furthermore, thanks to the arrangement of the membrane 9 at the rear end of the ferrule 2, the membrane 9 can be completely removed when the free space 15 is pressurized. In addition, all of the products that were stored in the membrane 9 are evacuated when the membrane 9 is turned over and (completely) removed from the tank 1, as described below, which allows the tank 1 to be completely emptied.

[0055] The arrangement of the membrane 9 at the rear end of the ferrule 2 also allows: - to protect the entire shell 2; and - to be able to easily and completely rinse the membrane 9 when it is turned over and completely removed.

[0056] By way of non-limiting illustration, the membrane 9 has, for example, a thickness between 2 and 8 millimeters.

[0057] Furthermore, the tank 1 also comprises the system 16 for generating a pressurization or a depression of the free space 15 between the tank 1 and the membrane 9. In a particular embodiment, the system 16 comprises a compressed air generator 25 and a vacuum generator 26, as specified below.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the system 16 comprises a single piece of equipment which can implement both functions (pressurization and depression), namely either a vacuum pump which can be adapted to be used as a compressor, or a hydroejector which can produce a pressure of 500 grams.

[0059] In addition: - the tank 1 is provided with a niche 36 which is formed inside and at the rear of the shell 2, which is arranged between the shell 2 and the membrane 9 and which opens, via a rear outlet 37, at the rear opening 5 of the shell 2, as shown in figures 1 to 3; and - the ferrule 2 is provided with at least one orifice 38 passing through the wall of the ferrule 2, which opens inside the niche 36, the vacuum generator 26 being connected from the outside to said orifice 38 (via a suction pot 44, as specified below).

[0060] Thus, a passage 39 illustrated by an arrow J in [Fig.2] is formed from said orifice 38 (to which the vacuum generator 26 is linked) to the internal space 11 of the membrane 9, via on the one hand the niche 36 and on the other hand a space 40 between the rear of the membrane 9 and the door 7 which is curved (convex) towards the rear. This passage 39 allows said vacuum generator 26, despite the arrangement of the membrane 9 at the rear end of the shell 2, to have a path for generating a depression of the internal space 11 of the membrane 9 when pumping products into said membrane 9, in order to facilitate pumping.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the niche 36 has, at its rear outlet 37, a biconvex shape as shown in [Fig. 5]. This biconvex shape is consisting of two opposite convex surfaces 41 and 42 of the same radius of curvature, that is to say two surfaces 41 and 42 of the same shape and the same radius of curvature. The surface 41 corresponds to the internal surface of an arc of a circle of the shell 2 and the surface 42 corresponds to the external surface of an added part 43. These surfaces 41 and 42 have, in cross section, the same length. Thus, the distance allocated to the fixing of the membrane 9 (of circular cross section), at the rear of the shell 2, along the shell 2 and the niche 36, is equal to its perimeter, which avoids the appearance of false folds in the membrane 9 when it is fixed at its rear end and makes it possible to use a cylindrical membrane, simple to produce and of reduced cost.

[0062] Preferably, the niche 36 is formed from at least one insert 43 (Figures 1 to 3) which is welded to the internal face 12A of the ferrule 2, which makes it possible to produce the niche 36 easily and at low cost. In addition, the niche 36 is closed and sealed, except at its rear outlet 37 and the orifice 38.

[0063] Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, the tank 1 also comprises a suction pot 44. This suction pot 44, to which the vacuum generator 26 is connected, is fixed to the external wall 12B of the shell 2 around the orifice 38, as shown schematically in figs 1 to 3.

[0064] The suction pot 44 is provided with an anti-overflow ball 45 shown in [Fig. 8]. This anti-overflow ball 45 makes it possible to prevent products from being sucked towards the vacuum generator 26, when the internal space 11 of the membrane 9 is depressurized during pumping of products.

[0065] The anti-overflow ball 45 is mounted in a support 46. This support 46 comprises an upper ring 47, to which are connected four legs 48, distributed uniformly around the periphery of the ring 47 and fixed orthogonally to the latter. The legs 48 are each provided with a foot 49 curved inwards. These feet 49 make it possible to retain the anti-overflow ball 45. This anti-overflow ball 45 is able to float and, if necessary, to press against the ring 47 so as to close its opening 50 to block the suction and prevent products from being sucked towards the vacuum generator 26.

[0066] The anti-overflow ball 45 is, in addition, linked by a spring 51 and a bracket 52 to the ring 47 to create electrical continuity, these parts being metal parts. This has the particular advantage of avoiding the generation of an electric arc when pumping in an ATEX type atmosphere.

[0067] Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, as shown in [Fig.2] - the front face 30 of the membrane 9 is substantially flat; - the membrane 9 has a length such that, when it is pressed against the internal face 12A of the shell 2, its front end (or front face 30) is located longitudinally at the level of the front end of the shell 2; and - the front bottom 3 of the tank 1 is curved (convex) towards the front.

[0068] This embodiment makes it possible to maintain a space 23 ([Fig.2]) between the front face 30 of the membrane 9 and the front bottom 3 of the tank 1 when the membrane 9 is pressed against the internal face 12A of the shell 2. This space 23 is advantageous for suction and positioning of the membrane 9 against the internal face 12A of the shell 2.

[0069] Furthermore, the tank 1 comprises a pressure limiting device 31 which is isolated by a valve and which is configured to be able to limit the pressure in the free space 15 between the tank 1 and the membrane 9, through an orifice 53 provided in the upper part of the front bottom 3.

[0070] In the context of the present invention, the membrane 9 can be fixed in different ways to the internal face 12A of the tank 1.

[0071] However, in a preferred embodiment, the membrane 9 is fixed by pinching, which in particular makes it possible to facilitate maintenance operations. To do this, a metal plate 13, in the form of a crown, is fixed, preferably welded, on the internal face 12A of the tank 1 all around the periphery of the tank 1, at the level of the fixing zone 27 at the rear of the tank 1. The open end 9C of the membrane 9 is wedged and retained between this plate 13 and one or more fixing counter-plates 17, which are screwed onto the crown 13. For reasons of simplification of the drawing, only sections of the plate 13 and the counter-plate 17 are shown in [Fig. 5].

[0072] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the membrane 9 is made of a composite material 18 comprising different superimposed layers having varied properties to enable said membrane 9 to be given the desired characteristics.

[0073] Preferably, the membrane 9 comprises, as shown schematically in [Fig. 6], at least one impermeable fabric 19 (or impermeable to gases and liquids), a fabric 20 providing mechanical resistance to the membrane 9, and a skin 21, preferably made of antistatic polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE. The skin 21 which is provided on the internal face 9A of the membrane 9 intended to come into contact with the products, provides resistance to mechanical shocks, to the chemical aggressiveness of the products and to the adhesion of the products. A membrane 9 thus produced has characteristics of appropriate flexibility and resistance to various types of aggression, which allows it to effectively implement the various dedicated functions. It also makes it possible to protect the shell 2 of the tank 1 against the various potential aggressions, and as the membrane 9 is arranged at the rear of the shell 2, it makes it possible to protect the entire internal face 12A of the ferrule 2.

[0074] Furthermore, the system 16 for generating a pressurization and a depression comprises an orifice 24 made in the ferrule 2 and provided with usual conduit connection means (not shown). The orifice 24 is made on the top of the ferrule 2 at the front end 4 opposite the rear end 6 provided with the opening 5.

[0075] In the particular embodiment, shown in Figures 1 and 2, the tank 1 comprises, as a pressurizing element, the compressed air generator 25 and, as a depression element, the vacuum generator 26.

[0076] In the context of the present invention: - the compressed air generator 25 can be any type of usual generator capable of blowing compressed air into the free space 15 through the orifice 24, as illustrated by an arrow E1 in [Fig.l]; and - the vacuum generator 26 can be any type of usual vacuum generator, preferably pneumatic (but not exclusively), capable of generating a vacuum in the free space 15 through the orifice 24, as illustrated by an arrow E2 in [Fig.2].

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, the system 16 comprises a single piece of equipment which can implement both functions (pressurization and depression), namely either operating as a compressed air generator 25 or operating as a vacuum generator 26, depending on the need.

[0078] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), two orifices can be provided, one of which is intended for pressurization and the other for depression.

[0079] Pressurizing the free space 15 makes it possible to push back the membrane 9 (which is turned over and removed from the tank as shown in [Fig. 3]) and to force the products contained in the tank 1 backwards, in order to evacuate them through the open door 7, as described below with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C.

[0080] The depressurization of the free space 15 allows, for its part, to press the membrane 9 against the internal face 12A of the tank 1 in order to bring it into a so-called “container” position so as to allow the filling of its internal storage space 11, through a filling orifice as specified below. The membrane 9 then takes the shape of the internal face 12A of the tank 1, as shown in [Fig.2] in particular.

[0081] The vacuum generator 26 is also configured to generate a depression in the internal space 11 inside the membrane 9 for the purpose of pumping products into said membrane, as specified below. To do this, the vacuum generator 26 is capable of generating a vacuum in the space 11 (via the passage 39) through the orifice 38, as illustrated by an arrow E3 in [Fig.2].

[0082] In an alternative embodiment, it is possible to envisage providing two vacuum generators, for example such as the vacuum generator 26, one of which is intended for the setting in depression of the free space 15 and the other of which is intended for the depression of the internal space 11.

[0083] Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, at least two support tubes (or bars) 35 are provided which are arranged at the rear of the tank 1 (FIGS. 4A to 4C). These tubes 35 are arranged at the bottom of the tank 1, on either side of the latter. They are capable of being held and sliding in rings (or guides) 36 mounted on the tank 1.

[0084] These tubes 35 are configured to be able to be brought into a retracted position (Figures 4A and 4B) or into a rearwardly extended position in which the tubes 35 are extended, as shown in [Fig.4C]. The tubes 35 are then oriented horizontally. The tubes 35 are brought into the extended position, by being pulled rearwardly by an operator. These tubes 35 make it possible to support the membrane 9 when it is completely extended and is no longer subjected to an expulsion pressure, namely more precisely during the transition from pressurization of the free space 15 to no pressurization (or to depression) of said free space 15.

[0085] Furthermore, the door 7 of the tank 1 is provided, in a lower part, with at least one evacuation (or emptying or decantation) orifice 28, fitted with a valve and a removable plug 29 capable of closing the orifice 28 when it is in place (figures 1 and 3) and of releasing the orifice 28 when it is removed ([Fig.2]). The filling and / or evacuation orifice 28 also comprises means for connecting a conduit (not shown).

[0086] The door 7 of the tank 1 is also provided with a pipe 34 provided with all the usual equipment to allow the filling of the tank 1, as shown only in [Fig.2] for reasons of simplification of the drawing.

[0087] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the tank 1 may have a single orifice in the lower part, intended for both filling and evacuation (or emptying or decantation).

[0088] The tank 1, as described above, can be filled or loaded using a filling (or loading) method described below, with reference to [Fig.2].

[0089] To do this, door 7 is closed and brought into the closed position P2.

[0090] Then, an appropriate depression is generated in the free space 15 (between the tank 1 and the membrane 9), using the vacuum generator 26 by drawing a vacuum (as illustrated by the arrow E2), so as to press the membrane 9 against the internal face 12A of the tank 1. Then, the vacuum is created in the internal space 11 through the orifice 38 using the vacuum generator 26 (as illustrated by the arrow E3).

[0091] In this closed position P2, as shown in [Fig.2], the products to be pumped, located outside the tank 1, are pushed under atmospheric pressure into the internal space 11 (in which the vacuum is created), using standard pumping means (not shown), through a filling orifice provided in the tank 1, via the filling pipe 34, as illustrated by an arrow Bl. The products penetrate inside the membrane 9, into the internal storage space 11.

[0092] When the filling is finished, the depression generated in the internal space 11 is stopped using the vacuum generator 26.

[0093] If the tank 1 is not completely filled, it is possible to maintain the products in position (or to block them) in particular to reduce the mobility of the liquid mass. To do this, an appropriate pressure is generated in the free space 15 using the compressed air generator 25 to move the membrane 9 and adapt the volume of the storage space 11 to the volume of product contained inside the membrane 9. This maintenance is particularly advantageous when moving the tank, in particular when it is mounted on a vehicle, by making it possible to avoid untimely movements of the liquids contained in the products during driving.

[0094] The tank 1, as described above, is also capable of carrying out spinning of semi-liquid products, in particular sludge, contained in the internal storage space 11.

[0095] To do this, the rear door 7 of the tank 1 is closed, as shown in [Fig.2]. The free space 15 between the internal face 12A of the tank 1 and the external face 9B of the membrane 9 is pressurized using the compressed air generator 25. This pressurization compresses the semi-liquid products so as to generate a separation of the water and the juices which are found in the upper part of the tank 1 and which can be evacuated through the orifice 28 provided in the lower part of the door 7, as illustrated by a dashed arrow B2 (the valve being open and the plug 29 being of course removed in this case).

[0096] Furthermore, the tank 1, as described above, can be emptied (or unloaded) while remaining horizontal, using an emptying (or unloading) method described below with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C.

[0097] To carry out the emptying, starting from the closed position P2 of [Fig.4A] with the membrane 9 in a position A1 in contact with the internal wall of the tank 1, the door 7 is opened, as shown by an arrow I, and it is brought into its open position PI ([Fig.4B]).

[0098] The free space 15, between the internal face 12A of the tank 1 and the external face 9B of the membrane 9, is pressurized (controlled) using the system 16 to generate a pressurization, as illustrated by the arrow EL

[0099] The pressurization makes it possible to push back the membrane 9 and move it, as illustrated by an arrow K in [Fig.4B].

[0100] More precisely, the pressurization makes it possible to move the membrane 9, between the position A1 (shown in [Fig.4A]) in which it is pressed against the internal face 12A of the tank 1 and a position A2 (shown in [Fig.4C]) in which it is completely turned over and deployed towards the rear.

[0101] For pressurization, compressed air pressure is injected into the free space 15. This compressed air can, for example, be stored in a 300 liter bottle at 10 bars.

[0102] In the filling position of the tank 1, the membrane 9 remains pressed against the internal part of the tank 1. During emptying, the membrane 9 turns over, expelling the products stored inside the membrane 9 outside the tank 1. This allows rapid, efficient and complete evacuation of the products.

[0103] The movement of the membrane 9 therefore makes it possible to push back the products contained in the tank 1, towards the rear, and to evacuate (or eject) them through the open door 7, as illustrated by an arrow D in [Fig.4B].

[0104] The support tubes 35 are brought into the extended position (with an orientation substantially parallel to the axis of revolution of the shell 2) when the membrane 9 is removed from the tank 1, as shown in [Fig.4C]. The tubes 35 make it possible to support the membrane 9 when it is completely removed and is no longer subjected to an expulsion pressure, but is again sucked into the tank 1 by the generation of a depression in the free space 15 as illustrated by an arrow E2 in [Fig.4C].

[0105] An advantage of the tank 1 is a better guarantee to avoid the production of ATEX which would be rejected by the vacuum pump during particular pumping operations such as, for example, pumping 5000 liters out of 10000 liters of capacity. These 5000 liters pumped, the liquid can be blocked towards the rear with the membrane. To pump the next 5000 liters, it is sufficient to pump again from the membrane side and thus, the vacuum can be recreated without pumping ATEX since the sealed membrane separates from the vacuum. It is no longer necessary to degas the tank 1 to repeat several pumping operations.

[0106] The tank 1, as described above, may correspond to any type of tank (or cistern), which is intended for the storage of products and in particular semi-liquid products, pasty products or powdery solids. The tank may be installed in a fixed position or be mounted on a mobile machine (or vehicle), in particular a rolling vehicle.

[0107] In a preferred application, the tank 1 is a tank of a waste collection vehicle, and more particularly of a hydro-cleaner 32, as shown in [Fig.7]. The hydro-cleaner 32 is intended, in particular, to carry out cleaning and pumping operations of wastewater networks or industrial waste (gasoline, fuel, oils, etc.) and sanitation works. The hydro-cleaner 32 is equipped with the means necessary for filling and emptying of tank 1 and in particular the pressurization and vacuum system.

[0108] Due to the emptying in a horizontal position, without requiring tilting of the tank 1, the space requirement is reduced and numerous pieces of equipment 33 of the hydro-cleaner 32 can be arranged on the tank 1 or near the latter, which has the advantage of producing the hydro-cleaner in two modules, namely on the one hand the tank and elements fixed to the tank and on the other hand an equipment module, comprising a pumping system. These two modules are easily dismantled and adaptable from one carrier chassis to another. This mobility of the equipment allowing the interchangeability of the carrier is an important advantage in the context of the current environmental evolution of carriers.

[0109] The tank 1, as described above, has many advantages. First of all, the proposed solution has the following advantages: - to completely empty the tank 1 when the membrane 9 is turned over and (completely) removed from the tank 1; - to protect the entire internal surface of the shell 2 of the metal tank 1, using the membrane 9; and - to be able to easily and completely rinse the membrane 9 when it is turned over and completely removed.

[0110] The tank 1, as described above, also has other advantages, and in particular: - to maximize the transport volume; - to be a lightweight solution, with a payload gain of approximately 500 kilograms, in the application to a hydro-cleaner; - to be able to empty the contents of tank 1 horizontally, without tipping (or dumping), which makes it possible to eliminate the usual devices, static or mobile, intended to generate emptying, in particular by gravity; - to be able to carry out a safe, rapid and complete emptying of tank 1; - to be able to block liquids during transport; - to be able to transport all types of products and in particular aggressive products, thanks to the membrane 9 which can be made unalterable in particular to petroleum or acid products; - to present a reduced footprint; - to reduce the cost of construction and operation (compared to a conventional articulated device); - to be able to secure emptying operations (by eliminating the instability of trucks with a tilting tank) and transport operations (by eliminating the mobility of the liquid mass of waste in the tank); and - to increase productivity, for example, by compressing the sludge, in cases where water can be returned to the tank filling site.

Claims

Claims

1. Tank for storing products, in particular semi-liquid, pasty or powdery solid products, said tank (1) comprising: - a shell (2) provided with a rear opening (5) at a rear longitudinal end (6) and a door (7) capable of closing this opening (5); - a flexible membrane (9) impermeable to gases and liquids, intended to receive the products to be stored, said membrane (9) being provided with an opening (10), being arranged inside the tank (1) and being fixed along an annular fixing zone (27) to the internal face (12A) of the shell (2) so as to create a closed so-called free space (15), between the membrane (9) and the tank (1);and - a system (16) for generating a pressurization and a depression of the free space (15) between the tank (1) and the membrane (9), said system (16) comprising a vacuum generator (26) configured to generate a depression of an internal space (11) inside the membrane (9), the membrane (9) being configured to:; - be able to be completely pressed against the internal face (12A) of the ferrule (2) under the effect of a depression generated by said system (16); and - be able to be turned over and removed from the tank (1), through said open door (7), under the effect of a pressurization generated by said system (16), characterized in that: - the tank (1) is provided with a niche (36) which is formed inside and at the rear of the shell (2), which is arranged between the shell (2) and the membrane (9) and which opens, via a rear outlet (37), at the rear opening (5) of the shell (2); - the ferrule (2) is provided with at least one through orifice (38) opening inside the niche (36), the vacuum generator (26) being connected from the outside to said orifice (38); - the membrane (9) is fixed to the rear longitudinal end (6) of the ferrule (2) so that its opening (10) substantially coincides with the rear opening (5) of the ferrule (2); and - a passage (39) is formed from said orifice (38) to the internal space (11) of the membrane (9), via on the one hand the niche (36) and on the other hand a space (40) between the rear of the membrane (9) and the door (7) which is curved towards the rear, said passage (39) allowing said vacuum generator (26) to generate a depression in the internal space (11) of the membrane (9) with a view to pumping products into said membrane (9).

2. Tank according to claim 1, characterized in that the niche (36) has, at its rear outlet (37), a biconvex shape with two opposite convex surfaces (41, 42) of the same radius of curvature.

3. Tank according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the niche (36) is formed from at least one added part (43) which is welded to the internal face (12A) of the shell (2).

4. Tank according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the niche (36) is closed and sealed, except at its rear outlet (37) and the orifice (38).

5. Tank according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a suction pot (44) which is fixed on the external wall (12B) of the ferrule (2) around the orifice (38).

6. Tank according to claim 5, characterized in that the suction pot (44) is provided with an anti-overflow ball (45).

7. Tank according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that: - the front face (30) of the membrane (9) is substantially flat; - the membrane (9) has a length such that, when it is pressed against the internal face (12A) of the shell (2), its front end is located longitudinally at the level of the front end of the shell (2); and - the tank (1) comprises a front bottom (3) which is curved towards the front.

8. Tank according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a pressure limiting device (31) configured to be able to limit the pressure in the free space (15) between the tank (1) and the membrane (9).

9. Tank according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least two support tubes (35), capable of being brought from a retracted position to an extended position towards the rear of the tank (1) when the membrane (9) is removed from the tank (1), and in that, in the extended position, the tubes (35) are positioned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shell. (2) so as to be able to support the membrane (9).

10. Tank according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the membrane (9) is fixed by pinching between, on the one hand, at least one plate (13) fixed to the rear end of the tank (1) on the internal face (12A) of the shell (2) and on the niche (36), and on the other hand, at least one counter-plate (17).

11. Tank according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the membrane (9) is made of a composite material (18) comprising different superimposed layers, formed at least of a waterproof canvas (19), a fabric (20) and a skin (21) of polytetrafluoroethylene.

12. Vehicle, in particular a hydro-cleaner, characterized in that it comprises at least one tank (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. Method for filling the tank (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it comprises at least the following steps, consisting of: - closing the door (7) of the tank (1); - generating a vacuum in the free space (15) between the tank (1) and the membrane (9), using the vacuum system (16), so as to press the membrane (9) against the internal face (12A) of the tank (1); - generating a vacuum in the internal space (11) using the vacuum generator (26) so that atmospheric pressure pushes the products into this internal space (11), through a filling orifice (28), inside the membrane (9); and - when the filling is finished, stopping the vacuum in the internal space (11).

14. Method for emptying the tank (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it comprises at least the following steps, consisting of: - opening the door (7) of the tank (1); - generating a pressurization of the free space (15) between the tank (1) and the membrane (9), using the pressurization system (16), so as to push back the membrane (9) and move it, this movement causing a complete reversal of the membrane (9) and an ejection products through the door (7) in the open position (PI); and - when emptying is complete, stop pressurizing the free space (15).

15. Method for spinning products from the tank (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it comprises at least the following steps, consisting of: - the door (7) of the tank (1) being closed, generating a pressurization of the free space (15) between the tank (1) and the membrane (9), using the pressurization system (16), so as to push back the membrane (9) and move it, this movement compressing the products present in the tank (1) so as to generate a separation of the juices which are evacuated through an evacuation orifice (28) which is open; and - when the spin is finished, stop pressurizing the free space (15) and close the evacuation orifice (28).

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