Device for preparing and projecting a mixture of plant aggregate and moistened binder, and use of the device equipped with a fill level sensor

Abstract

The device for preparing and spraying a mixture including plant-based granules and a moistened binder (63), arranged as a unit supported by a structure, comprises a first dosing stage (41) for the dry binder (61) and a second dosing stage for the granules. A tank (5) with a vertically rotating agitator acts as a mixer to combine the binder from the first stage with water and then dos and pump (7) the moistened binder into a spray lance that also receives the granules, which are circulated by a booster pump. Continuous spraying is achieved by utilizing at least one sensor (C5) provided in the tank (5), which indicates when the tank's fill level falls below a threshold (hs). The tank has a low horizontal outlet to which the pump (7) is connected. (See abstract figure: Figure 3)

Description

Title of the invention: Device for preparing and projecting a mixture of moistened plant aggregate and binder, and use of the device equipped with a fill level sensor. Technical field

[0001] This disclosure relates to installations used to project materials, such as lightweight concrete or mortar, in the building construction sector. It specifically concerns a device for preparing and projecting a multi-material stream including plant-based aggregate and a moistened binder. One use of the device is also proposed. Previous technique

[0002] In the field of low density concrete spraying, in construction, it is known to obtain lightweight concrete by mixing binder and aggregates which can be based on plant components, for example with a view to spraying it for the construction and thermal insulation (interior or exterior) of buildings, renovation. Processes involving low-density concrete all tend to reconcile at least some of the following objectives: - simplicity of operation, minimizing user intervention; - dosage efficiency, the water intake must be controlled (typically reduced during its incorporation); - maintaining the quality of the mixture to be sprayed during projection (or guniting).

[0003] Examples of suitable binders include air-hardening binders such as slaked lime, hydrated dolomite, and plaster. A moistened binder can be obtained by mixing it with water during a water incorporation step. The binder is preferably based on a compound containing the element Ca. It may also be clay-based. By "air-hardening binder," we mean binders whose setting results from carbonation, particularly by atmospheric CO2. Such a binder may optionally be combined with a fine pozzolanic reagent.

[0004] To date, the ergonomics of the spraying process are unsatisfactory. Several workstations are required, with arduous and constrained tasks during the operations necessary to obtain the proper mixture. Operators are exposed to dust, while handling and monitoring require the almost constant presence of three different operators.

[0005] Document FR 2915702 discloses equipment for projecting a mixture of lime and hemp which has several operational stages: - loading stations which use augers and are arranged with a mixing area to mix the respective raw materials dry; - a transfer and distribution station for the remaining dry mixture, including an airlock; - an injection unit so that the dry mixture distributed by the airlock is then blown into a transport pipe (by a horizontal airflow); and - a wetting ring, allowing the water (sprayed water) to be integrated with the mixture right in the projection lance, before a spray outlet. This type of equipment cannot be easily used for continuous, high-quality operation. Controlling the distribution of components in the dry mix is ​​difficult without the active presence of operators at the various loading stations, in addition to the operator holding the spray nozzle. Furthermore, installing the equipment is very time-consuming.

[0006] More generally, dry spraying methods, which involve mixing the raw materials in dry form with hydration occurring only just before the nozzle exits, are not considered satisfactory for the continuous spraying of compressible concrete, where the aggregates are not embedded in a predominant binder mass. Indeed, with a dry spraying method, losses due to rebound off the treated surface are greater than with the wet spraying method. Undesirable blockages and agglomerations occur at the end of the transfer because the mixture is more irregular.

[0007] In addition, with this method, part of the binder may end up suspended in the air, causing mists and the release of irritating dust. There is therefore room for improvement in reducing operator interventions and facilitating the operation of a machine projecting a mixture including a binder, water and plant aggregates, while allowing a mixture with good cohesion between the binder and the aggregates to be obtained. Summary

[0008] The present disclosure improves the situation. To this end, a device for preparing and projecting a multi-material stream including a plant-based granulate and a moistened binder is proposed, the device being provided with a support structure and comprising, on the support structure: - a first dosing stage supplied with dry binder, which is preferably in the form of lime, in order to provide a determined flow rate of dry binder; - a second dosing stage supplied with plant aggregate, a part of the plant aggregate transfer being placed downstream of the second dosing stage which provides a flow of plant aggregate; - a tank for preparing the moistened binder, including an inlet for water or aqueous solution and an inlet for dry binder in communication with the first dosing stage; - an agitator unit, having a vertical agitator shaft, coupled to the tank to continuously mix the water with said binder within a closed volume of the tank; and - a pneumatic conveying system, at which a flow of moistened binder exiting the tank via a tank outlet joins a flow of plant-based granules propelled from the transfer section, preferably propelled by a blower unit mounted on a platform of the structure supporting the tank and each of the dosing stages; and - at least one sensor provided in the tank, allowing to indicate that a fill level of the tank is below a threshold.

[0009] With this arrangement, the device can integrate the loading stations in parallel with, in addition to the aggregate dosing (the flow rate of plant-based aggregate can be controlled), the possibility of real-time control of important parameters concerning the preparation and / or distribution of the moistened binder: not only is the dry binder flow rate configurable by the first dosing stage coupled to the tank, but actual flow rates before the connection can advantageously be controlled, for example in a coordinated manner, by using the sensor(s) provided in the tank. This eliminates the need for an operator to monitor the feed levels, thus improving the reliability of the spraying process. The device is compatible with a closed volume tank, so that dust-related difficulties can be eliminated in parts of the device located downstream of the loading stations (downstream in the direction of flow of raw materials).

[0010] Typically, the tank may have a first, lower filling zone, where an agitator element of the agitator equipment is located, and a second filling zone situated above the first filling zone. The threshold is, for example, set to represent a height level higher than the first filling zone (the first zone where the tank outlet may be located). It is understood that the risk of blockages forming in the pipes / tubes is reduced, as the sprayed mixture can be homogeneous. Furthermore, the sensor(s) can ensure that an adequate dosage has been achieved: traceability of the quantities of raw materials can typically be guaranteed.

[0011] Examples of plant-based granules (typically lightweight) include hemp, such as hemp hurd (the non-fibrous part of the hemp stalk) and / or other hemp components, as well as wood, reed, flax, and cork. In the device, the first dosing stage may be smaller or narrower than the second. The dosing stage, for example, can be narrower and shorter (smaller vertical dimension). Screeners for these two stages can, however, be located at the same height level (the second dosing stage can have a deeper hopper than the hopper of the first dosing stage).

[0012] According to one particular feature, the device includes a control means capable of controlling at least one of the following: the flow rate of moistened binder exiting the tank, the flow rate of plant-based granules, and the predetermined flow rate of dry binder, based on information representing the tank's fill level. It may be provided for controlling the supply of water or aqueous solution, insofar as water is part of the mixture formed in the tank. Alternatively, the water flow rate may be a fixed value chosen at the outset, with the possibility of stopping the water flow when the fill level exceeds a threshold and / or when a failure to supply dry binder is detected (for example, by a sensor on the dry binder feed hopper and / or by detection of an insufficient tank fill level due to this failure to supply dry binder).

[0013] In embodiments of the preparation and projection device, one or more of the following features may be used: - The device is in the form of a machine mounted on a trailer. - The device is towable and has a connection provided at one end of the device's support structure, while two conveyors (one for the dry binder, the other for the plant aggregate) are arranged in parallel on the support structure, opposite the connection. - both conveyors each have a retractable part, so each of the two conveyors has a deployed configuration which extends the support structure, on the opposite side to the towing link which can form a front end of the support structure. - the tank is placed on a platform of the support structure, being positioned under the first dosing stage and, preferably, under part of a conveyor coupled to the first dosing stage. - the first dosing stage and the second dosing stage are adjacent and mounted on the platform of the support structure, on the same side with respect to the blower unit also mounted on said platform. - The first and second dosing stages are each equipped with a feed hopper, so that the device comprises a first and second hopper that are functionally separate and elongated in the same direction. - The dry binder supply is formed by a descending conduit (for example, through a vertical axis) extending from the first dosing stage to a top opening in the tank, so that the tank is located below the first dosing stage. - the tank has a lid or upper wall element, which includes the upper opening and on which a means for rotating the vertical stirring shaft can optionally be attached.

[0014] According to one particular feature, the tank outlet incorporates or is traversed by a rotating element, rotating about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the agitator shaft, which contributes to the discharge of the moistened binder. This rotating element may be part of a pump for sending / distributing an outgoing flow of moistened binder, typically with a flow rate adjusted according to the rotation of said rotating element, to the spraying section via a flexible hose. The pump, which enables the distribution of this flow, may be of the helical screw type and includes, on the outside of the tank, a termination fitting for attaching a flexible connecting hose separate from the pneumatic conveying path.A conduit, for example more rigid than the flexible pipe or stiffened externally, can be arranged or formed at another end of this pipe to reach the junction with the light aggregate flow, typically in a portable spray lance for the mixture obtained from the junction.

[0015] The tank can be closed by having a partial lid or a movable lid. More generally, in embodiments of the tank, at least one of the following arrangements is provided: - The tank has a lid or upper wall element, provided with a movable element which is equipped with a handle, and preferably mounted articulated on a hinge. - The movable element is offset by and complementary to a fixed horizontal part carrying a means for driving the rotation of the vertical stirring shaft. - at least one sensor is positioned on / carried by the cover or upper wall element. - at least one sensor has several sensitive parts or probes to detect at least two distinct levels of filling. - an interface for supporting probes or instruments for measuring the fill level is mounted on the tank, for example by plugging a top opening of the tank, forming at least one sensor. - the agitator equipment has a first agitator element / part (for example in the form of a propeller) forming the agitator element / part which extends into the first filling zone. - the agitator equipment also has a second agitator element / body (for example in the form of a propeller) which occupies a higher position on the agitator shaft by extending into the second filling zone. - the first agitator element has a propulsive helix structure, the second agitator element also has a propulsive helix structure but in the opposite direction. - the second agitator element of the agitator equipment, carried by an agitator shaft which also carries the first agitator element, is located comparatively higher. - the second agitator element is configured with a propeller effect propulsion which forces the mass of mixture (in the tank) downwards. - the propulsion effect of the propeller of the second agitator element is in the opposite direction to a propulsion effect allowed by a propeller of the first agitator element. - The two agitator elements work together to allow, during tank operation: a downward discharge of a portion of the mixture, blended in the second filling zone (discharge by the propeller of the second agitator element), and an upward discharge of a portion of the mixture, blended in the first filling zone (discharge by the propeller of the first agitator element). - The two agitator elements have different propeller structures, at least in their orientation. - at least one propeller, and preferably each propeller, provided on the agitator element in one of the filling zones is designed and arranged to push the mixed mixture into the other filling zone. - the first agitator element can push / pull back the mixed mixture in the first filling zone towards the second filling zone, while the second agitator element allows the mixed mixture in the second filling zone to be pushed / pushed back towards the first filling zone. - one of the probes (or measuring parts to detect a fill level of the tank) is configured to detect a fill level higher than the second agitator element. - a sensor can be of the vibrating blade type and / or conductive level probe(s), to form all or part of the sensor part allowing to detect one or more filling levels in the tank. - the tank is wider than it is tall and has a tubular side wall, which is for example a wall with a continuous curvature over at least two angular sectors each representing more than 100°. - the shaft of the agitator equipment may have at least two propellers or agitator elements, vertically distributed on the shaft, preferably spaced from the bottom of the tank (the shaft may be suspended and offset from the bottom which does not have a guide or opening to accommodate a shaft end). - a propeller (called lower propeller) or lower agitator element may be located lower than a tube, hollow organ or shaft linked to a device for evacuating the moistened binder. - the tank is traversed by a hollow element, perpendicular to the stirring shaft and forming a motorized rotating shaft which is connected to a screw for evacuating the moistened binder. - the tank has a vent, formed on the lid or upper wall element delimiting the internal volume of the tank from above. - the tank has a water inlet with a solenoid valve or other type of valve, and optionally with a regulating tap, a flow meter, to allow control of the flow of water or aqueous solution entering the tank, all or part of these components being assembled on the lid or upper wall element delimiting the internal volume of the tank from above.

[0016] The tank may have an outlet located in the first filling zone, extending higher than the lower propeller or lower agitator element of the agitator equipment. A horizontal arrangement of the discharge screw may be preferred. The discharge screw may extend below / over the underside of a hopper at the first dosing station. More broadly, the tank may include a rigid tube forming an outlet, equipped with a rotating screw, to which a conveying hose for the moistened binder is connected. The conveying hose, for example, a flexible one, allows the flow (outflow from the tank) of moistened binder to reach the pump where it mixes with the plant-based aggregate.

[0017] The absence of humidification in the respective dosing stages (of plant-based granules and dry binder) facilitates maintenance. The tank can be cleaned by a cleaning cycle activated after a continuous spraying phase. To enable this type of cleaning, the tank may include: - means of cleaning by spraying a liquid from the top of the tank, which may be separate from a water supply used during mixing (mixing phase) to produce the homogenized moistened binder. - a lower purge port, provided in the bottom of the tank, which allows the cleaning liquid to be evacuated with impurities, particles of matter detached from the tank and detached from the agitator equipment.

[0018] The cleaning means include at least one spray nozzle that projects downwards into the enclosed volume, in a closed tank configuration. The tank includes, in an axially interposed position between the bottom and the spray nozzle, at least one agitator element (propeller) carried by the vertical agitator shaft. Positioning the agitator element directly above the nozzle can facilitate cleaning the nozzle.

[0019] The preparation and projection device can be automated to implement a spraying process with continuous phases, without operator intervention other than the one who holds and directs the spray lance. In optional configurations, the control means provided in the device allows for the shutdown of the first dosing stage and / or a first section of the conveyor supplying the first dosing stage in order to stop the predetermined flow of dry binder, as well as a shutdown of the second a dosing stage and / or a second conveying section feeding the second dosing stage in order to stop the flow of plant-based granules. This can allow the upstream supply to the tank and the junction to be stopped when the operator considers that they are reaching or approaching the end of the spraying cycle. The control means can also activate or deactivate raw material supply phases depending on the water supply being made to the tank, possibly with real-time reactions.

[0020] The control means, typically belonging to a control and automation unit which has a set of valves, can allow switching between: - a first mode corresponding to a mixing, in which a first valve element of said assembly is open to allow water to be supplied to the tank with an adjustable flow rate, while a second valve element of said valve assembly closes a cleaning path in fluidic connection with the closed volume; - and a second mode corresponding to tank cleaning, in which the first valve element of the assembly is closed, while the second valve element of said assembly is open to allow the flow of a cleaning fluid. For example, the second mode can be activated by the control and automation unit during a shutdown phase of the first and second dosing stages.

[0021] The cleaning fluid can be pressurized by passing through a nozzle and / or can be supplied from a pressurized tank or a conventional water supply. The control means can activate / deactivate and, for example, coordinate supply valves intended for the different components of the mixture prepared in the tank. Coordination can also be achieved to slow down or stop the flow of plant-based granules at the second dosing stage.

[0022] According to another aspect, a use of the preparation and projection device is proposed, in which the dry binder contains lime, the device comprising a control and automation unit intended to automate the preparation of the composition of the multi-material mixture to be projected, including the plant aggregate and the moistened binder, and in which at least one sensor is part of a group of sensors enabling the control and automation unit to receive data representative of one filling level at a time: - for dry binder being transported to the tank, particularly in a detection zone located on said platform, - and for moistened binder present in the closed volume of the tank.

[0023] The detection zone typically corresponds to a position upstream of the tank, for example by having a sensor that can detect a filling level of a hopper belonging to the first dosing stage. It is understood that the device can be configured to allow communication between the tank and the control and automation unit, so that a feeding step of one or both of the dosing stages can be automatically modified based on data received by the control and automation unit. This data can be, in particular: - representative of at least one tank filling level; and - representative of at least one level of filling with dry binder, before humidification, in the first dosing stage.

[0024] In use of the device, a start-up cycle can be initiated by entering setting parameters, for example using a screen (touchscreen) and / or an input interface, which may include: - a type of plant aggregate, with where applicable its density and / or type of packaging (20 or 30 kg bag, or other capacity to be specified). - a length of the blow pipe installed on an outlet of the second dosing stage. - a type of binder, possibly with a level of grain fineness (which can be reflected by the specific surface area in cm2 / g) and / or its density. - a length of the supply / sending pipe for the moistened binder placed on an outlet pipe of the tank. Within the same plant, such as hemp, parameterization is also possible, with for example a density parameter (which can depend on the fiber content, the type of hurd, the type of raw cut or ground in bulk).

[0025] The device may have a first zone for depositing bags containing selectively / only plant aggregate of a specific type (which does not vary, for example, determined by a parameter) and a second zone for depositing bags containing selectively / only dry binder. These two zones are spaced laterally / on one side of the tank. The device may have: - a first screener, associated with the first dosing stage (this screener allowing the filling of a hopper in this first stage); and - a second screener, associated with the second dosing stage (this other screener allowing the filling of a hopper of this second stage),

[0026] In one use of the device, the tank is first filled with water, for example, at least to a predefined level. The dry binder is fed into the tank, and the agitator is activated and rotated to obtain a homogeneous, moistened binder. Priming can be performed on the screw pump side to draw out the binder. the moistened binder outside the tank, this moistened binder can circulate in the delivery pipe, for example to a valve or obturator of the pump where the junction of the respective flows takes place. After the start-up described above, the device can operate continuously, for example, by allowing the selection or input of a desired spray flow rate. The tank for forming the moistened binder can function as a reservoir to supply the moistened binder according to the required spray flow rate. The supply of dry binder can be automated and regulated according to the fill level(s) determined by the sensor(s): this moistened binder has a homogeneous, constant composition and can be sent to the spray lance or nozzle by the motorized pump coupled to the tank, which can extend radially outwards from a side wall of the tank. This pump is of the rotary screw type (for example, an eccentric screw type, such as the Moineau™ pump). In some embodiments, the moistened binder / hemp mixture is prepared downstream of this pump, in the handheld spray lance.

[0027] It is understood that the moistened binder is prepared during this start-up phase / cycle, which is a phase during which the spraying does not begin, given that the air blower unit's blower remains off until the operator has started a running / spraying cycle. The pump, which is primed by being connected to the moistened binder delivery hose, starts as soon as the plant granules arrive in the spray lance, to allow the moistened binder to flow into the lance via the connection. At the end of the spraying cycle, the operator can stop the device, typically by pressing an on / off button (which may be provided on a remote control), so that there is a higher flow rate at the outlet of the second dosing stage. The air blower may continue to run for a short time to empty the plant granulate tube. As soon as this tube is empty, the pump stops to halt the delivery of the moistened binder

[0028] . In the event of a tank stoppage and / or a prolonged interruption of the spraying process, for example, reaching or exceeding 30 minutes, an interface may recommend cleaning. Regardless of a cleaning alert mode, the moistened binder can be cleaned in the tank. The tank is a mixing tank or mixer unit, equipped with a cleaning nozzle (at least one nozzle), mounted on a tank wall opposite the tank bottom.A drainage opening is provided in the bottom of the tank for evacuation during the cleaning phase via a passage in the tank which is located lower and is separate from the outlet for the moistened binder during a spraying cycle.

[0029] More broadly, depending on the use (for example, spraying on a roof or a wall), the effective flow rates to be delivered to the junction can be adjusted without intervention on the vertically mounted agitator tank: the device can be programmed differently, with adjustment of mass percentages in the binder / aggregate pair, while taking advantage of sensor information. Brief description of the drawings

[0030] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent from reading the detailed description below, and from analyzing the attached drawings, on which: [Fig.1] is a perspective view illustrating a device for preparing a mixture to be sprayed, before the connection pipes to the projection lance are put in place. Figure 2 shows a non-limiting example of a two-stage dosing arrangement arranged in parallel; this arrangement could be part of the device shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 illustrates, by means of a longitudinal cross-sectional view, a portion of the device showing the flow path of the binder, which is supplied and dosed as a dry binder before entering the tank that forms the mixer of the device. Fig. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the arrangement of the tank forming the mixer of a device according to an example embodiment, here with the inside of the tank visible through transparency. Figure 5 schematically illustrates an automated operating mode, using a sensor-equipped component mounted in the tank of a device for preparing and spraying a mixture including plant-based granules and the moistened binder prepared in the tank. Figure 6 schematically shows an example of a spray lance or nozzle suitable for complementing a device like the one shown in Figure 1, allowing the moistened binder and plant-based granules to be sprayed together. Description of the implementation methods

[0031] In the drawings, certain dimensions may be exaggerated for illustrative purposes. In the various figures, the same reference numerals designate identical or similar elements. The Z direction designates the vertical and the Y direction a transverse direction of width. Throughout, reference is made to a tank 5 having a single internal volume V5 (see [Fig. 3]), without this being limiting to the total number of tanks that a device 1 for preparing and spraying a moistened binder mixture + plant granule may have.

[0032] As shown in [Fig. 1], the device 1 includes a support structure 3 which is, for example, integrated into a trailer 10, optionally providing a platform P10 for the fixed mounting of various components of the device 1. The trailer 10 may be of the double-axle type. An external frame 100 may be provided to protect the components, with the additional possibility of covering this frame 100, for example, with removable tarpaulins (such as a roof tarpaulin for bamum for example). Where appropriate, motorized or dangerous parts are not made accessible laterally, using at least a barrier or a gate, such as a wire mesh gate in some options.

[0033] The device 1 comprises, on the support structure 3, a first dosing stage 41 supplied with dry binder 61 and a second dosing stage 42 supplied with plant granule 62. Transport means MT, typically in the form of conveyors, are provided to allow the feeding of each of the dosing stages 41 and 42, in parallel. In implementation options that improve ergonomics (to minimize or eliminate the physical strain of operations), the loading of raw materials can be facilitated by: - having a first loading area, on which at least one B1 bag (closed / unopened bag) containing the dry binder 61 can be placed; and - by having a second loading area, on which at least one B2 bag (closed bag) containing the plant granule 62 can be placed.

[0034] Upward-sloping conveyors can be provided to form the MT transport means, which allow the bags Bl, B2 to be moved from the corresponding loading area to a hopper area located higher up. The MT transport means are, for example, distributed in parallel to raise the respective bags Bl and B2 to the level of: - a first screener to feed a hopper (here through a top opening) constituting the receiving part of the first dosing stage 41; and - a second screener to feed a hopper (here through a top opening) which forms the receiving part of the first 4L dosing stage Although an arrangement with a right-hand conveyor for bags Bl of dry binder and a left-hand conveyor for bags B2 of lightweight aggregate is illustrated in [Fig. 1], other arrangements can be made for feeding bags Bl, B2 by a pair of conveyors that are part of the MT transport means. A retractable or hinged conveyor section can be provided to reduce the dimensions of the support structure 3, for example with a jamb 3p provided to support this retractable section which can form the bag unloading area for Bl, B2 at the rear / opposite of the trailer link (front link to allow the device 1 to be towed by a vehicle).

[0035] With reference to Figures 1 and 6, the device 1 has two controlled supply lines: one for the controlled supply of moistened binder 63 with an initial supply of dry binder 61 and the other for the controlled supply of plant aggregate 62 with the use of a blower or similar pneumatic drive system for transporting this aggregate plant material after dosing. A junction J is provided, which can be located in the projection section, for example in the form of a lance or nozzle as in the case of [Fig. 6]. Long flexible hoses (several meters long, for example, to allow the operator to move away from the support structure 3) can form conduits, with the first conduit Cl carrying the moistened binder 63, and the second conduit C2 bringing the plant-based granules propelled by an ultrasonic blower unit to which this second conduit C2 is connected.

[0036] In practical implementation examples, such as those shown in Figures 1 to 3, device 1 allows for bag opening and / or cutting without human assistance after the closed bag(s) have been deposited, at least for one of the conveyors of the MT transport system. In the case shown in [Fig. 1], bags B1 and B2 are opened during travel along a conveyor track, for example, using circular blades moving around an axis (typically a horizontal axis). Optionally, the conveyors are equipped with at least three or four circular blades each, which allows the respective bags to be opened by cutting the packages lengthwise (along the path of the conveyor). Bags B1 and B2 can be deposited by the operator in a predetermined orientation, for example, when they are longer than they are wide.

[0037] The bags Bl, B2 continue to be conveyed with their contents spilling onto the conveyor belt. Each of the bags Bl, B2 can (once opened) be conveyed onto a vibrating assembly VB, for example, a two-plate vibrating assembly 9a, 9b, which is specifically designed. The vibrating assembly VB can then facilitate the discharge of the bag contents through the upper opening providing access to the interior of the corresponding dosing stage 41 or 42, as shown in particular in [Fig. 2].

[0038] With reference to [Fig. 2], two parallel sides of each hopper are surmounted / extended by a corresponding pair of flanks, at least a portion of which is equipped with or consists of vibrating plates 9a, 9b. Motors may be formed / provided on the outside of the flanks forming the vibrating plates 9a, 9b, laterally on either side of the two openings forming the respective accesses to the first dosing stage 41 and the second dosing stage 42. More generally, an arrangement with at least two vibrating plates 9a, 9b is provided to allow the bags to be emptied into two hoppers: a hopper of the first stage 41 for the dry binder 61 and a hopper of the second stage 62 for the lightweight aggregate 62. A screening conveyor can be fitted to each hopper opening to separate particles or fragments that are too large and prevent the cut bag or parts of the cut bag from falling out. Vibrations can be generated in any suitable manner to achieve a conveying step. - dry binder with the cut bag(s), by a conveyor which has a screening body subjected to vibrations; - plant granulate (which is also typically dry) with the cut bag(s), by another conveyor which has a screening body subjected to vibrations.

[0039] The first dosing stage 41 may have a dosing screw VI, while the second dosing stage 42 may have a dosing screw V2, for example, arranged parallel to screw VI. The axis of rotation Al of screw VI is thus parallel to the axis of rotation A2 of screw V2, with each of the feed hoppers elongated along the same direction X (parallel to these axes Al and A2). Screws VI and V2 are, for example, auger screws. The first dosing stage 41 allows the dosing of dry binder by the auger screw V1, which circulates a flow of dry binder 61 towards a tank 5. The outlet 41s of the first stage 41 and the outlet 42s of the second stage may be arranged

[0040] With reference to Figures 2 and 3, the first dosing stage 41 has an outlet 41s connected to a mixer including the tank 5 to allow mixing of this product (typically a powder) with water or a suitable aqueous solution. At least one of the discharge areas, on top of one or both of the hoppers, has a hatch 11a, 11b located opposite the conveyor used to lift and cut the bag B1, B2. In a parallel arrangement of the dosing stages 41, 42, two hatches can be provided side by side, for example, movable by being hinged around a horizontal axis raised relative to a base surface corresponding to the level of the screen(s) covering the access openings to the dosing stages 41, 42 (screeners of the discharge area).

[0041] More generally, once the bags Bl, B2 have been emptied, the device 1 can evacuate the bags without manual intervention, using bag evacuation equipment Tl equipped with hatches lia, 11b or other movable walls giving access to a recovery part, for example arranged transversely or perpendicularly to a general direction of transport of each conveyor of the transport means MT.

[0042] As illustrated in [Fig. 3], a hatch 1 can be opened by being hinged on a top, optionally with an opening control provided by a cylinder 1 carried by the discharge equipment T1. This allows the ejection of the packages / bags into the compactor 30 located, relative to the discharge zone in the first dosing stage 41, on the other side of the bag discharge equipment T1. By gravity, the bags B1, B2 are collected in a hollow tubular structure and can, for example, be selectively moved to one side by a drive element, for example, equipped with a rotating screw V3 with a helical structure. A reservoir container or temporary holding container T30, for example, in the shape of a " A "sock" with an open / openable bottom can be provided at the end of the hollow tubular structure of the compactor 30. Bag or packaging residues may be ejected from one side of the support structure 3, with an opening in the container T30 that leads laterally to one side of this support structure 3. Example of integrating a tank with an agitator into the device

[0043] The tank 5 has a bottom 5a and includes a side wall 5b extending vertically from the bottom 5a to an upper wall element 5c, forming a lid. The tank 5 can carry an agitator 6 to form a mixer. A motor M5 can be mounted directly on the top of the tank 5 for top-driving an agitator rod or shaft 60. Generally, the agitator 6 includes at least one vertical agitator shaft 60, coupled to the tank 5 to continuously mix water with a dry binder 61 in a closed volume V5 of the tank 5. The agitator shaft 60 can be arranged vertically, either coinciding with or close to a central axis of the tank 5. The lid 5c, which may include a movable part 5d, closes off top access to the closed volume V5. A vent or valve may be provided on the lid for ventilation. A movable element 5d can be part of the lid or upper wall element 5c, for example with a handle 55 as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. This movable element 5d is here mounted articulated on a hinge CH and can be offset to one side to be accessible from an external side of the support structure 3. The movable element 5 is, for example, complementary to a fixed horizontal part carrying the drive means 6d used to actuate the rotation of the vertical agitator shaft 60.

[0044] The tank 5 is wider than it is tall in the example of Figures 3 and 4. More generally, the tank 5 has a format adapted to obtain homogeneous agitation, for example by having a side wall 5b which has a continuous curvature over at least two angular sectors each representing more than 100°. Tank 5 is part of a feed line parallel to the light aggregate feed line or channel 62. Outlet 42s can be located at the bottom of the second metering stage 42, at an end far from the MT conveying means, with the possibility of connection to a US blower unit, equipped, for example, with an air blower. Tank 5 and the blower unit can be arranged on opposite sides in a right-left direction (lateral direction Y as seen in [Fig. 3]), with tank 5 positioned completely behind outlet 42s and the US blower unit, thus offset towards the MT conveying means along the direction of the X-axis shown in [Fig. 3] (which corresponds to a conveying direction for delivery from the same rear side of the metering stages). 41, 42, the X direction being a longitudinal / elongation direction of the structure 3).

[0045] In the tank 5, the dry binder inlet 52 can be formed by a downward conduit extending from the first dosing stage 41 to an upper opening 05 ([Fig. 3]) of the tank 5, which passes through the upper lid / wall element 5c, so that the tank 5 is located below the first dosing stage 41. The tank 5 is adapted to be filled with water before the discharge of the dry binder 61, which is discharged according to the dosing rate obtained at the outlet 41s of the first dosing stage 41. For this purpose, the tank 5 can include a tap or a water / aqueous liquid supply device, typically mounted on the upper wall element 5c, which also includes the opening 05. The discharge of the moistened binder 63 resulting from the mixing / stirring in the volume V5 can be carried out using a pumping section that communicates with a lower filling zone Za of the tank 5. For example, the tank 5 can be traversed by a hollow element, perpendicular to the stirring shaft 60 and forming a motorized rotating shaft connected to a screw conveyor 63 for discharging the moistened binder. A jacket can form a conduit for the pump 7 used to adjust the outgoing flow rate of moistened binder 63. Arrow F5 in [Fig. 3] illustrates the flow of moistened binder F5 entering the flexible pipe forming conduit C1 or joining such a conduit which connects to the other conduit C2 via junction J ([Fig. 6]). The pump 7, for example, is an off-center helical screw pump within an internal helical conduit of the tubing or pump body connected to the tank 5 at the lower opening forming a horizontal outlet 07, clearly visible in [Fig. 4].

[0046] Regardless of the method of circulating the moistened binder 63 to obtain an outlet flow rate F5 at the outlet 7, the pump 7 can be provided to extend horizontally by connecting to this outlet 07, preferably by having a rotating element of this pump 7 that passes horizontally through the outlet 07. Typically, a flow rate of the flux F5 can be adjusted according to the rotational speed of a rotating element (helical screw connected to a shaft) of this pump 7. The motor M7 of this pump 7 can be disposed external to the tank, on the platform P10 or other area of ​​the structure 3, on a side opposite the body of the pump 7, so that the tank 5 is traversed (horizontally) by a shaft that extends between a first external end (outside the tank) connected to the motor M7 and a second end that connects, for example, through the opening or outlet 07, to the screw drive housed in the body of the pump. As seen in the [Fig.3] In particular, the pump 7 has, outside the tank 5, a termination fitting (for example formed as a male termination / fitting on the pump body), for attaching a flexible connecting hose separate from the pneumatic conveying path.

[0047] The base 5a can rest directly or indirectly on the platform P10 of the support structure 3. The tank 5 can be partially offset on one side of the structure 3, which is optionally on the opposite side from the opening of the container T30, here tubular. More generally, the tank 5 can be located, on the support structure 3, on the same side as the controlled supply line that receives the bags B1 of dry binder 61. As shown in Figures 1, 3, and 4, the mixer tank 5 is a preparation tank for the moistened binder 63, which includes an inlet 51 for water or aqueous solution and an inlet 52 for dry binder that is connected to the first dosing stage 4L. This inlet 52 may correspond to the termination point of a screw (Archimedes screw), given that a gap may be provided between a terminal helix of this screw V1 (bottom screw located at the bottom of the hopper) and a bearing supporting one end of the screw shaft VL. The inlet 52 may include the opening 05 located under the terminal section of this shaft, between the terminal helix 12 and the bearing PL

[0048] To ensure control of the mixing phase, the device 1 may have one or more sensors providing an indication / information that a fill level has been reached or exceeded and / or information indicating an insufficient fill level in the tank 5. One or more fill thresholds (hs) may be set, typically to allow the resumption of dry binder 61 supply when it is determined that the actual fill level (measured in real time) has fallen below the reference hs threshold. This is compatible with continuous spraying, carried out as long as the dosing rates are maintained.

[0049] In the example of Figures 3, 4 and 5, a sensor means C5 with one or more probes 50 for detecting one or more fill levels of the tank 5 is shown. This sensor means is offset / moved radially outwards from an axis of rotation of the agitator shaft 60, for example by being located near or adjacent to an outer edge of the lid or upper wall element 5d of the tank 5. More generally, any sensor assembly(ies) can be provided with a position offset laterally (outwards) relative to the position of propellers or agitator elements carried by the shaft 60. Device 1 can be instrumented by having various sensors. Device 1 can include a control means CM capable of controlling at least one of the following: an output flow from tank 5 of moistened binder 63, the flow of plant aggregate 62 and the determined flow of dry binder 61 obtained at outlet 41s, as a function of information representative of the filling level of tank 5, and preferably also as a function of a projection flow command entered (optionally) by a human-machine interface.

[0050] Figure 5 schematically illustrates, with a connection L5, the possibility of connecting the sensor or sensor assembly(ies) C5 to a control and automation unit 120, including the aforementioned control means CM, which can control flow rates or material movements. This unit 120 typically has a set of valves V and / or can activate components of the device to restart or increase the supply of materials used in the mixture to be sprayed (formed by coated particles 15) or, conversely, to slow down or stop one or both of the supply lines, at least in a section thereof. This can also apply to the water supply, which is provided, for example, using a fitting RC1 with a valve, in the non-limiting case of Figure 4. In general, any water inlet with a solenoid valve or other type of valve can also be controlled using the unit 120.Optionally, the water inlet can be fitted with a regulating valve and / or a flow meter, which can allow the flow of water or aqueous solution entering tank 5 to be controlled. A valve V10 can be connected to a water inlet pipe via fitting RC1.

[0051] The control and automation unit 120 can also be linked to sensors fitted to the hoppers of the dosing stages 41 and 42, for example, to control the MT conveying means based on the fill level in the hoppers of these respective stages 41 and 42. The L5 connection can be used so that the control means CM restarts the conveyor that moves the dry binder 41 and thus improves / increases the filling of the dosing stage 41, the output flow rate of which can then be increased. This L5 connection can also be used in the opposite situation where the supply of dry binder 61 is adequate or already high compared to the supply of lightweight aggregate 62, for example, by stopping the conveyor supplying the lightweight aggregate 62 and delaying the dosing stage 42.

[0052] Upstream of the tank 5, the device 1 can restart / start the MT conveying means, for example by starting a conveyor when the level in the hopper for dry binder 61 is low. A bag B1 can then be raised and unloaded to provide a sufficient flow rate of dry binder, which is optionally maintained at a predetermined level at the outlet 41s of the first dosing stage 4L. Similarly, it is also possible to start the other conveyor associated with the second dosing stage 42 when the level in the hopper for plant aggregate 62 is low. A bag B2 of plant aggregate 62 can then be raised and unloaded to provide a sufficient flow rate of plant aggregate 62, which is optionally maintained at a predetermined level at the outlet 42s of the second dosing stage 42.The US blower unit is coupled to a flexible hose, possibly with a larger cross-section than another hose used for the moistened binder 62, and forming or connecting to the conduit C2, which . allows the sending of light aggregate 62 in an airflow towards the junction J to then allow the projection of the mixture with the aggregate coated by the moistened binder, as described later.

[0053] The MT transport means and each dosing stage 41, 42 may also include: - at least one sensor, for example to detect a low filling level of a hopper; - a bag counting module; - an interface module to alert of an insufficient level, to allow for example to deposit an additional bag in a loading area of ​​MT means of transport; - a link with an input interface that records a projection flow rate command (for example to differentiate between low flow rate operation and high flow rate operation). It is understood that device 1 can operate with relatively large flow rates, for example, exceeding 4 to 6 m3 / h of consumption (flow rate) in light aggregate 62 (for example, hemp), and / or exceeding 1 to 3 m3 / h of consumption (flow rate) in dry binder 61 (for example, lime).

[0054] The series association of the first part of the MT transport means dedicated to the transport of the dry binder 61, the first dosing stage 41 and the tank 5 with the agitator equipment 6 and the pump 7, makes it possible to constitute an automated supply line to prepare and deliver the flow F5 of moistened binder into the supply pipe or conduit Cl connecting to the junction J, here provided on the lance 8 for example. [Fig.3] shows, by three arrows, the path of the dry binder 61 which follows a trajectory with a reversal, insofar as the screw VI of the first dosing stage 41 can circulate this dry binder 61 in the opposite direction to its direction of supply on the screener or similar discharge zone from the top of this dosing stage 4L. In this non-limiting example, the thicker arrows on the left of [Fig.3] show a path of the remnants of packaging / bags B2 which may have been cut.

[0055] The second part of the MT transport means dedicated to transporting the plant aggregate 60, the second dosing stage 42 and the plant aggregate transfer part 44 located downstream of the second dosing stage 42 (to supply the lance 8 with the accelerated flow of plant aggregate 62), can also be automated, using sensors, by forming a plant aggregate 62 supply line. For this second supply line (of hemp or any suitable lightweight aggregate 62), the machine or device 1 can offer the operator input, for example on a touch screen, of the type of plant aggregate and the length of the blowing hose, forming a long conduit C2 up to the lance 8, put in place for example on an outlet 42s of the second dosing stage 42. Advantageously, a compactor 30 or other equipment for processing the remains of Bl, B2 bags can be common to both dosing stages 41, 42, so that the compactor 30 illustrated in [Fig.3] for collecting B1 bags can also collect B2 bags which return to the temporary reception area of ​​container T30, as can be understood from [Fig. 1]. Example of automated operation

[0056] Upstream of the tank, the device 1 can discharge, using the transport means MT, the solid materials into the first dosing stage 41 and the second dosing stage 42, respectively: no liquid is required in these stages 41 and 42. Conversely, the tank 5 is filled with aqueous liquid / water, possibly as soon as operations start. The tank 5 has a lower, first filling zone Za, where an agitator element (lower propeller in the example of [Fig. 4]) of the agitator equipment 6 extends. The liquid can thus be set in motion, for example by forming a central vortex, when the solid dry binder 62 is poured (typically in powder form) from the top (via an opening in the lid 5c) to join the liquid and mix with the water. The multi-level (stepped) arrangement of several stirring elements 6a, 6b can optimize the dispersion rate of dry binder particles in water.In the case of a binder in the form of lime, a lime slurry is obtained.

[0057] In preferred embodiments, the propellers have blades which: - in the stirring element 6a (typically the lowest), are designed by moving upwards (for example gradually) away from the axis of rotation, - in the stirring element 6b (higher than the stirring element 6a), are designed by descending (progressively) away from the axis of rotation. In embodiment options, a pushback effect along a direction of the rotation shaft 60 can be permitted, by choosing the helix structure in each agitator element 6a, 6b, respectively, so that the mass of mixed mixture in the zone Za is pushed back (by the first element 6a) to another zone Zb placed higher where the agitator element 6b extends, and so that the mass of mixed mixture in the zone Zb is pushed back (by the second element 6b) to the first filling zone Za.

[0058] The agitator equipment 6 may have a design with propellers that are oriented in opposite directions (as in the case of [Fig. 4] for example), so that the agitator element 6a (which may be located at the bottom) has an upward propulsion / displacement effect on the mixture and the agitator element 6b (which may be located at the top among the agitator elements or which is the agitator element mounted slightly higher than element 6a) has a downward propulsion / displacement effect on the mixture. In some options, the blades can be arranged at 45° to a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the agitator shaft 60.

[0059] Preferably, the water filling through inlet 51 occurs until a threshold is reached or exceeded, which may, for example, exceed at least one of the stirring elements 6a, 6b, optionally exceeding the highest of the stirring elements 6a, 6b after the addition of the dry binder. Such a threshold allows the liquid / water to rapidly fill the second filling zone Zb located above the first filling zone Za. Optionally, a first stirring element 6a is located in zone Za, being submerged, and a second stirring element 6b (attached to the same shaft 60) is located in zone Zb, also being submerged.

[0060] A counting unit can be used to count the number of bags that have been torn / cut, in order to account for the quantity of solids poured into the hoppers via the discharge zone onto the screener (with vibrating plates 9a, 9b). The dry binder 61 and the lightweight aggregate 62 are dosed, with the tank 5 being filled by the addition of the dry binder 61, which is then stirred with water. The sensor unit C5 can include a high-level sensor – for example, higher than the upper propeller or stirring element 6b – and a low-level sensor (located lower than this stirring element 6b), which provides fill-level data that can supplement recording data relating to the quantities of solids poured into the dosing stages 41, 42, possibly with data on the quantity or flow rate of water poured via the inlet 51.

[0061] To enable projection, device 1 simultaneously uses: - the US blower unit with the transfer section 44, for example made in the form of a lock, to carry out conveying via pipe / duct C2, - and the pump 7, typically connected to the tank 5 at the level of the filling zone Za, to carry out a conveyance by pipe / conduit Cl, preferably with the use of a flow meter for the control of the flow F5. The connection with junction J of conduits Cl and C2 allows for the production of the moistened binder-plant aggregate mixture. The dry binder 61 has a mineral component, such as lime or a similar air-bound binder. Alternatively, clay or a predominantly hydraulic binder (e.g., quick-setting cement) can be used. The plant aggregate 62 is typically organic but may also include a mineral component (e.g., expanded clay or pumice). It is understood that the dry binder 61 contains primarily one or more compounds including an alkaline earth element. The moistening of this dry binder 61 can be considered complete, thanks to the use of the instrumented tank 5.

[0062] With reference to [Fig. 6], partial or total coating of the plant aggregate particles 62 is achieved from the connection / junction J, and throughout the transfer of the lightweight concrete / final mix through a conduit 80b or nozzle, as well as outside the conduit 80 to the surface onto which the product is applied. The transfer conduit 80b may be cylindrical or optionally have a restricted cross-section. Notwithstanding, the transfer conduit 80b may be portable and allows the forming product, consisting of the coated particles 15 and the moistened binder 63, to be projected. The opening formed at the outlet end 80c of the conduit 80b is preferably sufficiently large to prevent premature agglomeration between the coated particles 15. The cross-sectional area of ​​the outlet 80c preferably exceeds 20 cm² and may optionally be smaller than the cross-sectional area provided at the junction J.

[0063] In one embodiment, the connection J can be formed on the side of a first conduit Cl for the transport of the moistened binder 63. This is a connection J which is simple and provided near the outlet 80c of the conduit 80, for example at a distance d less than or equal to one meter. The second conduit C2 can be inclined at an acute angle with respect to a central axis D8 defined by the first conduit Cl near the connection J. This central axis D8 corresponds here to an injection axis of the moistened binder 63 conveyed by the first conduit Cl (which may include a part of the flexible hose for sending the moistened binder) and can be confused with a central axis defined at the outlet 80c of the conduit 80. Of course, the connection of the two conduits Cl and C2 can be made in different forms and the case of [Fig.6] is not limiting for the type of junction that is formed near the outlet 80c. An 80a fitting, for example male, can be used to connect the flexible hose forming the Cl conduit to a rigid connection fitting provided on the lance 8. Cleaning

[0064] With reference to Figures 3 and 5, the tank 5 can be cleaned when a cleaning cycle is activated. The device may include a control cabinet or interface that signals a need for cleaning of the tank 5, for example, when a spraying cycle is completed or when a pause in operation has exceeded a threshold. The control and automation unit 120 has a switching control interface MV to switch from a tank filling mode to a tank cleaning mode. The switching control interface MV is linked to one or more valves V10, V20 of a set of valves V, which allows the unit 120 to initiate a cleaning cycle or mode for the tank 5. In parallel with the water inlet 51, the tank 5 may have cleaning means T, RC2, 90 for spraying a liquid that is directed onto the shaft 60 with its stirring element(s) 6a, 6b, for example with one or more downward-directed water jets. Spraying can be carried out from the top of the tank 5, from a connection RC2 which can be linked to a reservoir T or a water supply source, via a supply line VN which can provide pressurized water, towards a spray nozzle 90. The spray nozzle, for example carried by the lid or upper wall element 5c of the tank 5, can protrude downwards into the closed volume V5, in a closed configuration of the tank 5.

[0065] During a cleaning cycle, the tank 5 can be in an open configuration with a lower access point to allow the rinsed material to be discharged with the cleaning fluid. For this purpose, the tank 5 has, for example, a lower drain port 09, provided in a bottom 5a, below a rotating shaft of the pump 7 and / or below the agitator element 6a carried by the shaft 60. To allow selective opening of the port 09 or of a conduit underlying this port 09, the tank 5 can include a lower tubular conduit forming a support for a valve 9 or a mechanism with a flap or shutter, selectively allowing drainage through the port 09. A mechanism for moving the shutter, typically in the form of a valve 9, can be carried by the tank 5, for example at the level of this lower tubular conduit which allows drainage / discharge during cleaning. It can be advantageous to position each stirring element 6a, 6b axially between the base 5a and the spray nozzle 90, intersecting one or more downward jets propelled by the spray nozzle 90. A substantially vertically aligned arrangement of two elements 6a, 6b and the nozzle 90 can be provided. Water consumption during cleaning can be reduced.

[0066] In response to an alert signal / display or a signal / display indicating a need for cleaning, the operator can initiate the cleaning cycle, causing the control and automation unit 120 to transmit a command to stop all supply of solid material / binder 61 through the opening 05 and to shut off the inlet 51 (via the RC1 fitting in the case of [Fig. 4]). Water is then sent through the spray / wash nozzle 90 to clean the tank 5. The valve 9, which serves as a drain / sewer valve, opens to discharge the wash water. A rinsing phase can be implemented and / or the cleaning can be completed by starting the pump 7 to extend the cleaning to the pipe / conduit Cl for the moistened binder 63.

[0067] In optional configurations, for implementing cleaning or for delaying the power supply during projection (for example, when approaching the end of a projection cycle), the MC control means can actuate: - a stop of the first dosing stage 41 and / or of a first part of conveying supplying this first dosing stage 41, in order to stop the determined flow of dry binder 61; - and a stop of the second dosing stage 42 and / or of a second conveying part feeding the second dosing stage 41 in order to stop the flow of plant granulate 62.

[0068] In an active mode of the mixer including the tank 5, the MC control means provided in the unit 120 can be coupled to the MV interface to maintain: - a first VIO valve element in an open state to allow water to be supplied to tank 5 with an adjustable flow rate, - a second valve element V20 closed, so that it blocks a cleaning path VN which can be fluidically connected to the closed volume V5. Alternatively, in another mode corresponding to the cleaning of tank 5, this control means MC modifies the configuration of device 1, so that: the first valve element VIO is closed, while the second valve element V20 is open to allow the flow of a cleaning liquid (via the spray nozzle 90). In this latter case, the control means MC can first initiate the shutdown phase of the first dosing stage 41 and the second dosing stage 42.

[0069] These arrangements minimize the monitoring tasks for the operator(s). Optionally, several bags Bl, B2 can be unloaded into a pair of loading zones. From such a loading zone, forming one end of the MT transport means (rear end, opposite the dosing stages 41, 42): the dry binder 61 can be transported and poured without human intervention, on the one hand, and the plant aggregate 62 can be transported and poured without human intervention, on the other. Mixing in the tank 5 can thus be achieved in a preparation phase that only requires the effort of depositing bags Bl, B2 into a lower part of the device 1, typically located lower than the top access to the respective hoppers of the dosing stages 41 and 42. The sensor(s) allow for indicating that a tank fill level is below a threshold hs, which can mean that the preparation phase is not yet complete.Therefore, the operator enters the command and control parameters of the preparation / projection process and can wait for information to be delivered before starting the projection, which can then be done continuously.

[0070] In device 1, as shown in [Fig. 2], the first dosing stage 41 may have a height H1 greater than 50 or 60 cm and may be smaller or narrower than the second dosing stage 42, for example, by being less wide and less tall (smaller vertical dimension). The height of the second dosing stage 42 may be greater than or equal to 90 or 100 cm. The ratio H1:H2 may be less than 0.75, possibly less than or equal to 0.6. This may facilitate the integration of the tank 5 under the first dosing stage 4L Screeners for these two dosing stages 41, 42 can however be located at the same height level, at the same distance from a horizontal bottom or platform P10 provided on the support structure 3. The length of the platform P10 can remain less than 5 meters, for example on the order of 4 meters or less in no way limiting.

[0071] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, only by way of example, but encompasses all the variants that a person skilled in the art may consider within the framework of the protection sought. For example, various methods can be used to estimate one or more fill levels, using a sensor. Furthermore, the type of lance 8 shown in [Fig. 6] is not limiting, as the junction J can be arranged differently. If necessary, additional inlets can be provided on the lance, for example, to add an additive flow and / or additional water or binder. Any suitable portable spraying equipment can be used by connecting to the two parallel supply lines of the device 1, respectively for plant-based granules 62 and moistened binder 63.

Claims

Demands

1. Device (1) for preparing and projecting a multi-material stream including a plant aggregate (62) and a moistened binder (63), the device (1) being provided with a support structure (3) and comprising, on the support structure (3): - a first dosing stage (41) supplied with dry binder (61), which is preferably in the form of lime, in order to provide a determined flow rate of dry binder (61); - a second dosing stage (42) supplied with plant aggregate (62), a plant aggregate transfer portion (44) being placed downstream of the second dosing stage (42) which provides a flow rate of plant aggregate (62); - a tank (5) for preparing the moistened binder (63), comprising an inlet (51) for water (W) or aqueous solution and an inlet (52) for dry binder in communication with the first dosing stage (41);- an agitator unit (6), having a vertical agitator shaft (60), coupled to the tank (5) to mix, in a closed volume (V5) of the tank, the water (W) with said binder continuously; and - a pneumatic conveying channel, at the level of which a flow of moistened binder (F5) exiting the tank (5) via a tank outlet (07) joins a flow of plant granulate (F4) propelled from the transfer part (44), preferably being propelled by use of a blower unit mounted on a platform (P10) of said structure (3) which supports the tank and each of the dosing stages; and - at least one sensor (C5) provided in the tank (5), allowing to indicate that a filling level of the tank is below a threshold (hs);in which the tank (5) has a first lower filling zone (Za), where an agitator element (6a) of the agitator equipment (6) extends, and a second filling zone (Zb) located above the first filling zone (Za), knowing that the threshold is set to represent a height level (hs), which is higher than the first filling zone (Za) where the tank outlet (07) is located.

2. Device according to claim 1, comprising a control means (CM) capable of controlling at least one of the following: a flow rate exiting the tank (5) of moistened binder (63), the flow rate of plant granules (62) and the determined flow rate of dry binder (61), based on information representative of the tank filling level (5).

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first dosing stage (41) and the second dosing stage (41) are: - adjacent and mounted on the platform of the support structure (3), on the same side with respect to the blower unit also mounted on said platform; and - each provided with an elongated feed hopper along the same direction (X).

4. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the tank outlet (07) incorporates or is traversed by a rotating member, rotating about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the agitator shaft (60), which is part of a pump (7) for distributing an outgoing flow (F5) of moistened binder (63) with a flow rate adjusted according to the rotation of said rotating member, the pump (7) having, outside the tank (5), a termination fitting for attaching a flexible connecting hose separate from the pneumatic conveying path.

5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the dry binder inlet (52) is formed by a descending conduit extending from the first dosing stage (41) to join an upper opening (05) of the tank (5), such that the tank is underlying the first dosing stage (41), and wherein the tank (5) has a lid or upper wall element (5c), which includes the upper opening (05) and on which is fixed a means (6d) for rotating the vertical stirring shaft (60).

6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the tank (5) has a lid or upper wall element (5c), provided with a movable element (5d) which is: - provided with a handle (55); - and preferably mounted articulated on a hinge (CH); the movable element (5d) being offset by and complementary to a fixed horizontal part carrying a means (6d) for driving the vertical stirring shaft (60) in rotation.

7. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one sensor (C5) has several sensitive parts or probes (50) to detect at least two distinct filling levels, and wherein the agitator equipment (6) has a first agitator element (6a) forming the agitator element which extends into the first filling zone (Za) and a second agitator element (6b) which occupies, on the agitator shaft (60), a higher position extending into the second filling zone (Zb), one of the probes (50) being configured to detect a filling level located higher than the second agitator element (6b).

8. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the agitator equipment (6) has a first agitator element (6a) forming the agitator element which extends into the first filling zone (Za) and a second agitator element (6b) which occupies, on the agitator shaft (60), a higher position extending into the second filling zone (Zb), and wherein the second agitator element (6b) is configured with a propeller effect of propulsion which is in the opposite direction to a propeller effect of propulsion of the first agitator element (6a), by which, during operation of the tank (5): - a portion of the mixture, mixed in the second filling zone (Zb), can be forced downwards by the second agitator element (6b), therefore towards the first filling zone;and - a portion of the mixture, mixed in the first filling zone (Za), can be forced upwards by the first agitator element (6a), therefore towards the second filling zone.;

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tank (5) is wider than it is tall and has a tubular side wall (5b) having a continuous curvature over at least two angular sectors each representing more than 100°, and wherein the tank (5) is traversed by a hollow element, perpendicular to the stirring shaft and forming a motorized rotating shaft which is connected to a screw for evacuating the moistened binder (63).

10. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tank (5) includes: - cleaning means (T, RC2, 90) for spraying a liquid from the top of the tank (5), the cleaning means (T, RC2, 90) including a downward-projecting spray nozzle (90). in the closed volume (V5), in a closed configuration of the tank (5); - a lower purge orifice (09), provided in a bottom (5a) of the tank (5).

11. Device according to claim 10, wherein the tank (5) further includes: - in an axially interposed position between the bottom (5a) and the spray nozzle (90), at least one stirring element (6a, 6b) carried by the vertical stirring shaft (60).

12. Device according to claim 2, alone or in combination with any one of claims 3 to 11, wherein the control means (MC) enables the first dosing stage (41) and / or a first conveying section supplying the first dosing stage (41) to be stopped in order to stop the predetermined flow of dry binder (61), and the second dosing stage (42) and / or a second conveying section supplying the second dosing stage (42) to be stopped in order to stop the flow of plant aggregate (62), the control means (MC) belonging to a control and automation unit (120) which has a set of valves (V) and enables switching between: - a first mode corresponding to mixing, in which a first valve element (V10) of said set is open to allow water to be supplied to the tank (5) with an adjustable flow rate,while a second valve element (V20) of said valve assembly (V) closes a cleaning passage (VN) in fluidic connection with the closed volume (V5); - and a second mode corresponding to a cleaning of the tank (5), in which the first valve element (V10) of said assembly is closed, while the second valve element (V20) of said valve assembly (V) is open to allow the flow of a cleaning fluid; knowing that the second mode is activated by the control and automation unit (120) during a shutdown phase of the first dosing stage (41) and the second dosing stage (42).

13. Use of the device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the dry binder contains lime, the device (1) comprising a control and automation unit (120) designed to automate the preparation of the multi-material mixture composition to be sprayed, including the plant aggregate (62) and the moistened binder (63), and wherein at least one sensor (C5) is part of a group of sensors enabling the control and automation unit (120) to provide representative data of a filling level both for dry binder (61) being conveyed to the tank (5), in a detection zone located on said platform (P10) and for moistened binder (63) present in the closed volume (V5) of the tank (5).

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