Device for delivering an annular fluid jet

Abstract

A 1A device (1) for delivering an annular fluid jet, comprising a body having a pressure chamber (3) provided with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet (7), and a rotor (1) having an upper part, a bottom part, a rotation axis (15), and a fluid flow path (CPQ), wherein the fluid flow path (CPQ) includes a fluid inlet (EP) located at the upper part of the rotor on the axis (15) for receiving fluid from the fluid outlet (7) of the body, an outlet (SPQ) located at the bottom of the rotor (1) with a space left from the axis (15), and a spiral flow path providing fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet configured to rotate the rotor about the axis (15) when the fluid is pushed through the flow path, a rotor (1), and a fixture for rotatably mounting the rotor (1). The fixture is disposed within the pressure chamber (3), the rotor (1) comprises an axle (10) extending through the fluid outlet (7) of the pressure chamber (3), and the axle is suspended from the fixture so as to rotate relative to the fixture about the rotation axis (15). The fixture comprises a socket (13) having a central opening (14), the axle (10) extends through the central opening and comprises a ball (11), and the ball (11) is configured to be nested within the socket (13) for rotation of the ball (11) and the axle (10) relative to the socket (13).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for delivering an annular fluid jet and a fluid projection device comprising a device for delivering an annular fluid jet such as a shower head.

Background Art

[0002] There are various fluid projection devices such as single jets or multi-jets, annular or non-annular jets, those with or without particles, for example, shower heads, guns, hoses) and projection nozzles. Annular jet devices generate an annular jet that creates an annular impact and (i) processes a larger surface and (ii) enables a higher energy and more effective impact on the target. These annular jet devices have interesting technical performance and operating costs.

[0003] According to document FR2934508 A1 (RAISSI KADDOUR [FR]), the fluid projection device generates a plurality of annular jets at once, so the processing performance is enhanced. These annular jets are configured according to the solution of FIG. 4. The jet ejected by the orifice (OP) flows through a flow path that extends from the upper inlet (EP) to the lower outlet (SPQ) through the rotor (RP). The flow path is configured to rotate the rotor under the influence of the flow passing through the flow path (for example, the flow path takes a helical path through the rotor). The rotor is attached to bearings arranged along both sides of the rotor.

[0004] However, considering the conditions of being used in an aggressive and non-clean environment and often being exposed to a fluid flow with particles, this device faces problems of fouling and friction at the position of the rotating part. Scale deposition and corrosion occur on the bearing surface, causing friction and resistance to the swirling motion of the rotor. The friction generated by the flange strongly disturbs the rotation of the rotor (RP), so the situation is not improved even when using a sealed bearing.

[0005] Contamination of this system of rollers or friction bearings causes friction that hinders the rotation of the rotor, reduces the reliability of the device, makes it less robust, prevents industrial utilization potential, and closes market entry.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to overcome at least one of the above-described problems.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] This object is met by providing a device for delivering an annular fluid jet similar to the device of FR2934508 A1. However, unlike the device of FR2934508 A1 where the fixture is a bearing encompassing the axle of the rotor, the present invention uses a ball and socket type bearing arrangement to suspend the rotor, the fixture comprises a socket, the rotor comprises balls configured to be nested within the socket, the socket supports the weight of the rotor, and enables rotation of the ball / axle / rotor relative to the socket. This embodiment is shown in FIGS. 20 and 21.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a device for delivering an annular fluid jet, comprising a body having a pressure chamber provided with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, and a fluid flow path having an upper portion, a bottom portion, a rotating shaft, and a fluid inlet located above the upper portion of a shaft-mounted rotor for receiving fluid from the fluid outlet of the body, an outlet located at the bottom of the rotor with a space provided from the shaft), and a spiral flow path configured to provide fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet so as to rotate the rotor about the shaft when the fluid is pushed through the flow path, a rotor, and a fixture for rotatably mounting the rotor.

[0010] The device of the present invention is characterized in that the fixture is disposed within the pressure chamber, the rotor comprises an axle extending through the fluid outlet of the pressure chamber, and the axle is suspended from the fixture so as to rotate relative to the fixture about the rotating shaft.

[0011] In any embodiment, the fixture comprises a socket having a central opening, the axle extends through the central opening, and the ball is mounted around the axle configured to be nested within the socket for rotation of the ball and the axle relative to the socket.

[0012] The socket is substantially concave in shape and, in one embodiment, comprises a hemispherical depression. However, it may also comprise a conical or frustoconical depression.

[0013] In any embodiment, the ball is spherical. In other embodiments, the ball may be hemispherical or may comprise a hemispherical bottom. In other embodiments, the ball has a convex bottom.

[0014] In any embodiment, the bearing surface of the fixture comprises a ball bearing or a roller bearing.

[0015] In some embodiments, the device comprises an axle guide disposed within a pressure chamber between the fixture and the fluid outlet. The axle guide may be, for example, a bearing that surrounds a portion of the axle to limit lateral movement of the axle during rotation about a rotational axis (ZP).

[0016] In another embodiment, the device of the present invention is provided by a spinning top (TP) in which the rotor has a rotational axis (ZP) and a shaft (AP) located along the rotational axis (ZP), and the fixture comprises a guide cavity (DP) and a seat cavity (BP) disposed within a pressure chamber (CH), and the shaft (AP) is mounted to rotate about the rotational axis (ZP) between the guide cavity and the seat cavity.

[0017] The guide cavity and the seat cavity are generally configured to allow some play between the respective ends of the shaft and the bore. Generally, the play includes axial play of the shaft with respect to the support cavity. The play generally also includes some lateral play between one or both ends of the axial shaft and the cavity.

[0018] In some embodiments, the helical flow path comprises a portion of a plurality of straight flow path portions arranged in a helical path with ends connected to each other.

[0019] In some embodiments, the helical flow path is tapered inwardly or outwardly from the inlet to the outlet.

[0020] In some embodiments, the rotor (RP) comprises a plurality of flow paths. The flow paths typically comprise a common inlet (EP), an upper portion, and separate flow path outlets (SP1, SP2, ··· SPQ) located in a lower portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the ends of the shaft (AP) and of the guide cavity and of the seat cavity (DP, BP) are configured to provide axial and lateral play between the shaft and the cavities.

[0022] In some embodiments, the ends of the shaft (AP) and of the guide cavity and of the seat cavity (DP, BP) are configured such that the degree of play between the shaft and the guide cavity (DP) is greater than the degree of play between the shaft and the seat cavity (BP).

[0023] In some embodiments, the flow path outlet or each flow path outlet (SPQ) is located on the outer periphery of the bottom of the rotor (RP).

[0024] In some embodiments, the body (K) has an upper portion (2) and a lower portion (4) connected to the upper portion to form a pressure chamber (CH), the lower portion comprising a plurality of fluid outlets (O1, O2, ··· OP) and a plurality of rotor receiving chambers (5), the lower portion comprising an upright support projecting into the pressure chamber (CH) when the upper portion and the lower portion are connected together, and the plurality of guide cavities (DP) being attached to the upright support at spaced-apart relationships.

[0025] In some embodiments, the device comprises a first attachment element (3) connected to the upright support, and the plurality of guide cavities (DP) are connected to the first attachment element (3).

[0026] In some embodiments, the lower portion (4) of the body (K) comprises a second attachment element (6) connected to the bottom of the lower portion of the body (K), and the plurality of seat cavities (BP) are attached to the second attachment element.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first attachment element (3) and the second attachment element (6) are arranged parallel to each other.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first mounting element (3) and / or the second mounting element (6) are provided as spool elements having a central portion and a plurality of arms extending radially outwards from the central portion, each arm comprising a cavity disposed at its end. The cavity may be attached to the arm or formed (e.g., drilled) in the arm.

[0029] In some embodiments, the lower portion comprises at least three rotor receiving chambers (5), each comprising a rotor (RP).

[0030] In some embodiments, the device comprises a handle (1) having a distal end and a through lumen, the distal end of the handle being connected to the body (K) and the lumen being fluidly connected to a pressure chamber (CH).

[0031] In some embodiments, the seat cavity and the guide cavity (DP and BP) are bowl-shaped.

[0032] In some embodiments, the bowl-shaped cavities (DP and BP) are concave or funnel-shaped.

[0033] In some embodiments, the rotor has a fully or partially cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, the rotor has a frustoconical shape.

[0034] In some embodiments, each end of the shaft (AP) is tapered inwards towards the axial tip. The tip may be, for example, funnel-shaped or concave.

[0035] In another aspect, the present invention provides a fluid projection device comprising one or more devices according to the present invention.

[0036] The device according to the present invention can improve the above problems by proposing a new, highly reliable and robust solution for generating an annular jet, even when there is a fluid with or without particles introduced, for example, even if the rotating parts are fouled by deposits such as scale. Therefore, new prospects and opportunities for the industrial use of the device according to the present invention become possible.

[0037] This device provides a new solution for generating an annular jet without using a roller bearing or a friction bearing, which is a bearing considered to be extremely sensitive to fouling in an aggressive and unclean environment. This new solution is inspired by the example of a spinning top that rotates the tip around the axis of rotation until the friction is very small and the rotation stops.

[0038] Therefore, the device according to the present invention is provided with "P" tops (TP) having a specific geometry, each having a lower tip and an upper tip. (Figure 5). These two tips are inserted into two cavities: (i) a lower cavity called "seat cavity (BP)" that receives the lower tip of the shaft and functions as a rotating support for the spinning top (TP), and (ii) an upper cavity called "guide cavity (DP)" that is located within the pressure chamber (CH) upstream of the orifice (OP), receives the upper tip of the shaft, guides the spinning top, and prohibits interference between the spinning top (TP) and the device during rotation. (Figure 12). The seat cavity (BP) should be as thin as possible to avoid changes in the annular jet (OJPQ) after exiting the rotor (SPQ). The attachment and positioning of each spinning top (TP) between the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP) are configured to provide play such as lateral and axial clearances (J1, J2, J3) as shown, for example, in (Figure 12). Each spinning top (TP) is composed of a rotor (RP) incorporated into a shaft (AP) such that their respective axes (e.g., the axis of the spinning top and the axis of the shaft) coincide. (Figure 11). Each spinning top (TP) has an annular inlet (EP) centered on the shaft (AP) that provides access to a flow path (CPQ) provided on the rotor (RP). (Figure 15), (Figure 16), (Figure 17), (Figure 18), and (Figure 19).

[0039] The device according to the present invention, shown above, operates as follows. (Figure 5). Fluid or fluids (particles may or may not be introduced) enter the chamber (CH), are discharged in the form of an annular jet (JAP) through the annular space between the orifice (OP) and the shaft (AP), flow around the shaft (AP) to the fluid inlet (EP), and then cross the flow path (CPQ) where the rotor (RPQ) is provided.

[0040] The flow path (CPQ) is located above each rotor (RP) and extends from a common inlet (EP) centered on the axis (ZP) along a helical trajectory to a separate outlet (SPQ) located on the outer periphery of the bottom of the rotor (RP) (from (Figure 15) to (Figure 19)), whereby the mechanical torque, i.e., the moment, with respect to the axis (ZP) created by the flow of each annular jet (JAP) in these flow paths acts on the spinning top (TP), causing the spinning top to rotate in relation to the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP) and generating an annular jet (JOPQ) at the outlet of the device.

[0041] Similar to the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP), the selection of the material constituting the spinning top (TP) typically strongly regulates the rotation of the spinning top (TP) described above and thus the operation of the device according to the invention. Therefore, in order to ensure the optimal reliability and robustness of this device, these materials preferably have good mechanical resistance and oxidation resistance and must ensure good sliding and rotation at the position of the contact surface between the spinning top (TP), the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP).

[0042] In summary, the device according to the invention implements a highly reliable and robust solution for generating "N" annular jets (OJPQ) even in the presence of a fluid with or without particles being introduced and despite fouling. The device according to the invention has one or more ("P" number of) spinning tops (TP), each composed of a rotor (RP) embedded on a shaft (AP). Each spinning top of this device is provided with an annular input (EP) that supplies a fluid flow path with a helical geometry leading to an output (SPQ) located on the outer periphery of the bottom of the above-described rotor (RP). The positioning and holding of each spinning top (TP) are performed via a seat cavity (BP) and a guide cavity (DP) in which the end of the shaft (AP) is received.

[0043] In some embodiments, the present invention is a device for delivering "N" annular fluid jets (N≥1), with or without particles, suitable for use in applications such as peeling, sandblasting, polishing, shot blasting, cleaning, sweeping, massaging, scrubbing, drying, watering, painting, and atomization. A body (K) having a pressure chamber (CH) provided with an inlet (EF) for a fluid, with or without particles introduced, and "P" orifices (OP), where P≥1. "P" spinning tops (TP), each having a rotation axis (ZP), a shaft (AP) positioned along the rotation axis (ZP), an upper and a bottom, and having "Q" flow paths (CPQ), where Q≥1, and being composed of a rotor (RP). (i) A shared main inlet (EP) centered on an axis (ZP) located at the upper part of the rotor and receiving an annular jet (JAP) from the orifice (OP). (ii) "Q" outputs (SPQ) located at the bottom of the rotor (RP), away from the axis (ZP), where "Q" helical flow paths ensure fluid communication between the shared input (EP) and the output (SPQ), and the spinning top (TP) is configured to rotate around the shaft (AP) when the annular jet (JAP) flows within the above-mentioned flow path or multiple flow paths (CPQ). The device includes "P" spinning tops having these components. The shaft (AP) is attached between a guide cavity (DP) and a seat cavity (BP) located within the pressure chamber (CH) upstream of the orifice (OP), rotates around the rotation axis (ZP), and the connection between each end of the shaft (AP) and the cavities (BP) and (DP) is configured to have play. A device is provided with these features.

[0044] In some embodiments, each helical flow path (CPQ) is composed of portions of several straight ducts arranged along a helical trajectory with their ends connected.

[0045] In some embodiments, each helical channel (CPQ) is convergent or divergent.

[0046] In some embodiments, the respective ends of the shaft (AP), the seat cavity (BP), and the guide cavity (DP) are configured to ensure an axial and a radial (lateral) clearance between the upper end of the shaft (AP) and the guide cavity (DP), as well as a radial clearance between the shaft (AP) and the seat cavity (BP).

[0047] In some embodiments, the output (SPQ) is located on the outer periphery at the bottom of the rotor (RP).

[0048] In some embodiments, the body (K) is composed of an upper portion with a handle (1) provided with an inlet (EF) communicating with the pressure chamber (CH), the upper portion being connected to a lower portion having several orifices (OP) and several chambers (5) used for accommodating the spinning top (TP), the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP) being attached, and further being composed of two support portions (3) and (6) connected to the lower portion by screws (9) and angularly positioned by pins (8).

[0049] In some embodiments, the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP) are in a concave shape, for example, in the form of a bowl or a funnel.

[0050] In some embodiments, each end of the shaft (AP) gradually tapers towards the point on the axis of the shaft (AP) described above.

[0051] In some embodiments, each spinning top (TP), guide cavity (DP), and seat cavity (BP), as well as each orifice (OP) are inclined by an angle (β) with respect to the axis (ZV). In some embodiments, the angle β is between 0° and 20°, preferably between 5° and 10°.

[0052] In some embodiments, each spinning top (TP) is composed of a rotor (RP) embedded on a shaft (AP) by any suitable means, for example, by interference fit, adhesion, or screw-type obstacles.

[0053] In some embodiments, inserts (preferably made of a material having wear resistance and oxidation resistance and ensuring the required sliding and rotation conditions) are incorporated into the lower and upper tips of each shaft (AP), as well as into each seat cavity (BP) and each guide cavity (DP). Examples of suitable materials include stainless steel, ceramics, and some plastics.

[0054] In some embodiments, each spinning top (TP) is made in one piece and has "Q" flow channels (CPQ) with a common inlet (EP) centered on the upper tip located on the axis (ZP), and flow channels (CPQ) that are located at the bottom of the spinning top (TP) and are arranged from its inlet (EP) away from the axis (ZP) to the outlet (SPQ) following a helical trajectory. These flow channels may be convergent or divergent, have a circular or non-circular cross-section, and may be composed of several straight duct portions arranged following a helical trajectory and connected end to end, or may be in a helical form.

[0055] Other aspects and preferred embodiments of the present invention are defined and described in the other claims set forth below.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0056]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

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Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] All publications, patents, patent applications, and other documents described in this specification are specifically and individually indicated as being incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application were set forth in full and its content were fully cited, and the entirety of each is incorporated by reference herein for all purposes.

[0058] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the following terms are intended to have the following meanings in addition to the broader (or narrower) meanings that the terms may enjoy in the relevant art.

[0059] Unless otherwise defined in context, the use of the singular form in this specification is to be read as including the plural form, and vice versa. The terms "a" or "an" used in relation to an entity are to be read as referring to one or more of that entity. Therefore, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more", and "at least one" are used interchangeably in this specification.

[0060] As used herein, the term "comprise", or variations thereof such as "comprises" or "comprising", is to be read as indicating the inclusion of any recited item (e.g., feature, element, characteristic, property, method / process step or limitation) or group of items (e.g., feature, element, characteristic, property, method / process step or limitation) without excluding any other item or group of items. Thus, as used herein, the term "comprising" is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited items or method / process steps.

[0061] As used herein, the term "ball and socket".

[0062] As used herein, the term "spinning top" refers to a rotor having a rotation axis and a shaft that extends sufficiently from both ends of the rotor along the rotation axis of the rotor. The shaft may pass through the rotor and through substantially the center of gravity of the rotor. The rotor is disposed substantially symmetrically around the shaft so as to balance the rotor. The rotor is usually at least partially cylindrical and may be, for example, frustoconical in shape.

[0063] As used herein, the term "cavity" as used in the terms seat cavity and guide cavity refers to a housing having a recess configured to receive an end of a shaft. The cavity generally has a substantially tapered shape inwardly towards its bottom, such as a funnel shape or a concave shape, but may also have a bottom and side walls that are not tapered inwardly. The purpose of the cavity is to receive and support both ends of the shaft and to allow the spinning top to rotate with minimal friction. The ends of the shaft and the cavity are generally configured to allow some play therebetween, preferably axial and lateral play. Illustration

[0064] Next, the present invention will be described with reference to specific examples. These are merely illustrative and for the purpose of explanation only. They are not intended to limit the scope of the exclusive rights claimed or the invention described in any way. These examples constitute the best mode currently contemplated for carrying out the present invention.

[0065] Figures 1 - 3, 5 - 19 depict devices for delivering an annular shower jet. In these devices, the rotor is a spinning top and is mounted between an upper support and a lower support so as to rotate under the force of water passing through a helical flow path within the rotor.

[0066] The devices of Figures 20 and 21 operate on the same principle as the devices described with reference to Figures 1 - 3 and 5 - 19, but have different mounting mechanisms.

[0067] Referring to Figures 1, 2, and 3, different aspects of the device according to the present invention are shown. (i) An aspect having one or more annular jets, and (ii) an aspect for delivering annular jets and / or non - annular jets.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the device according to the present invention comprises a body (K), and the body (K) comprises a chamber (CH) with a fluid inlet and "P" orifices (OP). This device also comprises "P" spinning tops (TP), each consisting of a rotor (RP) embedded on a shaft (AP). The rotor may be connected to the shaft by any suitable means, for example by clamping, adhesion, or by a screw-type obstacle (FIG. 11). Each spinning top (TP) is provided with axial and lateral clearances (J1, J2, J3) and is mounted between two supports, in this case a seat cavity (BP) and a guide cavity (DP), as shown in the drawing (FIG. 12). The upper tip passes through the orifice (OP) and is inserted into the guide cavity (DP) located inside the chamber (CH). The lower tip of the shaft (AP) is inserted into the seat cavity (BP) made in the body (K). This seat cavity (BP) serves as a rotating seat for the lower tip of the shaft.

[0069] The device according to this particular embodiment of the present invention generates "N" annular jets (OJPQ) as follows (FIG. 5). The fluid enters from the inlet (EF) of the pressure chamber (CH) and is first discharged in the form of an annular jet (JAP) through the annular space between the orifice (OP) and the shaft (AP). Each annular jet (JAP) is guided by the shaft (AP) and flows towards the common inlet (EP) of the rotor (RP), where they combine within the flow path (CPQ) of the rotor (RP). Considering the geometry of this flow path, a mechanical moment, i.e., torque, acts on the spinning top (TP) with respect to the axis of rotation (ZP). Provided with axial and lateral clearances (J1, J2, J3) and mounted between the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP), the spinning top (TP) rotates about the axis of rotation (ZP) and generates "N" annular jets (OJPQ).

[0070] In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the body (K) consists of an upper part (2) and a lower part (4), and the device according to the invention comprises an inlet (EF) and a handle (1) embedded in the part (2), which is itself configured to be connected to the part (4) by means of a screw (11) system. The airtightness of the pressure chamber (CH) is ensured by an O-ring (7). Each spinning top (TP) consists of a rotor (RP) and a shaft (AP), is housed in a chamber (5) provided in the lower part (4), and is attached between a seat cavity (BP) and a guide cavity (DP). The seat cavity (BP) is provided on a second support arm (6) connected to the bottom of the lower part (4) by a screw. The guide cavity (DP) is provided on a first support arm (3) attached by a screw to the central column of the lower part (4) extending into the pressure chamber (CH). The above-mentioned parts (3) and (6) are angularly positioned by pins (8). The parts (3) and (6) are made thinner so as to suppress interference with the annular jet at the outlet of the rotor (RP).

[0071] In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the spinning top (TP), the seat cavity (BP), the guide cavity (DP) and the orifice (OP) are inclined by an angle (β) with respect to the axis (ZV). This inclination makes it possible to increase the surface area covered by the impact of the annular jet (OJPQ).

[0072] According to the drawings (Figs. 9, 10 and 11), each spinning top (TP) consists of two parts (shaft (AP) and rotor (RP)) embedded in each other such that the ZP axis of the rotor coincides with the ZAP axis of the shaft. This embedding can be achieved by interference fit, adhesion, screw-type obstacles, etc. In another embodiment, each spinning top (TP) can also be made in one piece by injection molding, 3D printing, or other methods. These spinning tops (TP) are each provided with axial and lateral clearances (J1, J2 and J3) and are mounted between two rotational supports (seat cavity (BP) and guide cavity (DP)) to ensure free rotation around the axis (ZP) (Fig. 12).

[0073] The geometries of the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP), which are the two tips of each spinning top (TP) (in other words, the two ends of the shaft (AP)), are important for the optimal functioning of the device in order to regulate the contact between the tips and the guide cavity (DP) and the seat cavity (BP). These geometries ideally (i) reduce the contact surface and, as a result, reduce the turning resistance of each spinning top (TP), and (ii) make it possible to keep the tips of the above-mentioned spinning top (TP) within the cavities (BP) and (DP) in a given position. As non-limiting examples, (i) the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP) are in a concave shape in the form of a bowl or a funnel, (ii) the contact between the upper tip and the guide cavity (DP) may be of the "male sphere (convex part) - female sphere (concave part, bowl)" type or of the "male cone - female sphere" type, and (iii) the contact between the lower tip of the spinning top and the seat cavity (BP) may be of the "male sphere - female sphere" type or of the "male cone - female sphere" type. Some other contact types are shown in Fig. 13.

[0074] Since it has been found that each spinning top (TP) rotates and its two tips slide and roll within the above-described cavities (BP) and (DP), the materials constituting these parts are usually selected to correspond to these clearances. Therefore, each spinning top (TP), as well as the seat cavity (BP) and the guide cavity (DP) associated with each spinning top (TP), are generally made entirely or partially of a suitable material that is resistant to wear and oxidation, especially at the positions of their contact surfaces, and that guarantees the necessary sliding and rotation conditions. As a non-limiting example, as shown in the drawings (Figure 14), an insert made of a suitable material can be incorporated into the contact area to ensure the proper functioning of the device. Additionally, the outlet (SPQ) of the flow path (CPQ) may be provided with anti-limescale pins to suppress scaling.

[0075] Referring to the drawings (Figure 10), each rotor (RP) has an axially opening hole (PP) used to receive the shaft (AP). This hole may be circular, square, or of other cross-sections. Each rotor (RP) also has a "Q" flow path (CPQ), which is located above the above-described rotor (RP), has a common inlet (EP) at the center on the axis (ZP), and a "Q" outlet (SPQ) located on the outer periphery of the bottom of the above-described rotor (RP). These flow paths (CPQ) extend from the common inlet (EP) to separate outlets (SPQ) following a helical trajectory (Figures 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19). The geometry of the above-described flow path (CPQ) is defined to recover a part of the kinetic energy of the annular jet (JAP) in order to create a mechanical moment (i.e., torque) with respect to the axis of rotation (ZP).

[0076] In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the rotor (RP) is composed of two straight duct portions with their ends connected to each other, and has two flow paths (CP1) and (CP2) arranged according to the helical trajectories to the outputs (SP1) and (SP2). Therefore, when the annular jet (JAP) passes through the above-mentioned rotor (RP) through the inlet (EP), it is divided into two separate jets flowing to the outputs (SP1) and (SP2). The mechanical torque with respect to the axis (ZP) is generated by the fluid flow passing through the flow path and rotationally drives the spinning top (TP).

[0077] As a non-limiting example, the flow path (CPQ) is composed of (i) several straight duct portions arranged according to a helical trajectory with their ends connected to each other (FIGS. 17 and 18), (ii) helical or spiral (FIGS. 15, 16 and 19), (iii) convergent or divergent, and the cross-section may be circular or non-circular. In another example of realizing the rotor (RP), the flow path (CPQ) can be replaced by a blade or a plurality of blades.

[0078] The performance of the device according to the present invention depends on the rotational speed (P) of the spinning top (TP). This rotational speed affects the interaction time between the annular jet (JOPQ) and the surface to be processed. Therefore, if the rotational speed (P) is very fast, insufficient time is obtained for the jet to act on the target surface. Conversely, if the rotational speed (P) is very low, the processing area per unit time decreases. Therefore, considering the importance of the rotational speed (P), the device according to the present invention may be provided with a system for adjusting the rotational speed of the spinning top (TP) in the form of a mechanical brake, a hydraulic brake, a magnetic brake, etc.

[0079] While the jet flows through the flow path (CPQ), the jet may experience some deviations and generate strong vortices, as a result of which the pressure and coherence may be significantly impaired. In order to reduce such vortices even without removing them when they occur, the following different solutions are possible. (i) Provide non-circular parts such as squares, triangles, hexagons or other parts over all or part of the length of the flow path (CPQ), (ii) Integrate with the flow path (CPQ) of the flow rectifier.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, a further embodiment of the device of the present invention is described, in which the rotor 1 is substantially the same as that already described, but the device comprises different types of fixtures for the rotor. First referring to FIG. 20, the device comprises a housing 2 having an upper housing 3 functioning as a pressure chamber with a fluid inlet and a lower housing 4 having an open end 5. The upper housing 3 is separated from the lower housing 4 by a partition wall 6 having a liquid outlet 7. The rotor 1 comprises an axle 10, and a ball 11 is coaxially mounted at the upper end of the axle. The upper housing 3 comprises a fixture in the form of a support arm 12 projecting laterally of the upper housing and having a socket 13 with a central opening 14. The socket 13 and the liquid outlet 7 are aligned along a common axis 15. The axle 10 of the rotor 1 projects through the liquid outlet 7, and the ball 11 is nested within the socket 13 to support and suspend the rotor from the fixture for rotation about the axis 15.

[0081] The socket 13 comprises a frustoconical depression and a roller bearing 20 for reducing the friction when the ball 11 rotates within the socket. It will be understood that the socket may have various shapes as long as it supports the ball and allows the ball to rotate freely. When assembled, the ball, axle, and rotor are suspended along the axis 15.

[0082] In use, the fluid (liquid in this embodiment) is supplied to the upper housing 3 under pressure via the fluid inlet, and due to the pressure within the housing, the liquid passes in a jet state through the liquid outlet 7 around the axle 10 and flows to the inlet of the helical conduit (not shown, described above) of the rotor. Thereby, the rotor 1 rotates relative to the fixture, generating a jet of atomized water droplets that exit the device through the open end 5 of the lower housing 4. Providing the fixture in the form of a ball and socket type bearing arrangement is an efficient way to attach a rotor for rotation in a wet environment that reduces wear and cracks compared to the bearing arrangement of FR2934508 A1.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 21, an alternative embodiment of the device of the present invention is described, and the same reference numerals are assigned to the parts previously described with reference to FIG. 20. In this embodiment, which is substantially the same as FIG. 20, the upper housing comprises an axle guide 22 with an arm 23 protruding laterally into the upper housing 3 having a bore 24 dimensioned to receive the axle 10. The bore is slightly wider than the width of the axle, providing clearance for rotation of the axle within the bore, while providing sufficient clearance around the axle to allow for normal operating vibration levels. The axle guide functions to maintain the axle in a predetermined position along the axis of rotation of the rotor.

[0084] The device according to the present invention is intended, in particular, to project a fluid jet with or without particles for carrying out operations such as sandblasting, peeling, polishing, shot blasting, cleaning, sweeping, scrubbing, massaging, drying, watering, painting, atomizing, etc. Equivalent

[0085] The foregoing description has detailed the presently preferred embodiments of the present invention. Considering these descriptions, those skilled in the art will expect numerous modifications and variations to occur in their implementation. These modifications and variations are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

Claim 1 A device (1) for delivering an annular fluid jet, comprising: a body having a pressure chamber (3) provided with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet (7); a rotor (1) having an upper part, a bottom part, a rotation axis (15), and a fluid flow path (CPQ), wherein the fluid flow path (CPQ) has a fluid inlet (EP) located at the upper part of the rotor on the axis (15) for receiving fluid from the fluid outlet (7) of the body, an outlet (SPQ) located at the bottom part of the rotor (1) with a space provided from the axis (15), and a spiral flow path that provides fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet configured to rotate the rotor about the axis (15) when the fluid is pushed through the flow path; a rotor (1); a fixture for rotatably mounting the rotor (1), wherein the fixture is disposed within the pressure chamber (3), the rotor (1) comprises an axle (10) extending into the pressure chamber (3) through the fluid outlet (7), and the axle is suspended from the fixture for rotation relative to the fixture about the rotation axis (15). A device (1). Claim 2 The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the fixture comprises a socket (13) having a central opening (14), the axle (10) extends through the central opening and comprises a ball (11), and the ball (11) is configured to be nested within the socket (13) for rotation of the ball and the axle relative to the socket. Claim 3 The device according to claim 2, wherein the ball (11) is spherical or hemispherical. Claim 4 The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bearing surface of the fixture comprises a ball or roller bearing. Claim 5 The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an axle guide (22) disposed within the pressure chamber (3) between the fixture and the fluid outlet (7). Claim 6 The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the spiral flow path comprises a part of a plurality of straight flow path portions arranged in a spiral path and having ends connected to each other. Claim 7 The helical flow path is tapered inwardly or outwardly from the inlet towards the outlet, the device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The rotor (RP) comprises a plurality of flow paths, each having a common inlet (EP), an upper portion, and separate branched lower portions (SP1, SP2...), the device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The flow path outlet or each flow path outlet (SPQ) is located on the outer periphery of the bottom of the rotor (RP), the device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. Comprising a handle (1) having a distal end and a through lumen, the distal end of the handle being connected to the body (K), the lumen being in fluid communication with the pressure chamber (CH), the device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The rotor has a frustoconical shape, the device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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