Storage and Retrieval Systems for Bulk Materials

Abstract

The present invention relates to a storage and recovery system (100) for bulk material (102). The system (100) includes a bulk material holding space (104) having a bottom (108) with a discharge port (106). The bottom (108) includes an inclined support plate (112) for supporting the bulk material (102) and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material (102) toward the discharge port (106). The support plate (112) is supported by a support structure (114) in a free-floating manner. One or more vibrators (116) are connected to the support plate (112) and configured to transmit vibrational energy to the support plate (112) to induce vibrational motion of the support plate (112). An intermediate layer (122) having vibration-insulating properties is disposed between the support structure (114) and the support plate (112). The support structure (114) is damped to the main structure (150) by at least one structural vibration damper (126). An abutment vibration damper (130) is disposed between the support plate (112) and the support structure (114) and configured to prevent downward translation of the support plate (112) toward the discharge port (106). A vessel (200), onshore storage (300), and hopper (400) including the system (100) are also provided. Use of the system (100) for handling bulk material (102) is also provided.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage and recovery system for bulk materials, the system comprising a bulk material holding space having a bottom with a discharge port, the invention also relates to the use of the system, and to ships, land-based storage, and hoppers comprising the system. [Background technology]

[0002] Today, a significant amount of cargo is transported around the world using large naval vessels or ships capable of traveling long distances across the open ocean. Similarly, a significant amount of cargo is transported over more moderate distances using inland waterways such as rivers and lakes. The large volume of cargo results in large amounts of cargo that must be handled and stored, for example, in connection with reloading.

[0003] When transporting bulk cargo or loads such as coal or ore, dedicated bulk naval vessels or ships for loading bulk cargo are commonly used due to their capacity to load bulk cargo. Bulk vessels are generally equipped with large holds covered by some form of hatch or cover that is opened during loading and unloading of the associated cargo. When handling bulk cargo, cranes equipped with buckets or the like are commonly used to handle the cargo.

[0004] Similarly, large land-based storage facilities are commonly used to store bulk cargoes. In such facilities, bulldozers or the like are often used to distribute, reload, and unload the bulk cargo.

[0005] Bulk cargo may also be temporarily stored and reloaded in so-called hopper systems.

[0006] However, more efficient reloading or unloading of bulk cargo can be achieved by using so-called self-unloader systems, which can be installed on ships or storage facilities, for example. In self-unloader systems, bulk cargo is automatically unloaded from a ship or cargo space through a gate located at the bottom of the space or hold. In self-unloader systems, the space used to hold the cargo is typically equipped with steeply sloping side walls through which the bulk cargo slides toward a gate located at the bottom. From the gate, the bulk cargo is then typically removed using a conveyor, a hauler, or a feed screw.

[0007] In self-unloading systems, bulk cargo tends to get stuck during unloading. There are several reasons why bulk cargo can get stuck during unloading. One reason is that the side walls of the space used to hold the cargo are not steep enough. Another reason is that the side walls of the space used to hold the cargo exhibit too much friction due to material jamming or sticking. Yet another reason is that the bulk cargo forms a wall when unloaded. Yet another reason is that the bulk cargo forms an arch, for example, above a gate. Yet another reason is that the material properties of the bulk cargo do not allow for free flow due to high internal friction, resulting in an arch, for example, above a gate. This results in the area closest to the gate being emptied, but the material forms a free-standing arch above the gate, and therefore the bulk cargo cannot be easily unloaded.

[0008] To mitigate the above problems, it is common practice to use steep side walls with vibrators attached to them. This configuration reduces the risk of the bulk cargo becoming stuck during unloading. However, other drawbacks typically arise when utilizing this approach.

[0009] FIG. 1 shows a schematic perspective cross-section of a partial vessel according to the prior art. The illustrated vessel, shown primarily in phantom lines, has a deadweight tonnage of approximately 8,600 tons and a total cargo capacity of approximately 11,300 cubic meters. More specifically, FIG. 1 shows the cargo entrance of a bulk loader equipped with a self-unloading system. As can be seen in FIG. 1, the steep sidewalls of the cargo entrance result in valuable space inside the vessel being unavailable for storing cargo at the sides and amidships of the vessel. To avoid wasting too much space, the vessel is equipped with two parallel gate sets, one on the starboard side and one on the port side of the vessel. The use of parallel gate sets results in multiple conveyor sets being used below the gates. The use of multiple parallel conveyors requires a cross conveyor extending laterally across the vessel to feed the bulk cargo to a C-shaped conveyor used to lift and transport the bulk cargo from the vessel. The use of multiple conveyors is costly and increases the number of moving parts, thus increasing maintenance, risk of breakdowns, and costly downtime.

[0010] Additionally, vibrators are mounted on the steeply sloped sidewalls of the vessel in Figure 1. This placement of the vibrators results in undesirable body or structural noise and premature material fatigue. The vibrators can generate centripetal forces of as much as 300 kN, which are largely absorbed by the sidewalls and supporting structures. The vibration energy from the vibrators transmitted to the sidewalls and supporting structures inevitably vibrates them. Such vibrations create a significant amount of noise that poses a hazard to personnel operating the system. Furthermore, such vibrations require a very stiff support structure, otherwise lifespan will be reduced due to premature material fatigue. The need for such a very stiff support structure means that a large amount of material must be used for the support structure to achieve the desired lifespan. Also, the attachment of the support structure to its surroundings, such as the vessel's hull, must be very stiff to last over time. In this regard, a large amount of material must also be used to attach the support structure to its surroundings.

[0011] Similar or the same problems arise when utilizing land-based self-unloader systems with steep sidewalls and vibrators, and in hopper systems with steep sidewalls and vibrators.

[0012] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0272543(A1) suggests using less steep sidewalls in combination with an array of individual surface segments equipped with vibrating units. The individual surface segments are supported by a dedicated support structure to form a funnel-shaped structure that slopes toward the outlet. The described system therefore provides a greater load capacity. However, the described system is very complex and expensive to build. Furthermore, the described system still causes undesirable body or structural noise and premature material fatigue due to the vibrating units. By fixing the vibrating units to a support structure, the vibrating units' ability to transmit vibrations, for example, to bulk materials, is significantly hindered, thus reducing the vibrating units' effectiveness.

[0013] U.S. Patent No. 4,907,721 discloses a bulk silo for grain and particulate matter that includes a sloped floor that slopes toward a pair of spouts. The sloped floor includes a vibrator connected to a plate for vibrating the floor. Each spout is shaped like a tunnel through which the grain or particulate matter is allowed to flow toward a chain conveyor. Furthermore, each spout is used with a gate to control the flow of grain therethrough. However, such spouts are prone to clogging.

[0014] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0260539(A1) discloses a vibrating floor consisting of independent vibrating modules that can be prefabricated and placed in a predetermined position within a structure for storing or transporting bulk products. Each vibrating module consists of a frame on which a support material is disposed. A metal sheet is mounted on the support material. The metal sheet is attached to a vibrating element and held in place by a perimeter seal to ensure that the vibrating module is dust-tight. However, such modules may tend to transmit vibrations to their surroundings.

[0015] JP2002 326722A discloses a waste discharge device. Waste is dropped into the device so that it strikes a triangular tubular member before hitting a steel plate chute of a hopper. The triangular tubular member and the hopper are equipped with low-frequency vibration motors so that waste dropped onto each member is loosened by the vibration of the motor. Furthermore, rubber cushions are installed between the lower stand, the triangular tubular member, and the hopper.

[0016] EP 2716581 A1 discloses a vibrating floor section including a flat base and an upper plate positioned to overlie at least a portion of the base. A vibrating mechanism is configured to vibrate the upper plate relative to the base. At least one elastic device is configured to support the upper plate on the base. The elastic device has a first end attached to the base and a second end supporting the upper plate, allowing the upper plate to assume a raised state relative to the base when substantially unloaded and a fully depressed state when loaded beyond a predetermined amount. However, such floor sections may be prone to transmitting vibrations to their surroundings.

[0017] Therefore, there is a need for improved storage and recovery systems for bulk materials. Summary of the Invention

[0018] With the above in mind, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved storage and retrieval system for bulk materials, as well as uses of the system, and vessels, land-based storage, and hoppers containing the system.

[0019] Another object is to provide such a storage and retrieval system for bulk materials that does not occupy much space.

[0020] Another object is to provide such a storage and retrieval system for bulk materials that simplifies unloading from the storage and retrieval system.

[0021] Another object is to provide such a storage and recovery system for bulk materials that allows for the handling of bulk materials having high internal friction.

[0022] Another object is to provide such a storage and retrieval system for bulk materials that reduces body sound.

[0023] Another object is to provide a storage and retrieval system for bulk materials that reduces the transmission of vibrations to its surroundings.

[0024] Another object is to provide such a storage and retrieval system for bulk materials that reduces material fatigue of the system and surrounding components.

[0025] Another object is to provide such a storage and retrieval system for bulk materials that reduces the number of auxiliary components used when unloading bulk cargo from the storage and retrieval system.

[0026] In order to achieve at least one of the above objects and further objects that will become apparent from the following description, a storage and retrieval system for bulk materials is provided according to the inventive concept having the features defined in claim 1. A ship including the storage and retrieval system for bulk materials is provided according to claim 16. A land-based storage device including the storage and retrieval system for bulk materials is provided according to claim 17. A hopper including the storage and retrieval system for bulk materials is provided according to claim 18. A use of the storage and retrieval system is provided according to claim 19. Preferred variations of the inventive concept will become apparent from the dependent claims.

[0027] More specifically, according to a first aspect, there is provided a storage and recovery system for bulk material, comprising: a bulk material holding space having a bottom with a discharge port, wherein the bottom comprises an inclined support plate for supporting the bulk material and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material towards the discharge port; a support structure supporting the support plate; one or more vibrators connected to the support plate and configured to transfer vibration energy to the support plate to induce vibrational movement of the support plate; wherein the support plate is supported by the support structure in a free-floating manner, and A storage and recovery system is provided, comprising: an intermediate layer disposed between the support plate and the main structure; the intermediate layer having vibration isolation properties such that transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure is impeded; the support plate is inclined at an angle (α) in the range of 15 to 25 degrees with respect to the horizontal; and the support structure is damped-connected to the main structure by at least one structural vibration damper such that transmission of vibrations from the storage and recovery system to the main structure is impeded, the abutting vibration damper being disposed between the support plate and the support structure and configured to prevent translation of the support plate downward toward the discharge port.

[0028] This provides an improved storage and recovery system for bulk materials.

[0029] Storage and recovery systems are generally designed for, and therefore suitable for use with, bulk materials.

[0030] Additionally, the storage and recovery system is advantageous in that it is designed to be capable of handling bulk materials that exhibit high internal friction, also known as high internal sticking. Thus, the storage and recovery system is designed to efficiently handle bulk materials that tend to stick and jam during handling, such as unloading. Non-limiting examples of such bulk materials are wood chips and sawdust, which are prone to arching and warping during handling.

[0031] "Arching" means that the bulk material may form a free-standing arch across the hollow space, for example, over an evacuation port such that the arch prevents the bulk material from reaching the evacuation port.

[0032] "Walling" means that the bulk material forms a free-standing, steep wall. This means that the bulk material can form a wall-like structure that can prevent the material from flowing toward the discharge port. For example, wood chips can form walls with more or less vertical sides that can exceed 10 meters in height.

[0033] Furthermore, the storage and retrieval system is advantageous in that it includes vibration damping that impedes the transmission of vibrations within the system and to the main structure to which the storage and retrieval system is connected. More specifically, the storage and retrieval system includes dual vibration damping that includes an intermediate layer disposed between the support structure and the support plate and at least one structural vibration damper that connects the support structure to the main structure. This dual damping can provide efficient impedence of vibrations within the storage and retrieval system in the form of the main structure, as well as the transmission of vibrations to its surroundings.

[0034] By "primary structure" is meant any structure to which a storage and retrieval system is connected. The primary structure may in turn be connected to another structure. In the case of a ship or vessel, the primary structure may be the hull of the ship, a tank of the ship such as a wing tank, the bottom of the hull, the freeboard of the hull, or the like. The primary structure may be the foundation of a land-based storage shed. The primary structure may be the ground. The primary structure may be a pier, a road, a ship's deck, a foundation, a tower, a crane, or the like in the case of a hopper.

[0035] The storage and retrieval system includes a bulk material holding space, which is typically designed to hold bulk cargo during transportation, storage, and / or handling. The bulk cargo holding space may be, for example, a ship or vessel hold, a warehouse or storage facility, a hopper, a storage tower, a train car, or a truck bed.

[0036] Thus, bulk cargo may be stationary within a bulk material holding space for extended periods of time, such as when being transported by ship or stored in a storage facility. Additionally, bulk cargo may flow through the bulk material holding space or may be stationary for only short periods of time, such as when being handled in a hopper. The size, shape, and design of the bulk material holding space may consequently vary greatly.

[0037] The bulk material holding space has a bottom with a discharge port or gate that is typically used to extract bulk material from the bulk material holding space by opening the discharge port to allow the bulk material to flow or fall out of the bulk material holding space through the discharge port.

[0038] The bottom of the bulk material holding space includes an inclined support plate for supporting the bulk material and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material toward the discharge port. Thus, the bulk material can move along the inclined support plate toward the discharge port while being supported by the inclined support plate. The inclination of the inclined support plate causes gravity acting on the bulk material to assist the bulk material in being fed toward the discharge port.

[0039] The support plate is supported by a support structure. The support structure may be any structure capable of supporting the support plate. The support structure may include one or more plates that support the support plate. The support structure may include one or more beams that support the support plate. The support structure may include one or more grids that support the support plate. The support structure may include a combination of one or more load-bearing structures, such as plates, beams, and grids.

[0040] One or more vibrators are connected to the support plate. The vibrators are configured to transmit vibration energy to the support plate. Thus, the vibrators can cause vibrational motion of the support plate. The vibrational motion of the support plate propagates into the bulk material supported by the support plate. The vibrational motion propagated into the bulk material results in the bulk material or at least a portion of the bulk material vibrating or shaking. By vibrating the bulk material, arching and walling of the bulk material are prevented, resulting in the bulk material being less susceptible to sticking or clogging. By vibrating the bulk material, the arches and walls of the bulk material can be collapsed, thus resulting in the bulk material being less susceptible to sticking and clogging.

[0041] Any number of agitators, including one, may be advantageously used. The agitator may be of any suitable type. The agitator may be hydraulically driven. The agitator may be pneumatically driven. The agitator may be electrically driven. The agitator may be electromagnetically driven. The agitator may be adjustable. The vibration force of the agitator may be adjusted. The vibration force of the agitator may be adjusted. The vibration amplitude of the agitator may be adjusted. The vibration frequency of the agitator may be adjusted. To name a few non-limiting examples, the vibration time of the agitator may be adjusted. The agitator may be adjusted based on the bulk material at hand to achieve efficient delivery of the bulk material toward the discharge port. For example, the vibration amplitude may need to be increased for materials with large internal friction. Similarly, the vibration amplitude may potentially be reduced for materials with limited internal friction.

[0042] The support plates are inclined at an angle between 15 and 25 degrees to the horizontal, which allows for an efficient storage and retrieval system without using too much space.

[0043] The support plate is supported by the support structure in a free-floating manner.

[0044] By "free-floating," it is meant that the support plate is supported by the support structure so that it can vibrate independently of the support structure or substantially independently of the support structure. Thus, the support plate is supported so that its contact surface with the support structure is free or substantially free. In other words, the support plate can rest freely on the support structure. The support plate can be constrained to move within its plane relative to the support structure. This arrangement of the support plate results in at least a central main portion of the support plate being free of any connection or coupling to another entity or object, such as the support structure.

[0045] This configuration allows the vibrator to efficiently transfer vibrational energy to the support plate while limiting the amount of vibrational energy transferred to the support structure, thus resulting in less vibration being transferred to the surroundings, thereby effectively reducing body noise and premature material fatigue. For obvious reasons, the limited amount of vibrational energy transferred by the vibrator can be transferred to the surroundings.

[0046] Because the support plate is supported in a free-floating manner, vibration energy can be efficiently transferred to the bulk cargo, and the amplitude is significantly increased. This results in arching and walling being reduced even more efficiently, and the bulk material being able to move more easily toward the discharge port. Also, because the support plate is supported in a free-floating manner, materials with high internal friction that cannot flow without additional energy in the form of vibration can be advantageously handled by the storage and retrieval system. Therefore, the inclination of the support plate can be reduced, so that less space is taken up by the storage and retrieval system. As a result, the bulk material holding space can be made larger without wasting too much space. As a further result of the reduced inclination of the support plate, arching of the bulk material can be reduced.

[0047] An intermediate layer is disposed between the support structure and the support plate, and the intermediate layer has vibration-insulating properties so that the transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure is impeded. By disposing the intermediate layer between the support structure and the support plate, several advantages can be realized because the intermediate layer has vibration-insulating properties. As is well known, sound is a type of vibration, which means that the intermediate layer also has sound-damping properties. This means that providing an intermediate layer can reduce the overall sound level and / or mitigate the propagation of undesired noise. The intermediate layer can reduce the overall vibration level of the support structure and any entities connected to it, such as the main structure. Furthermore, the propagation of undesired vibrations can be reduced both within the storage and retrieval system and outside the storage and retrieval system. Therefore, the intermediate layer between the support structure and the support plate can effectively reduce body sound. The intermediate layer between the support structure and the support plate can reduce material fatigue. The intermediate layer can be wear-resistant, thereby reducing wear on the support structure and the support plate. Examples of materials suitable for the intermediate layer include polyurethane, polyurethane elastomer, mixed cell polyurethane elastomer, closed cell polyurethane elastomer, open cell polyurethane elastomer, rubber, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, polymer, PTFE, and steel-based energy absorbing materials. The intermediate layer may comprise multiple materials.

[0048] The support structure is damper-connected to the main structure by at least one structural vibration damper so that the transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system to the main structure is impeded. By providing at least one structural vibration damper, the transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system to the main structure can be efficiently impeded. This means that providing at least one structural vibration damper can reduce the overall sound level and / or mitigate the propagation of undesired noise. The at least one structural vibration damper can reduce the overall vibration level of the main structure. Furthermore, the propagation of undesired vibrations can be reduced, particularly outside the storage and retrieval system. Therefore, the at least one structural vibration damper between the support structure and the main structure can efficiently reduce body sound. The at least one structural vibration damper between the support structure and the main structure can reduce material fatigue. Examples of materials suitable for the structural vibration damper include steel-based energy-absorbing materials, stainless steel, polyurethane, polyurethane elastomer, mixed-cell polyurethane elastomer, closed-cell polyurethane elastomer, open-cell polyurethane elastomer, rubber, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, polymer, and PTFE.

[0049] The abutment vibration damper is disposed between the support plate and the support structure and is configured to prevent downward translation of the support plate toward the discharge port. By providing the abutment vibration damper, the support plate is prevented from sliding toward the discharge port while simultaneously being damped against the support structure.

[0050] The structural vibration damper may include multiple materials.

[0051] A structural vibration damper may include multiple damping bodies or elements arranged in series and / or parallel.

[0052] The support plate may be inclined at an angle in the range of 5 to 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. The support plate may be inclined at an angle in the range of 17 to 23 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. The support plate may be inclined at an angle of approximately 20 degrees relative to the horizontal plane.

[0053] The support plate may be inclined at an angle in the range of 5 to 40 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. The support plate may be inclined at an angle in the range of 5 to 50 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. The support plate may be inclined at an angle in the range of 5 to 60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. The support plate may be inclined at an angle in the range of 20 to 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. The support plate may be inclined at an angle of approximately 30 degrees relative to the horizontal plane.

[0054] At least one structural vibration damper may be located at any interface between the support structure and the main structure, which is advantageous in that the transmission of vibrations from the storage and recovery system to the main structure is further impeded. In other words, the support structure of the storage and recovery system may be connected solely to the main structure by a damper connection.

[0055] The abutment vibration damper may be attached to the support plate and abut against an abutment surface of the support structure, which is advantageous in that it prevents the support plate from sliding towards the discharge port while at the same time damping it against the support structure. Thus, the abutment vibration damper may be fixedly attached to the support plate and abut against the abutment surface of the support structure. The abutment vibration damper may abut against the abutment surface of the support structure due to the tilt angle of the support plate as the support plate is pulled by gravity in a direction towards the discharge port.

[0056] The abutment vibration damper is attached to the support structure and can abut against the abutment surface of the support plate, which is advantageous in that it prevents the support plate from sliding towards the discharge port while at the same time damping it against the support structure. Thus, the abutment vibration damper is fixedly attached to the support structure and can abut against the abutment surface of the support plate. The abutment vibration damper can abut against the abutment surface of the support plate due to the tilt angle of the support plate as the support plate is pulled by gravity in a direction towards the discharge port.

[0057] The abutment vibration damper may be attached to the support structure and the support plate.

[0058] The support structure may comprise a backing plate, in which the support plate rests on the backing plate, which is advantageous in that the support plate can be supported in a firm manner by the backing plate. By supporting one plate on another plate via an intermediate layer, the indirect contact surface between the two plates can be maximized. This can reduce the risk of wear and / or deformation of the support plate caused by vibration.

[0059] The abutment vibration damper may extend through an opening and / or slot in the backing plate, which is advantageous in that the abutment vibration damper may extend below the backing plate and engage an abutment surface of the support structure. This configuration may provide a strong and reliable interaction between the backing plate and the support structure while only affecting the backing plate to a limited extent.

[0060] Each vibrator may be connected to a major surface of the support plate facing away from the bulk material holding space, which is advantageous in that one or more vibrators can efficiently transfer vibration energy to the support plate to cause vibrational motion of the support plate without interfering with the bulk material holding space. Therefore, the vibrators may not occupy any space within the bulk material holding space. The vibrators may not disrupt the flow of bulk material being supplied toward the discharge port of the bulk material holding space. The vibrators may be less sensitive to bulk material contamination.

[0061] Each vibrator may extend through an opening in the support structure, which is advantageous in that the one or more vibrators can efficiently transfer vibrational energy to the support plate to cause vibratory movement of the support plate while minimizing impact on the support structure.

[0062] The intermediate layer may comprise an elastomeric material, which is advantageous in that the transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure may be efficiently impeded.

[0063] The intermediate layer can have progressive compression properties by comprising at least two different materials of different thicknesses arranged side by side within the intermediate layer, and / or by comprising at least two different materials stacked on top of each other, and / or by the intermediate layer being textured, which is advantageous in that the intermediate layer can handle large loads while still not being overly compressed.

[0064] The intermediate layer may include at least two different materials of different thicknesses arranged side by side within the intermediate layer. By including a thicker and softer material alongside a thinner and harder material, the intermediate layer may be made to impede the transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure over a wide range of loads. The thicker and softer material may compress even when the intermediate layer is subjected to a small load, thereby impeding the transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure. In addition to the thicker and softer material, a thinner and relatively harder material may compress when the intermediate layer is subjected to a larger load, thereby impeding the transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure over a wide range of loads. The respective materials may be provided in any suitable pattern, including, but not limited to, material stripes, material grids, material islands surrounded by different materials, material islands of different materials, and the like.

[0065] The intermediate layer may include at least two different materials or layers stacked or arranged on top of each other. The layers may or may not be connected to each other. The layers may have different properties, including sound damping, vibration isolation, and wear resistance. The upper material or layer may be softer than the lower material or layer. This design allows the upper soft layer to compress even when the intermediate layer is subjected to a small load, thereby preventing the transmission of vibration from the support plate to the support structure. The relatively harder layer may compress when the intermediate layer is subjected to a larger load, thereby preventing the transmission of vibration from the support plate to the support structure over a wide range of loads.

[0066] The intermediate layer may be textured. For example, the intermediate layer may have a textured or patterned surface in which some portions are higher than others. A wavy or striped surface may be advantageously used. With this design, the higher portions may compress even when the intermediate layer is subjected to a small load, thereby impeding the transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure. The lower portions may compress when the intermediate layer is subjected to a larger load, thereby impeding the transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure over a wide range of loads.

[0067] The structural vibration damper may comprise a metal-based damping body with progressive compression characteristics, which is advantageous in that the structural vibration damper can handle large loads while still exhibiting the desired damping characteristics, and the risk of overloading the structural vibration damper is significantly reduced by the metal-based damping body with progressive compression characteristics, which may result in a longer life for the structural vibration damper.

[0068] The abutment vibration damper may comprise an elastomeric body disposed between the mounting brackets, which is advantageous in that an abutment vibration damper capable of handling large shear loads may be achieved with reduced risk of accidental displacement of the abutment vibration damper.

[0069] The structural vibration damper may comprise an elastomeric body disposed between the mounting brackets, which is advantageous in that a structural vibration damper capable of handling large shear loads may be achieved with reduced risk of accidental displacement of the structural vibration damper.

[0070] The structural vibration dampers, and, if present, the abutment vibration dampers, may be replaceable, which is advantageous in that the respective dampers may be replaced when worn or otherwise damaged.

[0071] The system may further include a clamping profile that clamps a peripheral portion of the support plate and is attached to the support structure, the clamping profile containing a vibration-damping lining disposed between the peripheral portion of the support plate and the clamping profile. This is advantageous in that the interface between the support plate and the clamping profile is vibration-damped, thereby further impeding transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure. Furthermore, the support plate may be held in a predetermined position relative to the support structure. Furthermore, the use of the clamping profile may result in the support plate being able to move freely within its plane. The use of the clamping profile may result in the support plate being able to move freely within its plane, but only to a limited extent. Furthermore, the use of the clamping profile may result in the support plate being sealed to the support structure and / or any underlying structure such that unintentional egress of the bulk material from the bulk material holding space is prevented.

[0072] The discharge port may further include one or more inclined discharge port plates to guide the bulk material and assist gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material toward the discharge port, wherein each discharge port plate is inclined at an angle ranging from 30 to 70 degrees relative to the horizontal plane, wherein one or more vibrators are connected to each discharge port plate and configured to transmit vibration energy to the discharge port plate to induce vibrational motion of the discharge port plate, wherein each discharge port plate is supported by a support structure in a free-floating manner, wherein an intermediate layer is further disposed between the support structure and the one or more discharge port plates. This configuration may facilitate discharge of the bulk material through the discharge port. The combination of the support plate and the one or more inclined discharge port plates allows the bulk material to more easily flow through the discharge port. If the support plate is inclined less than the one or more inclined discharge port plates, arching of the bulk material may be further prevented. Arching may be reduced because the support plate exhibits a reduced ability to withstand forces across the horizontal plane. In other words, the support plate cannot support the material arch as effectively as when steeper sidewalls are used. One or more vibrators may be configured to transmit vibrational energy to the discharge port plate to induce vibrational motion of the discharge port plate. Each discharge port plate may be supported by the support structure in a free-floating manner. This configuration may further facilitate discharge of bulk material through the discharge ports. Any number of vibrators, including one, may be advantageously used. Reference is made above to the vibrators and how each discharge port plate is supported by the support structure in a free-floating manner. By disposing an intermediate layer between the support structure and the one or more discharge port plates, transmission of vibration from the one or more discharge port plates to the support structure may be impeded.

[0073] The system may further comprise a further abutting vibration damper disposed between the one or more discharge port plates and the support structure and configured to prevent downward translation of the one or more inclined discharge port plates towards the discharge ports, which is advantageous in that the one or more discharge port plates are prevented from sliding towards the discharge ports while at the same time being damped relative to the support structure.

[0074] Further abutment vibration dampers may be attached to the one or more discharge port plates and abut against further abutment surfaces of the support structure, which is advantageous in that the one or more discharge port plates are prevented from sliding toward the discharge ports while at the same time being damped relative to the support structure. Thus, the further abutment vibration dampers may be fixedly attached to the one or more discharge port plates and abut against abutment surfaces of the support structure. Because the one or more discharge port plates are acted upon by gravity in a direction toward the discharge ports, the abutment vibration dampers may abut against the abutment surfaces of the support structure due to the inclination angle of the one or more discharge port plates.

[0075] The system may further comprise an additional inclined support plate to support the bulk material and to assist in gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material from the opposite side towards the discharge port, which is advantageous in that the discharge port may be fed with material from more than one direction.

[0076] The additional support plate may comprise one or more vibrators connected to the support plate and configured to transmit vibration energy to the support plate to induce vibrational movement of the support plate, wherein the additional support plate is supported by the support structure in a free-floating manner. Advantages of the additional support plate are generally similar to those of the support plate referenced above.

[0077] Each vibrator may be independently controllable, which is advantageous in that the vibratory motion of the support plate, the discharge port plate, if present, and the additional support plate, if present, can be controlled to achieve efficient gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material toward the discharge port. Thus, it is possible to induce vibratory motion in specific regions of the support plate, the discharge port plate, if present, and the additional support plate, if present. Thus, it is possible to operate the vibrators in a specific sequence to achieve efficient feeding of the bulk material toward the discharge port. Furthermore, the characteristics of the induced vibratory motion can be modified to meet different needs. For example, the amplitude, frequency, and operating time can be independently controlled for each vibrator. The fact that each vibrator can be independently controllable also allows energy to be saved because the vibrators can be operated only when needed. The fact that each vibrator can be independently controllable also allows energy to be saved because the vibrators can be operated only at a predetermined power. The fact that each vibrator can be independently controllable also allows undesirable body noise and / or vibration to be reduced because the vibrators can be operated only when needed.

[0078] The system may further comprise a conveyor disposed below the bottom of the bulk material holding space for receiving bulk material from the bulk material holding space via the discharge port, which is advantageous in that the bulk material in the bulk material holding space may be transported away via the discharge port after leaving the bulk material holding space, for example, from a ship or a storage facility or warehouse.

[0079] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a ship comprising a storage and retrieval utilisation system according to the first aspect. In general, the features of this aspect provide similar advantages to those described above in relation to the first aspect, and therefore, said advantages will not be repeated to avoid undue repetition. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a land-based storage system comprising the storage and recovery utilization system according to the first aspect. In general, the features of this aspect provide similar advantages to those described above with respect to the first aspect. Therefore, the advantages will not be repeated to avoid excessive repetition. However, it may be further noted that a land-based storage system according to the present invention can have a significantly reduced height compared to prior art land-based storage. The reduced height can, in turn, result in an increase in the overall capacity of the land-based storage. Furthermore, such land-based storage can require a less solid foundation than prior art storage due to the vibration damping described above.

[0080] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hopper comprising the storage and retrieval system according to the first aspect. In general, the features of this aspect provide similar advantages to those described above with respect to the first aspect. Therefore, the advantages will not be repeated to avoid excessive repetition. However, it may be further noted that a hopper according to the present invention may have a significantly reduced height compared to prior art hoppers. This reduction in height can result in an overall increased capacity of a loading system, including a crane-mounted grabber, for example, because a crane does not need to lift the grabber as high as when using prior art hoppers. Another advantage is that the hopper may have a reduced weight and contain less material compared to prior art hoppers. Furthermore, the hopper may require less robust connections to its surroundings due to the vibration damping described above.

[0081] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided use of the storage and recovery system according to the first aspect for handling bulk materials selected from the group consisting of wood chips, wood pellets, sawdust, coal, ore, gypsum rock, bauxite, alumina, cement, sand, gravel, crushed stone, salt, grain, and aggregates. Thus, the storage and recovery system according to the first aspect may be used for a wide variety of materials. In general, the features of this aspect provide advantages similar to those described above with respect to the first aspect. Therefore, the advantages will not be repeated to avoid undue repetition.

[0082] The above and additional objects, features, and advantages of the inventive concept will be better understood through the following illustrative, non-limiting detailed description of preferred variations of the inventive concept, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are used for similar elements. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0083] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a partial perspective cross-section of a prior art vessel equipped with a self-unloader system; FIG. [Figure 2] 1 conceptually illustrates a schematic partial perspective cross-sectional view of a vessel equipped with a storage and retrieval system in accordance with the concepts of the present invention; [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a conceptual perspective view of a portion of the cargo port of the ship of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 1 conceptually illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a storage and retrieval system in accordance with the concepts of the present invention; [Figure 5] 1 conceptually illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a storage and retrieval system in accordance with the concepts of the present invention; [Figure 6] 10 conceptually illustrates different designs of intermediate layers for use in a storage and retrieval system according to the inventive concepts. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a perspective view of a land-based storage facility equipped with a storage and retrieval system according to the concepts of the present invention; [Figure 8] 1 conceptually illustrates a perspective view of a hopper equipped with a storage and retrieval system in accordance with the concepts of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0084] The inventive concepts are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred versions of the inventive concepts are shown. However, the inventive concepts may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the versions set forth herein; rather, these versions are provided for thoroughness and completeness so as to fully convey the scope of the inventive concepts to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0085] First, with reference to Figures 2-4, the storage and retrieval system 100 will be described. The storage and retrieval system 100 will be described in the context of the storage and retrieval system 100 being installed within a ship 200. However, the storage and retrieval system 100 may be used in a number of different uses and applications. Examples of this are described below with reference to Figures 7 and 8. However, these described examples should be considered non-limiting in that the storage and retrieval system 100 may be used equally well in, for example, warehouses, storage towers, train cars, truck bunkers, etc.

[0086] 2, shown primarily in phantom, is a large naval vessel 200 in the form of a bulk loader having a deadweight tonnage of approximately 8,600 tons and a total capacity of approximately 12,500 cubic meters. As a result, the vessel 200 is designed to transport bulk material 102 within its material holding space 104, commonly referred to as a cargo mouth or hold. The material holding space 104 may be compartmentalized and thus may include several portions that together form the material holding space 104.

[0087] The vessel 200 is of the so-called self-unloader type, which means that the bulk material 102 can be automatically unloaded from the material holding space 104 by a self-unloader system 202 installed inside the vessel 200 .

[0088] The automated unloading system 202 includes, among other things, the storage and retrieval system 100 .

[0089] The illustrated automated offloading system 202 is a permanently installed system that is installed on the ship 200 at the wharf when the ship 200 is constructed. However, existing ships can be advantageously retrofitted with an automated offloading system that includes a storage and retrieval system 100 according to the inventive concepts. Similarly, a storage and retrieval system 100 according to the inventive concepts can be advantageously retrofitted for other uses and applications.

[0090] Bulk material 102 present in the material holding space 104 can be automatically unloaded from the material holding space 104 through several discharge ports 106 located at the bottom of the material holding space 104. In other words, the bottom 108 of the material holding space 104 is provided with discharge ports 106. The discharge ports 106 are commonly referred to as gates. The number of discharge ports 106 can vary widely depending, for example, on the size of the vessel 200 at hand. Tenths or even hundredths of discharge ports 106 can be advantageously used. A single discharge port 106 can be advantageously used in, for example, a small vessel, a hopper, or a storage tower.

[0091] The discharge ports 106 of the illustrated vessel 200 are disposed along the longitudinal direction of the vessel 200. The discharge ports 106 of the illustrated vessel 200 are disposed along the centerline of the vessel 200. Each discharge port 106 may be opened and closed individually. Multiple discharge ports 106 may be opened and closed simultaneously. However, it is common practice to open one discharge port 106 at a time when unloading bulk material 102 from the material holding space 104.

[0092] Each discharge port 106 may be located above a conveyor 110, as shown. The conveyor 110 is thus positioned below the bottom 108 of the bulk material holding space 104 to receive the bulk material 102 from the bulk material holding space 104 via the discharge port 106.

[0093] At the front end of the vessel 200, the conveyor 110 meets the lifting conveyor 111 and bends upward in a C-shape supported by the lifting conveyor 111. Thus, when the bulk material 102 traveling on the conveyor 110 reaches the front end of the vessel 200, it is pressed and held between the conveyor 110 and the lifting conveyor 111 so that the bulk material is lifted upward along the C-shape and further out of the vessel 200. Approximately 500 cubic meters of cargo can be unloaded from the vessel 200 by the conveyor 110 and the lifting conveyor 111. The conveyor 110 may terminate, for example, in a further conveyor located above the deck of the vessel 200. The conveyor 110 may terminate, for example, in a transport arm located above the deck of the vessel 200. The conveyor 110 may terminate, for example, in a transport screw located above the deck of the vessel 200.

[0094] When the discharge port 106 is opened, the bulk material 102 consequently falls onto the conveyor 110, is lifted upward by the conveyor 110 and the lifting conveyor 111, and can travel along the conveyor 110 until it exits the vessel 200. In order to control the amount of bulk material 102 on the conveyor and to avoid the accumulation of excessive bulk material 102 at a particular point on the conveyor 110, the discharge port 106 is advantageously opened at that time.

[0095] As can be seen in Figure 3, the bottom 108 of the illustrated bulk material holding space 104 is used with a plurality of modules, each forming part of a storage and retrieval system 100, which in turn forms part of an automated unloading system 202. Each module of the type shown in Figure 3 includes opposing material support surfaces in the form of support plates 112.

[0096] In Figure 4, one side of the module is shown, e.g., the starboard side. The configuration shown in Figure 4 therefore corresponds to a portion of the storage and retrieval system 100 of the automatic unloading system 202. However, the configuration shown in Figure 4 may very well form a complete storage and retrieval system 100 in accordance with the inventive concepts. With this in mind, although the configuration shown in Figure 4 will hereinafter be referred to as the storage and retrieval system 100, this configuration forms part of the overall storage and retrieval system 100 of the depicted vessel 200.

[0097] 4, a storage and recovery system 100 for a bulk material 102 is shown. The system 100 includes a bulk material holding space 104 having a bottom portion 108 as described above. The bottom portion 108 includes a discharge port 106. Furthermore, the bottom portion 108 includes an inclined support plate 112. As a result, the support plate 112 supports the bulk material 102 within the bulk material holding space 104. The inclined support plate 112 has a primary purpose other than supporting the bulk material 102, namely, to assist in gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material 102 toward the discharge port 106. Therefore, the bulk material 102 can flow or move along the inclined support plate 112 toward the discharge port 106 under the influence of gravity. The support plate 112 of the illustrated system 100 is a 10 mm thick steel plate. Other thicknesses of the support plate 112 may be advantageously used. For example, the thickness of the support plate 112 may typically be in the range of 2 to 20 mm. For example, the thickness of the support plate 112 may advantageously be in the range of 6 to 12 mm. Other materials, such as aluminum and / or fiber-reinforced polymer, may be advantageously used in the support plate 112. The support plate 112 may comprise multiple materials.

[0098] The support plate 112 is supported by a support structure 114. The support structure 114 has the primary purpose of bearing and carrying the weight of the bulk material 102 present in the material holding space 104. The support structure 114 may be designed in different ways to fulfill this purpose. The support structure 114 may advantageously comprise a metal plate. The support structure 114 may advantageously comprise a metal beam. The support structure 114 may advantageously comprise a metal grid. The support structure 114 may advantageously be made from other suitable materials, such as a fiber-reinforced polymer material.

[0099] In the illustrated storage and retrieval system 100 of Figures 2-5, four vibrators 116 are connected to the support plate 112. The vibrators 116 are configured to transmit vibrational energy to the support plate 112 to induce vibrational motion in the support plate 112. Thus, the support plate 112 begins to vibrate when one or more of the vibrators 116 are activated. The vibrators 116 may be, for example, hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, and / or electromagnetic vibrators. Different types of vibrators 116 may be advantageously used. Different types of vibrators 116 may be advantageously used in combination. The vibrators 116 may operate according to different operating principles. Examples of suitable operating principles include counter-rotating unbalanced motors, dual unbalanced exciter gears, linear vibration, and triple-shaft unbalanced exciter designs. The vibrators 116 can operate according to different vibrational motions. Examples of suitable vibrational motions include linear motion, circular motion, and elliptical motion. The speed and stroke of the vibrator 116 can be adjusted. The speed and stroke of the vibrator 116 can be adjusted individually. The speed and stroke of the vibrator 116 can be adjusted depending on the material properties of the bulk material 102 at hand. Typical vibration G-forces can be between 3G and 7G.

[0100] The support plate 112 is supported by the support structure 114 in a free-floating manner. Thus, the vibrator 116 can transmit vibrational energy to the support plate 112 while affecting the support structure to a limited extent. In other words, the vibrator 116 can induce vibratory motion in the support plate 112, but at the same time adversely affect the support structure 114, thereby causing it to vibrate. As a result, the free-floating arrangement of the support plate 112 on the support structure 114 can result in the amount of vibration transmitted to the support structure 114 being significantly reduced compared to when the support plate 112 is not arranged in a free-floating manner.

[0101] To further impede the transmission of vibrations from the support plate 112 to the support structure 114, an intermediate layer 122 is disposed between the support structure 114 and the support plate 112. The intermediate layer 122 has vibration isolation properties such that the transmission of vibrations from the support plate 112 to the support structure 114 is counteracted. The intermediate layer 122 can serve several purposes, including sound dampening, vibration isolation, and wear protection.

[0102] The illustrated intermediate layer 122 is a mixed cell polyurethane elastomer sold by Getzner under the trade name Sylomer® SR 100. In other words, the illustrated intermediate layer 122 includes an elastomeric material.

[0103] The illustrated thickness of the intermediate layer 122 is 25 mm. Other thicknesses, such as 12.5 mm, may also be advantageously used. Additionally, other types of intermediate layer 122 may be advantageously used. Such other types of intermediate layer may be further described below with reference to FIG. 6.

[0104] As a result of this design, vibration and body noise may be significantly reduced within vessel 200. As a further result, material fatigue and premature failure of components of vessel 200, including support structure 114, may be significantly reduced.

[0105] The support structure 114 is damper connected to the main structure 150 by a number of structural vibration dampers 126. This impedes the transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system 100 to the main structure 150. In the vessel 200 shown in Figures 2-5, the main structure is, more specifically, the vessel 200 itself. In the illustrated vessel 200, the support structure 114 is damper connected to the main structure 150 or hull 150 of the vessel 200. However, the support structure 114 may also be damper connected to the hull 200 via other entities, such as via a tank, frame, or beam.

[0106] In the illustrated storage and retrieval system 100, each structural vibration damper 126 is an all-metal damper. More specifically, the illustrated damper is sold under the trade name VT-GMF by Vibratec®. VT-GMF dampers are available in several different versions that can be selected based on the need at hand.

[0107] Alternatively, a resilient all-metal body sold by Vibratec® under the trade name GZD-G-7000 may be used for the structural vibration damper 126 .

[0108] As a further alternative, elastic all-metal bodies sold by RG+® under the trade name VT2000 may be used for the structural vibration dampers 126. In the latter case, the number of bodies used at each interface may be tailored to fit the need at hand. Also, the extension and size of the bodies may be adjusted to fit the need at hand. In practice, each individual structural vibration damper 126 or body of the above type is designed to handle a static load of approximately 10 tons. As will be appreciated, typically the number of structural vibration dampers 126 or bodies is tailored to fit the load case at hand.

[0109] The VT-GMF all-metal damper, as well as the GZD-G-7000 and VT2000, is formed with a body of controlled stainless steel wire "tangle" positioned between two mounting brackets. This type of structural vibration damper 126 therefore provides a metal-based damping body with progressive compression characteristics. The progressive compression characteristics result from the fact that the more the body of stainless steel wire "tangle" is compressed, the more of the stainless steel wire contacts adjacent sections of stainless steel wire.

[0110] Each leg of the support structure 114 rests on a plurality of structural vibration dampers 126, which in turn rest on the main structure 150. This is best seen in the lower inset view of Figure 4. In practice, four structural vibration dampers 126 are used per leg in the storage and retrieval system 100 shown in Figures 2-5. Any number of structural vibration dampers 126 may be advantageously used.

[0111] Similarly, the top of the support structure 114 rests on a plurality of structural vibration dampers 126, which in turn rest on consoles 128 fixedly attached to the main structure 150. This is best seen in the top inset view of Figure 4. In practice, four structural vibration dampers 126 are used on top of each console 128 in the storage and retrieval system 100 shown in Figures 2-5. Any number of structural vibration dampers 126 may be advantageously used.

[0112] Additionally, the top of the support structure 114 is supported horizontally on the main structure 150, i.e., on the wing tanks of the vessel 200, via a number of structural vibration dampers 126. This is best shown in the top inset view of Figure 4. In practice, four structural vibration dampers 126 are used horizontally per top in the storage and retrieval system 100 shown in Figures 2-5. Any number of structural vibration dampers 126 may be advantageously used.

[0113] In the illustrated storage and retrieval system 100, at least one structural vibration damper 126 is positioned at any interface between the support structure 114 and the main structure 150, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. Using this configuration, the resulting vibration response in the hull of the vessel 200 was calculated and found to be well below the recommended limits in Lloyd's Ship Vibration and Noise Guidance Note.

[0114] However, one structural vibration damper 126 or at least one structural vibration damper 126 may be advantageously used to impede the transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system 100 to the primary structure 150. Typically, however, two or more structural vibration dampers 126 are used.

[0115] At least one structural vibration damper 126 in a single location may be advantageously used to impede the transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system 100 to the primary structure 150. However, typically, two or more structural vibration dampers 126 in two or more locations are used.

[0116] As a result of this design, vibrations and body noise within vessel 200 may be significantly reduced. As a further result, material fatigue and premature failure of components of vessel 200, including support structure 114 and vessel 200 itself, may be significantly reduced.

[0117] Furthermore, the induced vibratory motion of the support plate 112 may consequently be transmitted to the bulk material 102 supported by the support plate 112. The induced vibratory motion of the support plate 112 may consequently disrupt arching and walling of the bulk material 102. The such induced vibratory motion of the support plate 112 may consequently destroy arches and / or walls formed in the bulk material 102. Thus, the such induced vibratory motion of the support plate 112 may further assist gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material 102 toward the discharge port 106.

[0118] As understood from the above, the system 100 typically includes an additional inclined support plate 112, separate from the support plate 112 shown in FIG. 4 , for supporting the bulk material 102 and for assisting in gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material 102 from the opposite side thereof toward the discharge port 106. As also understood from the above, the additional support plate 112 typically includes one or more vibrators 116 connected thereto. Accordingly, the vibrators 116 are configured to transmit vibrational energy to the additional support plate 112 in response to causing vibrational movement of the additional support plate 112. As also understood from the above, the additional support plate 112 is typically supported by the support structure 114 in a free-floating manner.

[0119] The illustrated support structure 114 includes a backing plate 118. The support plate 112 rests on the backing plate 118. The backing plate 118 of the illustrated system 100 is a steel plate having a thickness of 10 mm. Backing plates 118 of other thicknesses may be advantageously used. For example, the thickness of the backing plate 118 may typically be in the range of 8 to 20 mm. Other materials, such as aluminum and / or fiber-reinforced polymer, may be advantageously used for the backing plate 118. The backing plate 118 may comprise multiple materials.

[0120] In other variations, the support plate 112 may rest on a beam or on a grid, for example.

[0121] Each of the four illustrated vibrators 116 is connected to a major surface of the support plate 112 that faces away from the bulk material holding space 104. In other words, the vibrators 116 are all located on the underside of the support plate 112. To accomplish this, each illustrated vibrator 116 extends through an opening 117 in the support structure. This configuration of the vibrators 116 results in the vibrators all being located outside of the bulk material holding space 104. Therefore, the presence of the vibrators 116 does not negatively affect how the bulk material 102 is fed toward the discharge port 106.

[0122] Each vibrator 116 may typically be connected to a bracket 119 that extends through opening 117. Each vibrator 116 may typically be connected to bracket 119 by being screwed or welded to bracket 119. Bracket 119 may typically be connected to support plate 112 by being welded or screwed to support plate 112.

[0123] In the illustrated system 100, a clamping profile 120 is provided that clamps a peripheral portion of the support plate 112 and is attached to the support structure 114. The clamping profile 120 contains a vibration-damping lining 121 disposed between the peripheral portion of the support plate 112 and the clamping profile 120. This is best seen in the central inset view of FIG.

[0124] As can be seen in the inset of Figure 4, a clamping profile 120 is provided at the joint between two adjacent support plates 112 of the storage and retrieval system 100. The clamping profile 120 is fixedly attached to the support structure by bolts 123. The illustrated vibration-damping lining 121 is a rubber or elastomeric lining housed within, and thus held in place by, the clamping profile 120. Other materials may be advantageously used for the vibration-damping lining 121. The vibration-damping lining 121 further impedes the transmission of vibrations from the support plate 112 to the support structure 114.

[0125] The illustrated clamping profile 120 has a generally C-shape. For example, other shapes for the clamping profile 120 may be advantageously used depending on the design or immediate needs. This configuration holds the support plate 112 in place relative to the support structure 114 while allowing it to move freely within its plane. More specifically, the support plate 112 has limited freedom of movement within its plane relative to the support structure 114. The use of the clamping profile 120 also results in the support plate 112 being sealed to the support structure 114 and any underlying structures. This means that the bulk material 102 is prevented from unintentionally exiting the bulk material holding space 104, which means that the bulk material 102 is prevented from entering between the support plate 112 and the support structure 114, which would otherwise risk adversely affecting the system 100.

[0126] The clamping profile 120 typically extends along the edge of the side edge support plate 112. However, the clamping profile 120 may extend along the entire edge of the support plate 112. The clamping profile 120 may extend along one or more portions of the edge of the support plate 112. In other words, the clamping profile 120 may be formed from several segments that together form the clamping profile 120.

[0127] Turning now to FIG. 5, which shows how the storage and retrieval system 100 also includes several abutment vibration dampers 130 disposed between the support plate 112 and the support structure 114. In FIG. 5, four abutment vibration dampers 130 are disposed between the support plate 112 and the support structure 114. However, any number of abutment vibration dampers 130 disposed between the support plate 112 and the support structure 114 may be advantageously used. The abutment vibration dampers 130 are configured to prevent the support plate 112 from translating downward toward the discharge port 106. In addition to preventing the support plate 112 from translating downward toward the discharge port 106, the abutment vibration dampers 130 impede the transmission of vibrations from the support plate 112 to the support structure 114. The illustrated abutment vibration dampers 130 are of the type sold by Trelleborg AB under the trade name SAW 150 A. This type of abutment vibration damper 130 includes an elastomeric body disposed between the mounting brackets. Such an abutment vibration damper 130 with an elastomeric body disposed between the mounting brackets can absorb large shear loads while still efficiently impeding the translation of vibrations from the support plate 112 to the support structure 114.

[0128] An alternative abutment vibration damper 130 is of the type sold by Vibratec® under the trade name GFM-D-10000-4. This type of abutment vibration damper 130 is an all-steel abutment vibration damper 130 of substantially the same type as the GZD-G-7000 as introduced above. To avoid undue repetition, the GFM-D-10000-4 will not be described in further detail.

[0129] A further alternative abutment vibration damper 130 is the type VT-GMF by Vibratec®.

[0130] A further alternative abutment vibration damper 130 is the type VT2000 by RG+®.

[0131] As best seen in the inset view of Figure 5, the abutment vibration damper 130 is attached to the support plate 112 and abuts against an abutment surface 132 of the support structure 114. More specifically, the abutment vibration damper 130 is attached to a bracket 134, which is attached to the support plate 112. The illustrated bracket 134 is welded to the underside of the support plate 112, and the mounting bracket of the abutment vibration damper 130 is bolted to the bracket 134 such that the abutment vibration damper 130 is oriented perpendicular to the top surface of the support plate 112.

[0132] The abutment surface 132 of the support structure 114 is the surface portion of the beam used to support the support plate 112 via the backing plate 118. Any type of abutment surface may be advantageously used.

[0133] The illustrated abutment vibration dampers 130 each extend through an opening 136 in the backing plate 118. Also, each bracket 134 extends integrally with each abutment vibration damper 130 through the opening 136 in the backing plate 118.

[0134] Alternatively or additionally, the clamping profile 120 may be provided at the lowermost edge of the support plate 112 such that the support plate 112 is impeded or prevented from sliding downwards due to its inclination.

[0135] The structural vibration damper 126 and the abutment vibration damper 130 described above are typically replaceable. However, the structural vibration damper 126 and the abutment vibration damper 130 may also be permanently attached to the storage and retrieval system 100.

[0136] In the illustrated system 100, the support plate 112 is inclined at an angle α of 20 degrees relative to the horizontal. Other angles α between 5 and 30 degrees relative to the horizontal may be advantageously used. By utilizing an angle α of 20 degrees relative to the horizontal, a significant amount of valuable space may be saved. Thus, the bulk material holding space 104 may be larger than if steep sidewalls were used according to the prior art. For example, the free-floating arrangement of the support plate 112 and the agitator 116 disposed thereon allows the support plate 112 to exhibit a significantly smaller angle α relative to the horizontal, while still allowing the bulk material 102 to be fed toward the discharge port 106 in a gravity-assisted manner.

[0137] In the illustrated system 100, the discharge port 106 further includes one or more inclined discharge port plates 124. As a result, the discharge port plates 124 are positioned proximate to the discharge port 106, typically immediately adjacent to the discharge port 106. The discharge port plates 124 are used to guide the bulk material 102 and to assist in gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material 102 toward the discharge port 106. As can be seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, for example, the discharge port plates 124 are positioned at a steeper angle than the support plate 112. Specifically, the discharge port plates 124 are inclined at an angle ranging from 30 to 70 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. Note that the discharge port plates 124 may be omitted so that the bulk material can enter the discharge port directly from the support plate 112.

[0138] As can be seen in FIG. 4 , the illustrated exhaust port plate 124 includes two vibrators 116. Any number of vibrators 116 may be advantageously used in the exhaust port plate 124. Accordingly, one or more vibrators 116 may be connected to each exhaust port plate 124. In this manner, the vibrators 116 are configured to transfer vibrational energy to the respective exhaust port plate 124 to induce vibrational motion of the exhaust port plate 124. Furthermore, each exhaust port plate 124 may be supported by the support structure 114 in a free-floating manner. By supporting each exhaust port plate 124 in a free-floating manner, the same or similar advantages as those described with respect to the support plate 112 may be realized. As a result, these advantages will not be repeated here to avoid undue repetition.

[0139] Additionally, an intermediate layer 122 is provided between the support structure 114 and the exhaust port plate 124. Thus, the intermediate layer 122, which has vibration isolation properties, can impede the transmission of vibrations from the exhaust port plate 124 to the support structure 114. By providing the intermediate layer 122 between the support structure 114 and the exhaust port plate 124, the same or similar advantages as those described with respect to the support plate 112 may be realized. Therefore, these advantages will not be repeated here to avoid undue repetition.

[0140] In the illustrated system 100, a pair of additional abutment vibration dampers 131 are disposed between the exhaust port plate 124 and the support structure 114. This is shown schematically in phantom in FIG. 4. The additional abutment vibration dampers 131 are configured to prevent downward translation of the angled exhaust port plate 124 toward the exhaust ports 106. In addition to preventing the exhaust port plate 124 from translating downward toward the exhaust ports 106, the additional abutment vibration dampers 131 impede the transmission of vibrations from the exhaust port plate 124 to the support structure 114. The illustrated abutment vibration dampers 131 are of the same type as the abutment vibration dampers 130 described above. The alternative abutment vibration dampers 130 described above may also be advantageously used. The illustrated exhaust port plate 124 of FIG. 4 includes two additional abutment vibration dampers 131. However, any number of additional abutment vibration dampers 131 may be advantageously used.

[0141] The additional abutment vibration dampers 131 are attached to the exhaust port plate 124 and abut against an abutment surface 132 of the support structure 114. More specifically, the additional abutment vibration dampers 131 are each attached to a respective bracket 135, which is attached to the exhaust port plate 124. The illustrated brackets 135, shown in phantom lines in FIG. 4 , are welded to the backside of the exhaust port plate 124, and the mounting brackets of the additional abutment vibration dampers 131 are bolted to the brackets 135 so that the additional abutment vibration dampers 131 are disposed in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface of the exhaust port plate 124. Thus, the additional abutment vibration dampers 131 are provided corresponding to the abutment vibration dampers 130, but are provided on the exhaust port plate 124 rather than the support plate 112. Considering the corresponding provision of the additional abutment vibration dampers 131, the same or similar advantages as those described with respect to the abutment vibration dampers 130 can be realized. Therefore, these advantages will not be repeated here to avoid excessive repetition.

[0142] The exhaust port plates 124 may or may not include the vibrators 116. Some exhaust port plates 124 may include the vibrators 116, while others may not.

[0143] Attention is now directed to Figure 6, in which three alternative designs for intermediate layer 122 are shown, in schematic form. That is, Figure 6 shows three alternative designs for intermediate layer 122 that are distinct from the intermediate layer described above in connection with Figure 4. All three alternative designs for intermediate layer 122 provide the same or similar advantages as those described with respect to intermediate layer 122 of Figure 4. Therefore, these advantages will not be repeated here to avoid undue repetition.

[0144] However, all three alternative designs of intermediate layer 122 have progressive compression characteristics. The progressive compression characteristics are achieved in different ways in each design of FIG.

[0145] In the topmost design D1 of FIG. 6 , the intermediate layer 122 includes two different materials D1:1, D1:2 of different thicknesses arranged side by side within the intermediate layer 122. The intermediate layer 122 is shown disposed on a backing plate 118. The support plate 112, which would actually be disposed on top of the intermediate layer 122, is omitted to more clearly show the intermediate layer 122. Furthermore, in the illustrated design D1 of the intermediate layer 122, the respective materials D1:1, D1:2 have different stiffnesses. Material D1:1 is softer than material D1:2. Material D1:1 is thicker than material D1:2. Material D1:1 is provided in a wider strip than material D1:2.

[0146] In the illustrated design D1 of Figure 6, the material strips of material D1:1 are formed of an elastomer mat sold by Getzner under the trade name Sylomer® AFM 35 (Acoustic Floor Mat 35), while the material strips of material D1:2 are formed of an elastomer mat sold by Getzner under the trade name Sylomer® SR 450. The material strips of material D1:1 occupy 85% of the surface, and the material strips of material D1:2 occupy the remaining 15%. Other materials may be used advantageously.

[0147] Design D1 provides a progressive compression characteristic. For relatively low loads, the support plate 112 is supported solely by the material strips of material D1:1. However, as the load increases, the material strips of material D1:1 become increasingly compressed, which means that the material strips of material D1:2 also begin to support the support plate 112 as they are subjected to increasing loads. Thus, for relatively large loads, both the material strips of material D1:1 and the material strips of material D1:2 support the support plate 112.

[0148] The different materials D1:1 and D1:2 may not only be provided as strips extending alongside one another. Each material D1:1 and D1:2 may be provided as a dot, one material may be provided as an "island" surrounded by the other, or the materials may be provided as a grid, to give some non-limiting examples. Furthermore, any number of different materials may be advantageously used.

[0149] In the center design D2 of FIG. 6, the intermediate layer 122 includes two different materials D2:1, D2:2 of different thicknesses stacked on top of each other within the intermediate layer 122. The intermediate layer 122 is shown disposed on a backing plate 118. The support plate 112, which would actually be disposed on top of the intermediate layer 122, is omitted to more clearly show the intermediate layer 122. Furthermore, in the illustrated design D2 of the intermediate layer 122, the respective materials D2:1, D2:2 have different stiffnesses. Material D2:1 is softer than material D2:2. Material D2:1 is thicker than material D2:2.

[0150] In the illustrated design D2 of Figure 6, the material layers of material D2:1 are formed of an elastomer mat sold by Getzner under the trade name Sylomer® SR 450, while the material layers of material D2:2 are formed of an elastomer mat sold by Getzner under the trade name Sylomer® AFM 35 (Acoustic Floor Mat 35). Other materials may be used advantageously.

[0151] Design D2 provides a progressive compression characteristic. For relatively low loads, support plate 112 primarily compresses material D2:1. For relatively high loads, however, both material D2:1 and material D2:2 are compressed.

[0152] In the bottommost design D3 of FIG. 6, the intermediate layer 122 is formed of a single material D3:1. The intermediate layer 122 is shown disposed on a backing plate 118. The support plate 112, which would actually be disposed on top of the intermediate layer 122, is omitted to more clearly show the intermediate layer 122. Furthermore, in the illustrated design D3 of the intermediate layer 122, the material D3:1 is a textured material. More specifically, the material D3:1 has a wavy surface. That is, the material D3:1 comprises "peaks" and "valleys," as can be seen in FIG. 6.

[0153] In the illustrated design D3 of Figure 6, the material layer of material D3:1 is formed of an elastomer mat sold by Getzner under the trade name Sylomer® AFM 35. Other materials may be used to advantage.

[0154] Design D3 provides a progressive compression characteristic. For relatively low loads, the support plate 112 is supported solely by the top of the material D3:1. However, as the load increases, the material layer of material D3:1 becomes increasingly compressed, meaning that the surface area of ​​the material layer of material D3:1 begins to increasingly support the support plate 112 as it is subjected to increasing loads. Therefore, for relatively large loads, the valleys of the material layer of material D3:1 also support the support plate 112.

[0155] The vibrators 116 of the system 100 are advantageously independently controllable. Thus, each vibrator 116 can be operated independently of any other vibrator in the system 100. The operating parameters of each vibrator 116 can also be adjusted independently of any other vibrator in the system 100. The operating parameters can include the amount of vibration energy, frequency, duration of operation, and pattern of operation, to give some non-limiting examples.

[0156] By having independently controllable vibrators 116, several advantages may be realized. For example, it may be possible to control the vibrators 116 in a predetermined pattern to achieve efficient feeding of the bulk material 102 toward the discharge port 106. A typical pattern may be to first activate one or more vibrators 116 closest to the discharge port. To save energy and avoid causing vibration for an unnecessarily long period of time, the associated vibrator 116 may be activated first after the spontaneous gravity-induced flow of the bulk material 102 has stopped. Then, vibrators 116 located further away from the discharge port may be activated sequentially to feed the bulk material 102 along the support plate 112 toward the discharge port 106 in an efficient manner.

[0157] The bulk material level may be monitored within the bulk material holding space 104. The vibrator 116 may be controlled based on the bulk material level within the bulk material holding space 104. Sticking or clogging of the bulk material 102 within the bulk material holding space 104 may be monitored. The vibrator 116 may be controlled based on sticking or clogging of the bulk material 102 within the bulk material holding space 104.

[0158] Referring now to FIG. 7, a conceptual illustration of an onshore storage 300 comprising a storage and retrieval system 100 of the type described above is shown. As can be seen in FIG. 7, the onshore storage 300 includes several modules, each including two opposing support plates 112 that are inclined toward a centrally located discharge port 106. The modules are arranged alongside one another in three rows within the illustrated onshore storage 300. In other words, the storage and retrieval system 100 includes multiple modules, each including a support plate 112 and a discharge port 106. Furthermore, the support plate 112 includes a vibrator 116 and is positioned to be supported on a support structure 114 in a free-floating manner, as described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 2-4.

[0159] Additionally, the storage and retrieval system 100 for onshore storage 300 includes an intermediate layer 122 disposed between the support structure 114 and the support plate 112. The intermediate layer 122 has vibration isolation properties such that the transmission of vibrations from the support plate 112 to the support structure 114 is canceled. Similarly, the support structure 114 is damper-connected to the underlying main structure 150 by a structural vibration damper 126 such that the transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system 100 to the main structure 150 is canceled.

[0160] A conveyor 110 is positioned below each row of discharge ports 106. Thus, three conveyors 100 are used in the illustrated land storage 300. When designing a land storage 300 that includes a storage and retrieval system 100 of the type described above, it should be understood that any number of modules may be arranged in any number of rows. Thus, any number of support plates 112, vibrators 116, conveyors 110, etc. may be advantageously used in the land storage 300. Thus, the above-described type of land storage 300 is a self-unloading land storage 300.

[0161] However, it should be understood that the storage and retrieval system 100 of the land-based storage 300 may be used with any of the features described in connection with the storage and retrieval system 100 described in connection with Figures 2-6. These features will not be repeated here to avoid undue repetition.

[0162] The advantages associated with the storage and retrieval system 100 for land-based storage 300 are the same as or similar to those described above in connection with Figures 2-6 and therefore will not be repeated to avoid undue repetition.

[0163] Referring to Figure 8, there is a conceptual illustration of how hoppers 400 might be used to unload a vessel. Each hopper 400 includes a storage and retrieval system 100 of the type described above. The hopper 400 includes two opposing support plates 112 that slope toward a centrally located discharge port 106. The support plates 112 are supported by a support structure 114 in a free-floating manner, as described above in connection with Figures 2-5. Each support plate 112 includes two vibrators 116 of the type described above. In other words, a typical hopper 400 includes a bulk material storage space 104 that tapers downward toward the discharge port 106.

[0164] Additionally, the storage and retrieval system 100 of the hopper 400 includes an intermediate layer 122 disposed between the support structure 114 and the support plate 112. The intermediate layer 122 has vibration isolation properties such that the transmission of vibrations from the support plate 112 to the support structure 114 is canceled. Similarly, the support structure 114 is damper-connected to the main structure 150 in the form of a pier by a structural vibration damper 126 such that the transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system 100 to the main structure 150 is canceled.

[0165] For example, when a grab bucket is used to handle bulk material 102 on a ship, the bulk material 102 may be temporarily stored in a hopper 400. As shown in Figure 8, when unloading bulk cargo from a ship, the grab bucket can grab the bulk material in the ship's hold and then drop the bulk material 102 into a hopper 400 located near the ship, for example, at a pier as shown in Figure 8.

[0166] Alternatively, a hopper 400 or multiple hoppers 400 of the type described above may be located above deck on the ship.

[0167] A conveyor, conveyor belt, transfer screw, or the like for transporting bulk cargo from the ship may typically be located below each hopper 400. A conveyor, transfer screw, or the like may also be provided on the ship. A conveyor or the like may also be provided on a pier or dock.

[0168] The grab bucket or buckets used to unload cargo holds of a ship may be hoisted by a crane located above the deck of the ship itself.The grab bucket or buckets used to unload cargo holds of a ship may be hoisted by a crane located on a pier, dock, barge or similar.

[0169] The illustrated type of hopper 400 can be made significantly lower and therefore lighter than prior art hoppers. As an example, the weight of a hopper 400 having a bulk material handling capacity of 50 tons per run can be reduced from 90 tons to 30 tons. The reduced height and weight of the hopper 400 can reduce ship roll compared to a standard prior art hopper when the hopper is mounted above the deck of the ship itself.

[0170] When the hopper 400 is used with large naval vessels and large cranes, a single grab by the grab bucket can drop 40-50 tons of bulk material 102 into the hopper 400. The bulk material 102 can then be stored in the hopper 400 temporarily or for an extended period of time. The hopper can be emptied in approximately 30-40 seconds, for example, even if 40-50 tons of bulk material 102 is dropped into it. The hopper can then typically be emptied onto a conveyor, transfer screw, or other transport means.

[0171] Also, bulk material 102 may be stored in hopper 400 for extended periods of time, for example, when installing hopper 400 in a storage tower. Discharge port 106 may exit onto a conveyor, a conveying screw, or a ship's hold, to give some non-limiting examples.

[0172] The storage and retrieval system 100 of the hopper 400 may be used with any of the features described in connection with the storage and retrieval system 100 described in connection with Figures 2-6. These features will not be repeated here to avoid undue repetition.

[0173] The advantages associated with the hopper storage and retrieval system 100 are the same as or similar to those discussed above in connection with Figures 2-6 and, as a result, will not be repeated to avoid undue repetition.

[0174] As described in detail above, the storage and recovery system 100 can be used for handling a wide variety of bulk materials 102, such as, for example, wood chips, wood pellets, sawdust, coal, ore, gypsum rock, bauxite, alumina, cement, sand, gravel, crushed stone, salt, grain, and aggregates.

[0175] It will be understood that the inventive concept is not limited to the variations and examples shown. Accordingly, several modifications and variations are contemplated within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0176] List of Items in the Illustrative Embodiment IEE1. A storage and recovery system for bulk materials, said system comprising: a bulk material holding space having a bottom with a discharge port, wherein the bottom includes an inclined support plate for supporting the bulk material and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material toward the discharge port; a support structure for supporting the support plate; one or more vibrators connected to the support plate and configured to transfer vibrational energy to the support plate to induce vibrational movement of the support plate; Here, the support plate is inclined at an angle in the range of 15 to 25 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane. wherein the support plate is supported by the support structure in a free-floating manner; an intermediate layer disposed between the support structure and the support plate, the intermediate layer having vibration isolation properties such that transmission of vibrations from the support plate to the support structure is impeded; Equipped with A storage and retrieval system wherein the support structure is damped connected to the primary structure by at least one structural vibration damper such that transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system to the primary structure is impeded.

[0177] IEE2. A storage and recovery system according to IEE1, wherein at least one structural vibration damper is located at any interface between the supporting structure and the primary structure.

[0178] IEE3. The storage and retrieval system according to IEE1 or 2, wherein the system further comprises an abutting vibration damper disposed between the support plate and the support structure and configured to prevent downward translation of the support plate towards the discharge port.

[0179] IEE4. Storage and recovery system according to IEE3, in which the abutment vibration damper is attached to a support plate and abuts against the abutment surface of the support structure.

[0180] IEE5. The storage and retrieval system of any one of IEE1 to 4, wherein the support structure comprises a backing plate, and wherein the support plate rests on the backing plate.

[0181] IEE6. The storage and retrieval system as described in IEE5, wherein the abutting vibration damper extends through openings and / or slots in the backing plate.

[0182] IEE7. The storage and retrieval system of any one of IEE1 to 6, wherein the intermediate layer comprises an elastomeric material.

[0183] IEE8. The storage and retrieval system of any one of IEE1 to 7, wherein the intermediate layer comprises at least two different materials of different thicknesses arranged side by side within the intermediate layer, and / or the intermediate layer comprises at least two different materials stacked on top of each other, and / or the intermediate layer is textured to have progressive compression properties.

[0184] IEE9. The storage and retrieval system of any one of IEE1 to 8, wherein the structural vibration damper comprises a metal-based damping body having progressive compression characteristics.

[0185] IEE10. The storage and retrieval system of any one of IEE1 to 9, wherein the abutting vibration damper comprises an elastomeric body disposed between the mounting brackets.

[0186] IEE11. The storage and retrieval system according to any one of IEE1 to 10, wherein the structural vibration damper and, if present, the abutment vibration damper are replaceable.

[0187] IEE12. A storage and retrieval system according to any one of IEE1 to 11, wherein the system further comprises a clamping profile for clamping a peripheral portion of the support plate and attached to the support structure, the clamping profile disposed between the peripheral portion of the support plate and the clamping profile housing a vibration-damping lining.

[0188] IEE13. The discharge port further comprises one or more inclined discharge port plates for guiding the bulk material and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material toward the discharge port, wherein each discharge port plate is inclined at an angle in the range of 30 to 70 degrees relative to a horizontal plane; wherein one or more agitators are connected to each exhaust port plate and configured to transmit vibrational energy to the exhaust port plate to induce vibrational motion of the exhaust port plate, wherein each exhaust port plate is supported by a support structure in a free-floating manner; The storage and retrieval system of any one of IEE1 to 12, wherein an intermediate layer is further disposed between the support structure and the one or more discharge port plates.

[0189] IEE14. The storage and retrieval system of IEE13, wherein the system further comprises an additional abutting vibration damper disposed between the one or more discharge port plates and the support structure and configured to prevent downward translation of the one or more angled discharge port plates toward the discharge ports.

[0190] IEE15. The storage and retrieval system as described in IEE14, wherein a further abutting vibration damper is attached to the one or more discharge port plates and abuts a further abutting surface of the support structure.

[0191] IEE16. A storage and retrieval system according to any one of IEE1 to 15, wherein the system further comprises an additional inclined support plate for supporting the bulk material and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material from the opposite side thereof towards the discharge port.

[0192] A ship equipped with a storage and retrieval system according to any one of IEE17.IEE1 to IEE14.

[0193] IEE18.Onshore storage comprising a storage and retrieval system according to any one of IEE1 to IEE14.

[0194] A hopper equipped with a storage and retrieval system according to any one of IEE19.IEE1 to IEE14.

[0195] IEE 20. Use of a storage and recovery system according to any one of IEE 1 to 14 for handling bulk materials selected from the group consisting of wood chips, wood pellets, sawdust, coal, ore, gypsum rock, bauxite, alumina, cement, sand, gravel, crushed stone, salt, grain, and aggregates.

Claims

1. A storage and recovery system (100) for bulk materials (102), said system comprising: a bulk material holding space (104) having a bottom (108) with a discharge port (106), wherein the bottom (108) includes an inclined support plate (112) for supporting the bulk material (102) and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material (102) toward the discharge port (106); a support structure (114) that supports the support plate (112); one or more vibrators (116) connected to the support plate (112) and configured to transfer vibrational energy to the support plate (112) to induce vibrational motion of the support plate (112); wherein the support plate (112) is supported by the support structure (114) in a free-floating manner; an intermediate layer (122) disposed between the support structure (114) and the support plate (112), the intermediate layer (122) having vibration isolation properties such that transmission of vibrations from the support plate (112) to the support structure (114) is impeded; Equipped with The support plate (112) is inclined at an angle (α) in the range of 15 to 25 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane, the support structure (114) is damped to the main structure (150) by at least one structural vibration damper (126) such that transmission of vibrations from the storage and retrieval system (100) to the main structure (150) is impeded; a contact vibration damper (130) disposed between the support plate (112) and the support structure (114) and configured to prevent translation of the support plate (112) downward toward the discharge port (106).

2. The storage and retrieval system (100) of claim 1, wherein at least one structural vibration damper (126) is disposed at any interface between the support structure (114) and the primary structure (150).

3. 3. The storage and retrieval system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the abutment vibration damper (130) is attached to the support plate (112) and abuts against an abutment surface (132) of the support structure (114).

4. 4. The storage and retrieval system (100) of claim 1, wherein the support structure (114) comprises a backing plate (118), and wherein the support plate (112) rests on the backing plate (118).

5. The storage and retrieval system (100) of claim 4, wherein the abutment vibration damper (130) extends through an opening (136) and / or a slot in the backing plate (118).

6. The storage and retrieval system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the intermediate layer (122) comprises an elastomeric material.

7. 7. The storage and retrieval system of claim 1, wherein the intermediate layer has progressive compression characteristics due to the intermediate layer comprising at least two different materials of different thicknesses arranged side by side within the intermediate layer, and / or due to the intermediate layer comprising at least two different materials stacked on top of each other, and / or due to the intermediate layer being textured.

8. The storage and retrieval system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the structural vibration damper (126) comprises a metal-based damping mass having progressive compression characteristics.

9. The storage and retrieval system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the abutment vibration damper (130) comprises an elastomeric body disposed between mounting brackets.

10. The storage and retrieval system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the structural vibration damper (126) and the abutment vibration damper (130) are interchangeable.

11. 11. The storage and retrieval system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the system further comprises a clamping profile (120) that clamps a peripheral portion of the support plate (112) and is attached to the support structure (114), the clamping profile (120) containing a vibration-damping lining (121) arranged between the peripheral portion of the support plate (112) and the clamping profile (120).

12. the discharge port (106) further comprises one or more inclined discharge port plates (124) for guiding the bulk material (102) and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material (102) toward the discharge port (106), wherein each discharge port plate (106) is inclined at an angle in the range of 30 to 70 degrees relative to a horizontal plane; one or more vibrators (116) connected to each discharge port plate (124) and configured to transmit vibrational energy to the discharge port plate (124) to induce vibrational motion of the discharge port plate (124), wherein each discharge port plate (124) is supported by the support structure (114) in a free-floating manner; 12. The storage and retrieval system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the intermediate layer (122) is further disposed between the support structure (114) and the one or more discharge port plates (124).

13. 13. The storage and retrieval system (100) of claim 12, wherein the system (100) further comprises an additional abutting vibration damper (131) disposed between the one or more discharge port plates (124) and the support structure (114) and configured to prevent downward translation of the one or more inclined discharge port plates (124) toward the discharge ports (106).

14. 14. The storage and retrieval system (100) of claim 13, wherein the further abutting vibration damper (131) is attached to the one or more discharge port plates (124) and abuts a further abutting surface of the support structure (114).

15. 15. The storage and recovery system (100) of claim 1, further comprising an additional inclined support plate (112) for supporting the bulk material (102) and for assisting gravity-induced feeding of the bulk material (102) from the opposite side toward the discharge port (106).

16. A vessel (200) comprising a storage and retrieval system according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A land-based storage (300) comprising a storage and recovery system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

18. A hopper (400) comprising a storage and retrieval system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

19. 16. Use of the storage and recovery system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 15 for handling bulk materials (102) selected from the group consisting of wood chips, wood pellets, sawdust, coal, ore, gypsum rock, bauxite, alumina, cement, sand, gravel, crushed stone, salt, grain, and aggregates.

Images