Connection device and connection assembly

Abstract

Connection device and connection assembly This connecting device (D) comprises: a translationally movable shaft (17); a piston (19) integral with the shaft (17); a sleeve (35) extending around the shaft (17), wherein the sleeve (35) is movable between a rear position and a front position; and a fixed member received in the sleeve (35), wherein each fixed member comprises a fixed member movable relative to the sleeve between a fixed state and an unlocked state. The shaft (17) is movable through an intermediate position between a disconnected position and a connected position, wherein at the disconnected position the shaft (17) does not prevent the movement of the fixed member in its unlocked state and the sleeve (35) is in the front position, wherein at the connected position the shaft (17) prevents the movement of the fixed member in its unlocked state and the sleeve (35) is in the rear position, and at the intermediate position the shaft (17) prevents the movement of the fixed member into its unlocked state and the sleeve (35) is in the front position.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connecting device between two plates and a connecting assembly including such a device. Background Technology

[0002] In the steel and casting industry, it is known that molten metal to be discharged from a work station is fed from a set of movable transfer ladles to a continuous casting machine, for example, a rolling mill tundish. The movement of the transfer ladles between workstations, waiting stations, and maintenance stations is performed in harsh environments (above 200°C), and since no manual operation is possible, robotic operation is required to manipulate the transfer ladles and perform peripheral connection operations.

[0003] In fact, in addition to the operating system for opening the transfer ladles, each ladle is provided with a means for supplying different fluids or energy. Thus, each ladle is equipped with a multiconnection plate called a "fixed plate" designed to be coupled to another complementary multiconnection plate called a "mobile plate."

[0004] The operating plates are connected to pneumatic, hydraulic, electric, or other "upstream" supply chains. Each ladle used in the tundish obtains fluid and energy supplies through these temporary and removable connections.

[0005] At the standby station, the ladle (and its fixed plate), which is a robot cell on the movable plate side, ensures the operation for approaching and joining the multi-connection plates. In particular, the robot plays a role in partially performing the task of adjusting the centers of the two plates and joining them. One step is to bring the plates close to each other under the operation of the robot, and specifically, to lock the center shaft of the movable plate into the fixed plate to secure it in place.

[0006] Finally, the last step is for the shaft mechanism at the center of the plates to take over the role of the robot from the threshold of the axial approach of the plates, ensuring the final approach and fixation of the plates under controlled speed and controlled effort. This step is performed not by a robot, but by a connecting device which is the object of the present invention.

[0007] Therefore, after the shaft is engaged with the fixed plate with the help of a robotic means, it is necessary to start the joining operation of the plates using a piston integrated with the shaft in order to fix the position to the plate and secure the joining of the multi-connection plates.

[0008] WO2013 / 074047A2 discloses, for example, a manual fixing device, but the operating steps are not detailed.

[0009] EP0247956 discloses a fixing mechanism for assembling connecting elements of support elements. The fixing mechanism is included in a movable member to receive and fix a tubular shaft of a fixed support member. After the latch is snapped onto the shaft by manual operation, the two support elements are forced together by pneumatic or hydraulic support of a piston.

[0010] However, the latching solution requires specific spring mechanisms and is dangerous to install because it can be activated even when the support elements are still closed together. Additionally, the position of the support elements is not fixed.

[0011] EP2226140 discloses an apparatus for controlling the opening and closing of a control valve for casting liquid metal, wherein the apparatus comprises means for coupling an external drive cylinder to a valve housing and a system for securing a shaft to the valve. The securing and coupling of the drive cylinder to the valve is performed simultaneously by a control unit in a housing unit integral with the valve and in a housing hydraulically separated from it. Upon release, the control unit uncouples the coupling means and hydraulically releases the cylinder.

[0012] To open and close the valve, the control unit must manage multiple pipes, which increases the chamber's circuitry and sealing means in an unfavorable and costly manner. Furthermore, the safety of the fixture is linked to the connection and pressure maintenance within the hydraulic chamber, which is not entirely satisfactory. Unlike a stable, so-called tamper-proof mechanical position that remains in place despite potential leaks, the EP2226140 element is subject to varying pressures, which fails to guarantee functionality over time and poses a risk of malfunction.

[0013] The present invention aims to improve these disadvantages by proposing a new connection device for a multi-connection plate that improves the technological level of the connection field in the steel industry.

[0014] To this end, the present invention relates to a connecting device between two plates, wherein one plate is a fixed plate and the other plate is a movable plate, and each of the two plates supports at least one hydraulic, pneumatic and / or electric circuit connecting element configured to connect with a connecting element of the same type on the other plate, and said connecting device is disposed on one of the two plates.

[0015] - A cylinder body extending along a central axis and containing a main cavity;

[0016] - A shaft capable of translational movement within the body along the central axis of the cylinder body; and

[0017] - Includes a piston that is integral with the shaft, is movable within the main cavity of the cylinder body, and divides the main cavity between the front chamber and the rear chamber,

[0018] The above connection device is:

[0019] - A sleeve extending around the shaft, wherein the sleeve is movable along the central axis relative to the cylinder body between a rear position and a front position; and

[0020] - further comprising fixed members accommodated in the sleeve, wherein each fixed member is movable with respect to the sleeve between a fixed state and an released state, wherein in the fixed state each fixed member is spaced apart from the central axis and in the released state each fixed member is closer to the central axis than in the fixed state.

[0021] The shaft is movable along the central axis between the disconnection position and the connection position, through an intermediate position between the disconnection position and the connection position:

[0022] - In the above disconnection position, the shaft does not prevent the movement of the fixed member in its released state, and the sleeve is in the above forward position,

[0023] - In the above connection position, the shaft prevents the movement of the fixed member in its released state, and the sleeve is in a rear position,

[0024] - At the above intermediate position, the shaft prevents the movement of the above fixed member to its released state, and the sleeve is characterized by being in the above forward position.

[0025] According to the present invention, mechanical fixation of the shaft and coupling of the plate are achieved by a single pressure command to the piston.

[0026] According to an advantageous but non-essential aspect of the present invention, such a connecting device may include one or more of the following features taken according to any technically permissible combination.

[0027] - The above connecting device includes means for elastically returning the sleeve to the forward position.

[0028] - The cylinder body has a mechanical stop that limits the forward displacement of the sleeve at the forward position of the shaft.

[0029] - The above-mentioned fixing member is a fixing ball, and the sleeve includes a radial housing capable of guiding the fixing ball between its fixed state and its released state.

[0030] - The shaft includes a guide ramp for guiding the fixed member between its released state and its fixed state.

[0031] - The guide ramp provides a circular bearing diameter configured to have the fixed member in a fixed state, and the shaft has a groove, the groove is juxtaposed at the rear of the guide ramp and provides an adjacent bearing diameter that allows movement of the fixed member to the released state.

[0032] - The above connecting device includes means for fixing the shaft within the cylinder body along the central axis of the shaft at the connecting position.

[0033] - The above fixing means includes at least one fixing ball radially movable within a recess of the cylinder body between a protruding position and a recessed position, wherein in the protruding position the fixing ball can penetrate a groove of the shaft and prevent axial displacement of the shaft relative to the cylinder body, and in the recessed position the fixing ball does not penetrate the groove of the shaft.

[0034] - The above fixing means further comprises a fixing ring movable within an auxiliary cavity of the cylinder body along the central axis between a fixed position and a released position, wherein at the fixed position, the cut conical surface of the fixing ring retains the fixing ball protruding into the groove of the shaft, and at the released position, the fixing ball is in its retracted position and is received in the groove of the fixing ring.

[0035] - The cut conical surface of the fixed ring forms a taper that flares toward the groove of the fixed ring.

[0036] - The above connecting device includes an elastic return member for pushing the fixing ring toward its fixed position.

[0037] - The above connection device includes a protective ring surrounding the shaft, the protective ring being movable along the central axis within an internal channel in which the shaft moves, and driven by the shaft between a protected position and a retracted position while the shaft moves from the intermediate position to the connection position, wherein at the protected position the protective ring maintains the fixed ball in a retracted position toward the main body housing, and at the retracted position the protective ring no longer maintains the fixed ball in a retracted position.

[0038] - The fixed ring and the auxiliary cavity form a chamber connected to a pipe, and the pipe allows pressurized fluid to be supplied to the chamber.

[0039] - The above connecting device includes a first pipe connected to the front chamber and a second pipe connected to the rear chamber, wherein the first pipe and the second pipe supply a force-applying fluid to the front chamber and the rear chamber, respectively.

[0040] The present invention also relates to a connection assembly for connecting a movable plate to a fixed plate:

[0041] - A movable plate supporting at least a first circuit connection element;

[0042] - A fixed plate supporting at least one connecting element complementary to the first element of the above-mentioned movable plate; and

[0043] - Includes at least one centering member configured to position the movable plate and the fixed plate relative to each other,

[0044] One of the above plates includes the aforementioned connecting device, and the other of the above plates includes a fixed barrel forming a mouth, wherein the mouth is characterized by being able to axially maintain the fixed member of the connecting device in the fixed barrel when the fixed member is in its fixed state. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0045] The present invention will be better understood in light of the following description of a connecting device according to its principles, given by non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings below, and other advantages will become more apparent: FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a connection assembly according to the present invention including a fixed plate and a movable plate. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a connection device and a fixed barrel according to the present invention in a disconnected position. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the connection device of Figure 2 in an intermediate fixed state. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the connection device of Figure 2 during the transient connection stage. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of section V of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view at the connection location of the connection device of Figure 2. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of part VII of Figure 6. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the connection device in the first disconnection step. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the connection device in the second disconnection step. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the connection device in the third disconnection step. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the connection device of the fourth disconnection step. FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the connecting device of the drawing according to planes XII-1 and XII-2. FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a connection device according to planes XIII-1 and XIII-2. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a connection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0046] FIG. 1 shows a connection assembly (E) of a fixed plate (A) and a movable plate (B) complementary to the fixed plate (A). The connection assembly (E) includes a fixed plate (A), a movable plate (B), and a connection device (D).

[0047] The front or distant side of a plate is defined as the side of the plate facing another plate, that is, the side of the connecting element. The rear or near side of a plate is defined as the side opposite the contact surface of the plate, that is, the side of the connecting element opposite to the plate.

[0048] The fixed plate (A) consists of a cast body (1) that extends mainly in a vertical plane. The fixed plate (A) is intended to be attached to a mobile or nomadic transfer ladle (not shown), which is intended for continuous casting of metal in a tundish (not shown) of a rolling or casting machine.

[0049] The fixed plate (A) includes a vertical contact surface (P1) and is provided with two guide columns (3) located on one side of the casting (1) perpendicular to the contact surface (P1) and facing the movable plate (B), and various male connection elements (5) (e.g., pneumatic, hydraulic, electric) protrude from the vertical contact surface (P1). For example, the fixed plate (A) may include a tubular upper connection element (5A) that provides an electrical connection. The connection element (5) is connected to a corresponding downstream circuit through a connection passage within the casting (1).

[0050] The central region of the fixed plate (A) accommodates a cube-shaped hollow movable block (7). A fixed barrel (70) integral with the movable block is located in the center of this block and is also integral with the casting (1). The fixed barrel (70) has a reduced cylindrical mouth that forms a contact surface (S70) facing the rear of the fixed plate (A). This contact surface (S70) is configured to accommodate a fixed member of the movable plate.

[0051] The movable plate (B) is composed of a casting (9) that extends mainly in a vertical plane. The movable plate (B) provides a contact surface (P9), on which a socket (13) is located to accommodate various female connection elements (11) (pneumatic, hydraulic, electric) and a guide column (3), and the female connection elements (11) and the socket (13) are located on one side of the casting (9) facing the fixed plate (A) and perpendicular to the contact surface (P9). Various connection passages within the casting (9) allow the connection elements (11) to be connected to a corresponding upstream circuit (not shown).

[0052] The casting (9) includes a cylindrical central bore (90) designed to accommodate a connecting device (D). The connecting device (D) includes a cylinder body (15) centered on a central axis (X15). Hereinafter, terms such as "axis" and "radius" are used with reference to the central axis (X15).

[0053] The cylinder body (15) is assembled from four parts: a main body (150), a flange (152), a rear cover (154), and a center body (156). The main body (150) is axially positioned between the flange (152) and the rear cover (154).

[0054] The connecting device (D) includes a shaft (17). The shaft (17) extends along a longitudinal axis that coincides with the central axis (X15) and is integral with the piston (19). The piston (19) is fixed to the shaft (17) and can move within the central cavity (21) of the cylinder body (15) which is closed by the rear cover (154). The central cavity (21) is defined as a cylindrical enclosure of the cylinder body (15) that extends around an axis that coincides with the axis (X15) of the cylinder body (15). The piston (19) divides the central cavity (21) between the front chamber (21A) and the rear chamber (21B). The front chamber (21A) and the rear chamber (21B) each define the rear chamber volume and the front chamber volume, respectively, which are variable depending on the relative position of the piston (19) in the central cavity (21) along the central axis (X15). In particular, the volume of the front chamber (21A) is limited by the intermediate wall (158) of the main body (150) which extends perpendicularly to the central axis (X15) toward the interior of the main body (150).

[0055] The piston (19) forms an outer radial surface (190) that contacts the cylinder wall (210) of the central cavity (21). This outer radial surface (190) has a seal (192) that contacts the cylinder wall (210).

[0056] Translational guidance of the shaft (17) in the cylinder body (15) is provided by the inner surface (154A) of the centrally perforated rear cover (154) and the inner surface of the centrally perforated intermediate wall (158) of the cylinder body (15). Each guide surface accommodates an O-ring, and each O-ring is secured by an axially attached pierced cover. The shaft (17) may rotate freely relative to the cylinder body (15), but may be indexed at a fixed angular position along the central axis (X15) of the central cavity (21). The disconnected position, connected position, and intermediate position are defined as the relative positions of the shaft (17) to the cylinder body (15).

[0057] The shaft (17) extends longitudinally beyond the rear cover (154) and beyond the flange (152) located at the front of the cylinder body (15). An adjacent or rear portion (171) of the shaft (17) may include a marker indicating to an operator the position of the shaft (17) relative to the cylinder body (15).

[0058] The cylinder body (15) includes a cylindrical auxiliary cavity (23), which is axially partitioned between the circular wall and the intermediate wall (158) of the central body (156), and is radially partitioned internally by the central body (156) extending around the shaft (17) and externally by the main body (150).

[0059] The shaft (17) includes a groove (170) that forms a recessed relief on the outer surface of the shaft (17). Depending on the movement of the shaft (17) relative to the cylinder body (15), the groove (170) is located axially in front of the auxiliary cavity (23) (Figs. 2 and 3) or axially in the auxiliary cavity (23) (Figs. 4 and 6).

[0060] The central body (156) is generally cylindrical and extends between the adjacent face of the flange (152) and the circular face of the intermediate wall (158). The central body (156) includes a radial recess (156A) formed in the thickness direction of the wall of the central body (156), and a fixing ball (25) is received within this recess. There may be six fixing balls (25), or at least one fixing ball (25). The fixing ball (25) is radially movable between the protruding positions shown in FIG. 7, in which the fixing ball (25) protrudes into the groove (170) of the shaft (17). In this position, the fixing ball (25) prevents axial movement of the shaft (17) relative to the cylinder body (15). In another position called the retracted position, the fixing ball (25) does not penetrate the groove (25) and does not prevent axial movement of the shaft (17).

[0061] The central body (156) forms an internal channel (156B) centered on a central axis (X15), and the shaft (17) moves within this channel.

[0062] The connecting device (D) includes a fixing ring (27) positioned radially between the main body (150) and the center body (156). The fixing ring (27) provides an internal groove (270) that accommodates a fixing ball (25) when axially aligned with the radial recess (156A) of the center body (156). The fixing ring (27) also has a truncated conical surface (272) positioned at the rear of the internal groove (270) and flared forward, i.e., toward the internal groove (270). The truncated conical surface (272) forms a cone with an angle of inclination of up to about 5°. The fixing ring (27) is translationally movable within an auxiliary cavity (23) between the rear position shown in FIG. 5 and the front position shown in FIG. 7. In the rear position, the inner groove (270) accommodates the fixed ball (25), and in the front position, the cut conical surface (272) provides a support surface for the fixed ball (25) to maintain the fixed ball in a protruding position.

[0063] The fixing ring (27), fixing ball (25), and groove (170) form means for fixing the shaft (17) to the cylinder body (15) along the central axis of the shaft (17) at the connection position.

[0064] The fixed ring (27) has two O-rings (274 and 276) on the inner and outer walls, respectively. Between the front and rear positions, the fixed ring (27) forms a fixed chamber (23A) of variable volume together with the main body (150) and the center body (156), the sealing cross-section of the fixed chamber is determined by the difference in diameter between the two O-rings (274 and 276). The fixed chamber (23A) is also formed by the front wall (271) of the fixed ring (27). This fixed chamber (23A) is provided in the cylinder body (15) and is configured to be filled with a control fluid, preferably a pneumatic fluid, through a pipe (22) that opens at the rear through an orifice (220). The cylinder body (15) includes a fixing spring (29) that is positioned around the portion (278) where the outer diameter of the fixing ring (27) is reduced and presses between the intermediate wall (158) of the cylinder body (15) and the adjacent wall (279) of the fixing ring (279). The fixing ring (27) is pushed toward its forward position by the fixing spring (29). The control fluid present in the fixing chamber (23A) acts on the fixing ring (27) by resisting the spring force of the fixing spring (29). Since the annular space where the fixing spring (29) is located is not a sealed chamber and is affected by ambient pressure, if the pressure inside the chamber (23A) increases, only the spring force of the fixing spring (29) prevents the action of the control fluid.

[0065] The cylinder body (15) also includes a protective ring (31) located radially in an internal channel (156B) between the center body (150) and the shaft (17). The protective ring (31) is driven forward axially by a spring (33), which presses a support disc (159) that is secured to an elastic ring or circlip and partially received within the center body (156) of the cylinder (15). The protective ring (31) provides an external protruding flange (310) that is pressed by the spring (33). The flange (310) is placed on the complementary shoulder (156C) of the center body (156), and this shoulder performs the function of a stop for the protective ring (31) when the protective ring (31) is axially aligned with the radial recess (156A) of the fixed ball (25), and the protective ring (31) holds the fixed ball (25) in a retracted position from the inner channel (156B).

[0066] The connecting device (D) includes a sleeve (35), the wall of the sleeve (35) being radially penetrated by an inclined concave portion (350) located on the side of the distant end (352) of the sleeve (35). The sleeve (35) extends around the distant portion (172) of the shaft (17) and is axially movable relative to the cylinder body (15) between the forward position shown in FIG. 2 and the rear position shown in FIG. 6.

[0067] The inclined concave portion (350) of the sleeve (35) is inclined by an angle (a1) between 40° and 80° with respect to the central axis (X15), preferably equal to 60°. The inclined concave portion (350) forms an axis that divides the axis (X15) in a plane perpendicular to the axis (X15) located in front of the inclined concave portion (350).

[0068] The connecting device (D) includes a fixing member formed by a fixing ball (37) received in an inclined concave portion (350). There may be eight fixing balls (37). The fixing balls (37) are guided radially in the inclined radial concave portion (350) and are movable between the locking configuration shown in FIG. 3 and the release configuration shown in FIG. 2. In the locking configuration, the fixing balls (37) protrude relative to the outer surface (354) of the sleeve (35). In the release configuration, the fixing balls (37) take a radial position closer to the central axis (X15) than in the locking configuration and are therefore retracted from the outer surface (354).

[0069] The sleeve (35) is received within the sleeve (50) around the shaft (17) and provides an inner wall (356) forming a shoulder (356A) that provides a support surface for a spring (39) that presses the shoulder (174) facing forward of the shaft (17), and the sleeve (35) is elastically pressed forward. Alternatively, an elastic return means other than the spring (39) may provide elastic return of the sleeve (35) to a forward position.

[0070] The flange (152) includes a central mouth having a constricted diameter, such as a seat (152A) in which the sleeve (35) slides. The seat (152A) provides a mechanical stop to the close collar (358) of the sleeve (35) at the forward position of the sleeve (35) relative to the cylinder body (15). The seat (152A) provides a mechanical stop to limit the forward movement of the sleeve (35) at the forward position of the shaft (17).

[0071] Optionally, the sleeve (35) may form an axial stop (351) of an extended diameter on its outer surface (354) behind the inclined concave portion (350) to allow support on the front surface of the fixed barrel (70) of the fixed plate (A).

[0072] The shaft (17) receives a fixed ball (37) in an released state and forms a groove (176) in the material that can transport it outward from the fixed state. At the front of the groove (176), the shaft (17) forms a ramp (176A) that is inclined toward the rear of the shaft (17) and helps guide the fixed ball (37) from the released state to the fixed state. The ramp (176A) provides a circular bearing diameter (D1) configured to transport the fixed member in the fixed state away from the central axis (X15). The groove (176) provides an adjacent bearing diameter (D2) smaller than the circular bearing diameter (D1), so that the fixed member can move toward the central axis (X15) in the released state.

[0073] The connection device (D) also includes a pneumatic control member (not shown), such as a pneumatic valve connected to communicate with a computer or human-machine interface, and manages the circulation of control fluid through the front and rear chambers (21A and 21B) and the fixed chamber (23A). Pipes are arranged according to different cutouts of the cylinder body (15) shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 and connect the front chamber (21A), the rear chamber (21B), and the fixed chamber (23A) to respective pneumatic connection elements (not shown) mounted on the rear portion of the movable plate (B). This allows for pressurized connection between the pneumatic valve and the chambers. In particular, at least one pipe (24) is provided to connect the front chamber (21A) to the pneumatic valve by means of a connection port (240) located at the rear of the cylinder body (15). At least one pipe (26) is provided to connect the rear chamber (21B) to a pneumatic valve via a connection port (260) located at the rear of the cylinder body (15). The valve regulates the chamber pressure using a pressurized air system.

[0074] The valve can double-act to control the position of the piston (19).

[0075] The fixed chamber (23A) can be controlled by a single-acting valve, and the return of the fixed ring (27) is ensured by a fixed spring (29).

[0076] The operation of the connecting device (D) is explained with reference to FIGS. 2 to 11. The chamber into which the pressurized fluid is injected is colored black.

[0077] During the step of connecting the transfer ladle to the energy and fluid circuit, an operator or robot cell initiates the connection process of the fixed and movable multi-connection plates (A and B).

[0078] The movable plate (B) is processed by a robot cell (not shown) that pre-positions the movable plate (B), particularly its socket (13), on the guide column (3) of the fixed plate (A) and enables partial access between the fixed plate (A) and the movable plate (B).

[0079] Axial guidance of the fixed and movable plates (A and B), mutual alignment of the connecting elements, and center alignment of the shaft (17) with respect to the fixed barrel (70) are achieved by the guide column (3) during the remainder of the process.

[0080] When the movable plate (B) is about 30 mm, for example 24 mm, from the fixed plate (A), the shaft (17) engages with the fixed barrel (70) of the fixed plate (A). Since the fixed ball (37) can be inserted into the fixed plate (A) as long as the shaft (17) is in the unconnected position (Fig. 2), the fixed ball (37) can freely retract in the unconnected state because it is aligned with the groove (176). The sleeve (35) is in the forward position.

[0081] An end-of-travel detector, such as a proximity sensor, informs the robot cell that the movable plate (B) has reached a point where the pneumatic control system is expected to trigger the retraction of the shaft (17). The device (D) takes over the role of the robot and joins the plates (A and B). With the robot holding the fixed plate (A) with an axial displacement of a certain tolerance, the pneumatic control system controls the supply to the front chamber (21A) and allows the air contained in the rear chamber (21B) to escape. The increase in pressure within the front chamber (21A) causes the shaft (17) to be driven backward relative to the cylinder body (15) according to arrow F1 of FIG. 3. For example, an axial drive of a short stroke of 4 mm causes the fixed ball (37) to come into contact with the ramp (176A) of the shaft (17). The fixed ball (37) is pushed radially outward by the ramp (176A) to reach a fixed state relative to the surface (S70). The fixed ball (37) forms a means for axially holding the movable plate (B) relative to the fixed plate (A) by limiting the relative movement of the shaft (17) and the piston (19) by the fixed barrel (70).

[0082] The sleeve (35) reaches a forward position while advancing relative to the shaft (17) while maintaining contact with the seat (152A) of the flange (152). According to an optional embodiment, the sleeve (35) is supported relative to the fixed barrel (70) by its stop (351).

[0083] The shaft (17) is in an intermediate position (Fig. 3) where it is fixed to the fixed plate (A). The ramp (176A) prevents the fixed ball (37) from returning to the released state. A portion of the shaft (17) protrudes further from the rear of the movable plate (B) than in the unconnected position to indicate that the step of fixing the shaft (17) to the fixed plate (A) is complete.

[0084] In the additional connection process, the robot cell stops operating the movable plate (B), and the position of the movable plate (B) is determined by controlling the axial position of the shaft (17) relative to the cylinder body (15).

[0085] With the sleeve (35) seated against the fixed barrel (70) and the shaft (17) supported by the spring (39), the sleeve (35) and the shaft (17) form a displacement shaft to axially guide the cylinder body (15) and the movable plate (B) in the final stage of bringing the fixed plate (A) closer.

[0086] The sleeve (35) may not be abutted to the fixed barrel (70). In this case, the position of the cylinder body (15) and shaft (17) relative to the fixed plate (A) may provide a specific axial float without affecting the safety of the connection assembly (E).

[0087] The supply of the front chamber (21A) continues and leads to an increase in volume, which tends to push the piston (19) backward and push the cylinder body (15) and the movable plate (B) forward according to arrow F2 of FIG. 4. The fixed ball (25) is held in the groove (270) of the fixed ring (27) by the protective ring (31), which itself is driven forward by its spring (33), in a position protecting the shaft (17) aligned with the recess (156A). The protective ring (31) moves along the shaft (17) under the influence of the recoil of the shaft (17), and the protective ring (31) approaches the groove (170) of the shaft (17) until it reaches the rear of the groove (170) and stops at the shoulder (178) of the shaft (17) (Fig. 5).

[0088] As the plates (A and B) are combined, an axial gap (J1) is formed between the collar (358) of the sleeve (35) and the sheet (152A).

[0089] At the end of the approach stroke of the plates (A and B), as shown in FIG. 6, the fixed ball (25) is no longer held by the protective ring (31), which is axially aligned with respect to the groove (170) and pushed backward to the retracted position by the shoulder (178) in resistance to the force of the spring (33). In the retracted position, the fixed ball (25) is no longer held in the groove (270). The fixed ball (25) is pushed radially into the groove (170) by the cut conical surface (272) and no longer protrudes toward the fixed ring (27). The fixed ring (27) is driven forward by the elastic force of the spring (29). The cut conical surface (272) rests on the fixed ball (25) and holds the fixed ball (25) in the groove (170) through the recess (156A) of the central cylinder body (156). Accordingly, the shaft (17) is fixed axially as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0090] In the configuration of FIG. 6, the plates (A and B) are in surface contact, the cylinder body (15) is fixed onto the shaft (17) via its center body (150), and the shaft (17) itself is fixed to the front of the fixed barrel (70). Peripheral connectors (5 and 11) for connecting the plates (A and B) are coupled so that a circuit such as pneumatic or hydraulic power is established between the plates (A and B), and more broadly between the fluid / energy network and the ladle. The connection assembly (E) is in a connection position, and that position is detected by a contact sensor. Then the shaft (17) is in a connection position.

[0091] At the plate connection position, a repulsive force of about 150 daN connected to the plate connection circuit tends to push the plates (A and B) together. This force tends to push the fixing ball (25) backward so that it comes into contact with the adjacent wall of the groove, which tends to push the fixing ball back into the concave area by centrifugal force so that it comes into contact with the cut conical wall inside the fixing ring. Because the slope is small, the centripetal force does not generate an axial component opposite to the spring, which is small enough to push the fixing ring against the spring.

[0092] The combined position of the plates is ensured by the mechanical fixation of the fixing ball (25) within the shaft (17) relative to the cylinder body (15), which ensures that the mechanical connection of the connection assembly (E) is maintained to secure the installation during the circuit supply operation. After the supply operation, the plates (A and B) are disconnected. The initiation of the disconnection of the plates (A and B) is determined by the release of the fixing ball (25) by the fixing ring (27) to allow the cylinder body (15) to freely translate relative to the shaft (17).

[0093] When the fixed chamber (23A) is pressed, the fixed ring (27) moves backward in resistance to the spring (29) according to arrow F3 of FIG. 8. Then, the fixed ball (25) can be positioned in the groove (270) of the fixed ring (27) as shown in FIG. 9.

[0094] When the fixed ring (27) returns to the rear position or release position, the operation to separate the plates (A and B) is initiated by supplying the rear chamber (21B) while maintaining the fixed chamber (23A) under pressure so that the fixed ring (27) does not return to the forward position, as shown in FIG. 10.

[0095] The rear chamber (21B) is filled, and the generated pressure drives the cylinder body (15) backward relative to the shaft (17). The relative movement between the cylinder body (15) and the shaft (17) returns the protective ring (31) forward under the action of the spring (33) and positions the fixing ball (25) around the protective ring (31). The protective ring (31) regains its role of holding the fixing ball (25), which is received in the groove (270) of the fixing ring (27), in the retracted position.

[0096] The separation operation continues until the end of the stroke is reached, which is detected by a relevant means, such as a proximity sensor of the city. At this distance, the sleeve (35) is seated against the fixed barrel (70) and is seated or nearly seated on the seat (152A) of the flange (152). The robot can re-grasp the movable plate (B). The shaft (17) is in an intermediate position.

[0097] The retention of the movable plate (B) coupled with the rear chamber (21B) causes the shaft (17) to translate forward, while the sleeve (35) is maintained in a contact position with the flange (152). By this, the fixed ball (37) is released from the spread-out position (Fig. 11). The fixed ball (37) returns to its position within the circular groove of the shaft (17). The shaft (17) is in the unconnected position. Thanks to the restriction of the forward movement of the sleeve (35) by the seat (152A) against the forward force of the spring (39), the fixed ball (37) is no longer maintained in a fixed state. Then, the robot takes over the role of the connecting device (D) to move the fixed plate (A) backward and, in particular, separate the shaft (17) from the fixed barrel (70). The sequence of unconnecting and separating the plates (A and B) is performed in the reverse order of the connecting operation. Accordingly, the plate (B) is guided by the guide column (3) and the complementary socket (13) and maintains a state in which it is driven with a predetermined buoyancy by the robot.

[0098] When the robot cell moves the movable plate (B) sufficiently away from the fixed plate (A) and the socket (13) away from the guide column (3), it takes over the movable plate (B), moves it out of the area, and waits to combine with the next fixed plate (A) and further with the next transfer lathes.

[0099] A second embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 14. In this embodiment, elements common to the first embodiment have the same reference numeral and function in the same way.

[0100] In this embodiment, the fixing ring (27) exhibits inverse kinematics but provides the same fixing function. The fixing ring (27) is movable between a forward position and a rear position. In the forward position, the fixing ball (25) is received in the groove (270) of the fixing ring (27), and in the rear position, the cut conical surface (272) pushes the fixing ball (25) back into the groove of the shaft (17). The spring (29) pushes the fixing ring (27) into its rear position.

[0101] The present invention provides the following advantages:

[0102] - Axial fixation of the shaft (17) to the cylinder body (15) is achieved and maintained by mechanical elements without requiring external pressure or energy.

[0103] - The fixed ring (27) and its cut conical surface (272) allow backlash adjustment during the connection and disconnection cycle.

[0104] - A fairly simple design component, such as a fixed barrel (70) equipped with a fixed plate (A), is sufficient to achieve a secure connection to the connecting device (D).

[0105] - The protective ring (31) prevents wear of the shaft (17) that may be caused by the rolling of the fixed ball (25) and direct radial pressure on the shaft (17).

[0106] - Pneumatic solutions are more practical than electric and motorized solutions in thermal environments where the connecting device (D) is used.

[0107] - Pneumatic solutions are advantageous in flammable environments, unlike hydraulic cylinders.

[0108] - The fixation of the shaft (17) in the fixed barrel (70) is mechanical and independent of pneumatic control.

[0109] - Fixing the cylinder body (15) to the shaft (17) secures the connection assembly (E).

[0110] - The pneumatic solution combining two plates (A and B) provides a compact, inexpensive, and adaptable solution (unlike commercial motors, there are no restrictive standard parts), and offers flexibility of movement in small spaces due to the two pneumatic chambers.

[0111] - The use of the fixing ball (37, 25) prevents deformation of the plates (A and B) under disengagement / connection force. The fixing ball (37) provides high cycling ability and overcomes jamming problems.

[0112] According to an example not shown:

[0113] The pipe (22) for the discharge chamber (23A) can be fluidly connected to the rear chamber (21B). Pneumatic control of the rearward-facing cylinder body (15) by injecting air into the rear chamber (21B) simultaneously leads to the retraction of the retaining ring (27), thereby releasing the cylinder body (15) from the shaft in translational motion. Advantageously, the diameter of the pipe (22) for the discharge chamber (27) (e.g., 4 mm) is larger than the diameter of the pipe (26) for the rear chamber (21B) (e.g., 1 mm). Thus, the operation of the shaft (17) is initiated more easily by releasing the retaining ring (27) before pressurizing the rear chamber (21B). This effect is due to the reduced flow rate in the rear chamber (21B), which also promotes a damping effect on the shaft (17).

[0114] The fixed ring (27) can be controlled by a double-acting pneumatic device and therefore does not have an elastic return means such as a fixed spring (29).

[0115] The connecting device (D) may not include a protective ring (31): then, at the level of the protective ring (31), the diameter of the shaft (17) may be increased so that the fixed ball (25) in the retracted position can be held in the fixed ring (27) when the fixed ball does not protrude into the groove (170).

[0116] The fixed ball (37) can be replaced with other fixed members such as fingers, segments, or movable pins within the sleeve (35).

[0117] Likewise, the fixed ball (25) can be replaced with other fixed elements such as segments, pins, etc.

[0118] The concave portion (350) of the fixed ball (37) can be tilted at different angles (a1).

[0119] The sleeve (35) can be made of two joined parts.

[0120] The spring (39) of the sleeve (35) can be mounted around the shaft (17) at the rear of the sleeve (35) rather than inside the sleeve (35).

[0121] The fixed ring (27) can be replaced with a cylindrical surface without including a cut conical surface (272).

[0122] The connecting device (D) is shown mounted on the movable plate (B). Alternatively, the fixed plate (A) can carry the connecting device (D), and the movable plate (B) can carry the fixed barrel (70).

[0123] Instead of pneumatic operation, the connecting device (D) may adopt hydraulic operation if it is equipped with a suitable seal.

[0124] The present invention can be more generally applied to the field of connecting multi-connection boards, particularly to the end access for connection.

Claims

Claim 1 A connecting device (D) between two plates, wherein one of the two plates is a fixed plate (A) and the other plate is a movable plate (B), and each of the two plates supports at least one circuit connecting element (5, 11) configured to be paired with a circuit connecting element (5, 11) of the same type on the other plate, and the circuit connecting elements provided on each of the two plates are paired and joined together so that at least one of a pneumatic circuit, a hydraulic circuit, and an electrical circuit is established between the two plates, and the connecting device is disposed on one of the two plates, and the connecting device comprises: a cylinder body (15) extending along a central axis (X15) and including a main cavity (21); and a shaft (17) capable of translational movement within the cylinder body (15) along the central axis (X15) of the cylinder body; and a piston (19) integral with the shaft (17), movable within the main cavity of the cylinder body, and dividing the main cavity between the front chamber (21A) and the rear chamber (21B); the connecting device further comprises: a sleeve (35) extending around the shaft (17) ― the sleeve is movable along the central axis (X15) relative to the cylinder body (15) between a rear position and a front position ―; and fixed members received in the sleeve (35) ― each of the fixed members is movable relative to the sleeve between a fixed state and an released state, wherein in the fixed state each fixed member is spaced apart from the central axis (X15), and in the released state each fixed member (37) is closer to the central axis (X15) than in the fixed state ―;A connection device (D) further comprising, wherein the shaft (17) is movable along the central axis (X15) between a disconnection position and a connection position, and through an intermediate position between the disconnection position and the connection position, wherein at the disconnection position, the shaft (17) does not prevent the movement of the fixed member in the released state and the sleeve (35) is in the forward position, at the connection position, the shaft (17) prevents the movement of the fixed member in the released state and the sleeve (35) is in the rear position, and at the intermediate position, the shaft (17) prevents the fixed member from moving to the released state and the sleeve (35) is in the forward position. Claim 2 In claim 1, the connecting device (D) comprises means (39) for elastically returning the sleeve (35) to the forward position. Claim 3 A connecting device (D), wherein the cylinder body (15) has a mechanical stop (152A) that limits the forward displacement of the sleeve (35) at the forward position of the shaft (17). Claim 4 A connection device (D) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fixing member is a fixing ball (37), and the sleeve (35) includes a radial recess (350) capable of guiding the fixing ball (37) between a fixed state and a released state. Claim 5 A connecting device (D), wherein the shaft (17) includes a guide lamp (176A) for guiding the fixed member between a released state and a fixed state. Claim 6 In claim 5, the guide lamp (176A) provides a distant bearing diameter (D1) configured to have the fixed member in a fixed state, and the shaft (17) has a groove (176), the groove (176) is juxtaposed at the rear of the guide lamp (176A) and provides an adjacent bearing diameter (D2) that allows movement of the fixed member to the released state, the connecting device (D). Claim 7 In claim 1 or 2, the connecting device (D) comprises a fixing means (25, 27, 170) for fixing the shaft (17) within the cylinder body (15) along the central axis (X15) of the shaft (17) at the connecting position. Claim 8 In claim 7, the fixing means comprises at least one fixing ball (25) radially movable within a recess (156A) of the cylinder body (15) between a protruding position and a recessed position, wherein in the protruding position the fixing ball (25) can penetrate a groove (170) of the shaft (17) and prevent axial displacement of the shaft (17) relative to the cylinder body (15), and in the recessed position the fixing ball (25) does not penetrate the groove (170) of the shaft (17), a connecting device (D). Claim 9 In claim 8, the fixing means further comprises a fixing ring (27) movable within an auxiliary cavity (23) of the cylinder body (15) along the central axis (X15) between a fixed position and a released position, wherein at the fixed position, the cut conical surface (272) of the fixing ring (27) holds a fixing ball (25) protruding into a groove (170) of the shaft (17), and at the released position, the fixing ball (25) is in its retracted position and is received in the groove (270) of the fixing ring (27), a connecting device (D). Claim 10 In claim 9, the cutting conical surface (272) of the fixing ring (27) forms a taper that flares toward the groove (270) of the fixing ring, a connecting device (D). Claim 11 In claim 9, the connection device (D) comprises an elastic member (29) for pushing the fixed ring (27) toward a fixed position. Claim 12 In claim 8, the connection device comprises a protective ring (31) surrounding the shaft (17), wherein the protective ring (31) is movable along the central axis (X15) within an internal channel (156B) in which the shaft (17) moves and is driven between a protected position and a retracted position by the shaft (17) while the shaft (17) moves from the intermediate position to the connection position, wherein at the protected position the protective ring (31) maintains the fixed ball (25) in a retracted position toward the recess (156A) of the cylinder body (15), and at the retracted position the protective ring (31) no longer maintains the fixed ball (25) in a retracted position, the connection device (D). Claim 13 In claim 9, the fixing ring (27) and the auxiliary cavity (23) of the cylinder body (15) form a chamber (23A) connected to a pipe (22), and the pipe is a connecting device (D) that allows fluid to be supplied to the chamber (23A) under pressure. Claim 14 In claim 1 or 2, the connecting device comprises a first pipe (24) connected to the front chamber (21A) and a second pipe (26) connected to the rear chamber (21B), wherein the first pipe and the second pipe supply fluid to the front chamber and the rear chamber, respectively, under pressure, the connecting device (D). Claim 15 A connection assembly (E) for connecting a movable plate (B) to a fixed plate (A), comprising: a movable plate (B) supporting at least a first circuit connection element (11); a fixed plate (A) supporting at least one connection element (5) complementary to the first circuit connection element (11) of the movable plate (B); and at least one centering member (3, 13) configured to position the movable plate (B) and the fixed plate (A) relative to each other; wherein one of the plates (A, B) comprises a connection device (D) according to either claim 1 or claim 2, and the other of the plates (A, B) comprises a fixed barrel (70) forming a mouth (S70), wherein the mouth (S70) is capable of axially maintaining the fixed member of the connection device (D) to the fixed barrel (70) when the fixed member is in a fixed state.

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