Sludge collector having roller-type chain assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a chain assembly, wherein each chain unit comprises: a chain part that defines a pinhole at each end; and a roller unit provided on the chain part and having at least a portion protruding outwardly from at least one of an upper surface and a lower surface of the chain part. According to the present invention, the chain unit included in the chain assembly further includes a roller unit and an auxiliary roller, and the roller unit and the auxiliary roller can prevent friction between the chain part of the chain unit and a driven sprocket. The roller unit and the auxiliary roller can prevent the chain part from being worn and damaged, and can increase the product lifespan and service life of the chain part. In addition, this can reduce the maintenance cost of the chain assembly and the sludge collector.

Description

Sludge collector with roller chain assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a sludge collector, and more particularly, to a sludge collector including a chain assembly having a roller portion.

[0002] Sludge is a general term for sediment generated during sewage treatment, water purification, and other processes. If the accumulated sludge is not removed from the equipment, it can cause equipment failure. Therefore, periodic and irregular sludge removal is necessary. Furthermore, removing sludge from treated water improves its quality and allows for its reuse.

[0003] To remove sludge, sludge treatment facilities are installed in sewage treatment facilities, water purification facilities, etc., and sludge treatment facilities typically include multiple flights, multiple sprockets, and chain assemblies. Multiple flights are mounted at predetermined intervals on a chain assembly that rotates in an endless track to collect and remove sludge accumulated on the floor.

[0004] At this time, the chain assembly is rotated by meshing with multiple sprockets. One of the multiple sprockets is connected to a driving unit such as a motor through a gear structure, and receives driving force to rotate the chain assembly.

[0005] In conventional sludge collectors, friction can occur continuously between the chain assembly and the driven sprocket whenever the direction of movement of the chain assembly is changed by the driven sprocket. This friction between the chain assembly and the driven sprocket can cause wear on the chain assembly. This requires frequent replacement of the sludge collector chain assembly, increasing equipment replacement costs and, consequently, the maintenance costs of the sludge collector.

[0006] The present invention has been devised to solve the problems in the related technical field as described above, and the purpose of the present invention is to provide a sludge collector that can increase durability against wear and tear and extend the product life and service life by reducing friction between the chain assembly and the sprocket by further including a roller portion in the chain assembly.

[0007] The present invention, in order to achieve the above-described purposes, relates to a chain assembly comprising a plurality of chain units connected to each other, wherein each chain unit may include: a chain portion defining pinholes at both ends; and a roller portion provided on the chain portion, at least a portion of which protrudes outward from at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the chain portion.

[0008] In one embodiment, the roller portion may include a first roller portion at least partially protruding outward from an upper surface of the chain portion; and a second roller portion spaced apart from the first roller portion and at least partially protruding outward from a lower surface of the chain portion facing the upper surface.

[0009] In one embodiment, the axles of each of the first roller portion and the second roller portion may be disposed inside the chain portion.

[0010] In one embodiment, both ends of the shafts of each of the first roller portion and the second roller portion can be connected to the inside of the chain portion.

[0011] In one embodiment, the chain portion further includes a chain body portion defining the pinhole; and a wing portion protruding outward from one of the upper and lower surfaces of the chain body portion; wherein the upper and lower surfaces of the chain portion may include the upper and lower surfaces of the wing portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the axles of each of the first roller portion and the second roller portion may be disposed inside the wing portion.

[0013] In one embodiment, the axles of each of the first roller portion and the second roller portion may be disposed outside the chain portion.

[0014] In one embodiment, one end of the shaft of each of the first roller portion and the second roller portion may be connected to the outer surface of the chain portion.

[0015] In one embodiment, the chain portion further defines a roller groove corresponding to the shape of a portion of the roller portion, the roller portion is disposed within the roller groove, and at least a portion of the roller portion can protrude outwardly from the roller groove.

[0016] In one embodiment, the roller portion may have the shape of one of a roller and a sphere.

[0017] In one embodiment, the chain assembly may further include an auxiliary roller provided on the chain portion, at least a portion of which protrudes outwardly from at least one side surface of the chain portion.

[0018] In one embodiment, the axis of the auxiliary roller may be positioned inside the chain portion.

[0019] In one embodiment, the rotational axis direction of the roller portion and the rotational axis direction of the auxiliary roller may intersect each other.

[0020] The present invention, in order to achieve the above-described purposes, relates to a sludge collector, which may include a plurality of sprockets; and a chain assembly that is engaged with the plurality of sprockets and moves in an orbit.

[0021] In one embodiment, the plurality of sprockets may include a drive sprocket having teeth that engage with the chain assembly; and a driven sprocket that changes the direction of movement of the chain unit at another point of the chain assembly and has a curved outer surface shape.

[0022] In one embodiment, when the driven sprocket changes the direction of movement of the chain unit, the roller portion may come into contact with the outer surface of the driven sprocket.

[0023] In one embodiment, when the roller portion comes into contact with the outer surface of the driven sprocket, the chain portion may be spaced apart from the outer surface of the driven sprocket.

[0024] In one embodiment, the sludge collector may further include an auxiliary roller provided on the chain portion, at least a portion of which protrudes outward from at least one side surface of the chain portion.

[0025] In one embodiment, the driven sprocket includes a guide line protruding from an outer surface of the driven sprocket, and when the driven sprocket changes the direction of movement of the chain unit, the auxiliary roller can contact the guide line.

[0026] In one embodiment, when the auxiliary roller comes into contact with the guide line, the chain portion may be spaced apart from the guide line.

[0027] According to the present invention, a chain unit included in a chain assembly further includes a roller portion and an auxiliary roller, wherein the roller portion and the auxiliary roller can prevent friction between the chain portion and the driven sprocket of the chain unit. The roller portion and the auxiliary roller can prevent wear and damage to the chain portion, and can increase the product life and service life of the chain portion. In addition, this can reduce the maintenance costs of the chain assembly and the sludge collector.

[0028] The effects that can be obtained through the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below.

[0029] Figure 1 is a perspective drawing schematically illustrating the basic configuration of a sludge collector.

[0030] Figure 2 is a side view showing a part of a conventional sludge collector.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a side view showing a first embodiment of a sludge collector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a sludge collector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 5 is a front view showing a first embodiment of a sludge collector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing another embodiment of a driven sprocket included in a sludge collector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a fourth embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a fifth embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a sixth embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided solely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined solely by the scope of the claims.

[0042] The shapes, sizes, ratios, angles, numbers, etc. disclosed in the drawings for explaining embodiments of the present invention are illustrative and are not limited to the matters illustrated in the drawings. Like reference numerals refer to like components throughout the specification. In addition, in describing the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known technology is judged to unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. When the terms “includes,” “has,” and “consists of” are used in this specification, other parts may be added unless “only” is used. When a component is expressed in the singular, it includes a case where the plural is included unless there is a specifically explicit description.

[0043] When interpreting a component, it is interpreted as including the error range even if there is no separate explicit description.

[0044] When describing a positional relationship, for example, when the positional relationship between two parts is described as 'on top of', 'upper part of', 'lower part of', 'next to', etc., one or more other parts may be located between the two parts, unless 'right away' or 'directly' is used.

[0045] Although terms like "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. Therefore, a "first" component referred to below may also be a "second" component within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0046] Identical reference numerals throughout the specification refer to identical components.

[0047] The size and thickness of each component shown in the drawing are shown for convenience of explanation, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to the size and thickness of the component shown.

[0048] The individual features of the various embodiments of the present invention can be partially or wholly combined or combined with each other, and as can be fully understood by those skilled in the art, various technical connections and operations are possible, and each embodiment can be implemented independently of each other or can be implemented together in a related relationship.

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The multiple embodiments described below may be applied in duplicate as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective drawing schematically illustrating the basic configuration of a sludge collector.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 1, the sludge collector (100) may include a chain assembly (200), a plurality of sprockets (300), and flights (400).

[0052] The chain assembly (200) may include a plurality of chain units (e.g., chain units (201) of FIG. 3) that are connected to each other. The chain assembly (200) may form an endless track by connecting the plurality of chain units to each other by solid pins (e.g., solid pins (220) of FIG. 3).

[0053] A plurality of sprockets (300) may be arranged inside the equipment (S) and may support the rotation of the chain assembly (200). That is, the chain assembly (200) may be engaged with the plurality of sprockets (300) and may orbitally move. The plurality of sprockets (300) may include a driving sprocket (302) and at least one driven sprocket (304, 306, 308).

[0054] The drive sprocket (302) can be connected to a drive unit (500) disposed outside the equipment (S) by a drive chain (510). The drive sprocket (302) can receive power from the drive unit (500) through the drive chain (510). The drive sprocket (302) that has received the power can rotate around the drive shaft. The drive sprocket (302) can have a toothed portion that engages with the chain assembly (200) to rotate the chain assembly (200). The toothed portion can engage with the chain assembly (200) at one point and transmit power to the chain assembly (200).

[0055] The driven sprockets (304, 306, 308) can change the direction of movement of the chain unit at other points of the chain assembly (200). The driven sprockets (304, 306, 308) can have a curved outer surface shape. That is, the driven sprockets (304, 306, 308) can have a shape without teeth on the outer surface. In addition, the driven sprockets (304, 306, 308) can include a guide line (for example, a guide line (304b) of FIG. 4 or a guide line (304d) of FIG. 7) protruding from the outer surface of the driven sprockets (304, 306, 308). The chain assembly (200) does not come off from the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304, 306, 308) by the above guide line, and can slide stably along the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304, 306, 308). That is, the chain assembly (200) can slide along the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304, 306, 308) and come into contact with the driven sprocket (304, 306, 308).

[0056] A plurality of flights (400) can be connected to a chain assembly (200) in the form of an endless track at a predetermined interval and arranged. The flights (400) can collect and remove sludge accumulated on the floor of a facility (S) such as a sewage treatment facility or a water purification facility.

[0057] Figure 2 is a side view showing a part of a conventional sludge collector.

[0058] Referring to Fig. 2, the driven sprocket (30) may come into contact with the chain unit (21) of the chain assembly (20) of the conventional sludge collector. The outer circumference of the driven sprocket (30) may not have teeth. Therefore, when the chain assembly (20) moves along the driven sprocket (30), the chain unit (21) may come into contact with the outer circumference of the driven sprocket (30) (C1, C2, C3). At this time, the frictional force between the chain unit (21) and the outer circumference of the driven sprocket (30) may cause the chain unit (21) to wear out. When the chain unit (21) wears out, the worn chain unit (21) must be replaced frequently, which may cause an increase in the equipment replacement cost of the sludge collector (10).

[0059] Fig. 3 is a side view showing a first embodiment of a sludge collector according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a sludge collector according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 is a front view showing a first embodiment of a sludge collector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the chain assembly (200) may include a plurality of chain units (201). Each chain unit (201) may include a chain portion (210), a roller portion (230), and an auxiliary roller (240).

[0061] The chain portion (210) can form the body of the chain unit (201). The chain portion (210) can define pin holes (216) at each end. The chain portion (210) can be connected to another chain portion (210) by a solid pin (220) inserted into the pin hole (216).

[0062] The chain portion (210) may include a first side portion (210') and a second side portion (210''). The first side portion (210') may be a portion located on the left side of the chain portion (210), and the second side portion (210'') may be a portion located on the right side of the chain portion (210). The first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210'') may be connected to each other. For example, the first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210'') may be coupled to each other. For another example, the first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210'') may be formed integrally.

[0063] The roller part (230) may be provided on the chain part (210), and at least a portion of at least one of the upper and lower surfaces (210a, 210b) of the chain part (210) may protrude outward. At this time, at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the roller part (230) may protrude outward than at least one of the upper and lower surfaces (210a, 210b) of the chain part (210). The roller part (230) may be provided on the upper or lower side of the chain part (210). However, preferably, the roller part (230) may be provided on each of the upper and lower sides of the chain part (210). Accordingly, the roller part (230) may include a first roller part (230a) provided on the upper side of the chain part (210) and a second roller part (230b) provided on the lower side of the chain part (210).

[0064] The first roller portion (230a) may protrude outward at least partially from the upper surface (210a) of the chain portion (210). The second roller portion (230b) may be spaced apart from the first roller portion (230a) and may protrude outward at least partially from the lower surface (210b) of the chain portion (210).

[0065] The roller unit (230) may have a roller shape. Accordingly, the roller unit (230) may rotate in one direction. At this time, the one direction may be the direction in which the chain unit (201) moves. For example, the roller unit (230) may have a flat roller shape in which the central portion and the two ends have the same height. As another example, the roller unit (230) may have a convex roller shape in which the central portion has a higher height than the two ends. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the roller unit (230) may have a spherical shape.

[0066] The auxiliary roller (240) may be provided on the chain portion (210) similarly to the roller portion (230). The auxiliary roller (240) may protrude at least a portion outwardly from at least one side surface (210c) of the chain portion (210). At this time, at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the auxiliary roller (240) may protrude outwardly from at least one side surface (210c) of the chain portion (210). The auxiliary roller (240) may be provided on each of the two sides (210c) of the chain portion (210). Accordingly, the auxiliary roller (240) may include a first auxiliary roller provided on the left side surface (210c) of the chain portion (210) and a second auxiliary roller provided on the right side of the chain portion (210).

[0067] The first auxiliary roller may protrude outward at least partially from the left side (210c) of the chain portion (210). The second auxiliary roller may protrude outward at least partially from the right side of the chain portion (210).

[0068] The auxiliary roller (240) may have a roller shape. For example, the auxiliary roller (240) may have a flat roller shape with the same height at the center and both ends. As another example, the auxiliary roller (240) may have a convex roller shape with the center height being higher than the heights at both ends. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the auxiliary roller (240) may have a shape including one or more spheres.

[0069] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Referring further to FIG. 6, the chain portion (210) may include a chain body portion (212) and a wing portion (214).

[0071] The chain body (212) can form the body of the chain unit (201). The chain body (212) can define pin holes (216) at each end. The chain body (212) can be connected to another chain body (212) by a solid pin (220) inserted into the pin hole (216). The solid pin (220) can be fastened to the pin hole (216) by a fixed pin.

[0072] The wing portion (214) may be arranged on the chain body portion (212) and may protrude outwardly from the chain body portion (212). The wing portion (214) may protrude outwardly from one of the upper and lower surfaces of the chain body portion (212). Preferably, the wing portions (214) may be formed on the upper and lower surfaces of the chain body portion (212), respectively. That is, the wing portions (214) may be arranged in pairs on the upper and lower surfaces with respect to the central portion of the chain body portion (212).

[0073] At this time, the wing portion (214) may be provided on each of the first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210''), and the wing portion (214) of the first side portion (210') and the wing portion of the second side portion (210'') may be spaced apart from each other.

[0074] A pair of wing parts (214) may be symmetrical with respect to the central portion of the chain body part (212). Since the wing parts (214) are arranged as a pair at the upper and lower portions, when one wing part (214) is worn or damaged, the chain assembly (200) can be turned over and the wing part (214) on the other side can be used. Accordingly, the product life and service life of the chain assembly (200) can be increased. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the wing parts (214) may be formed on only one of the upper or lower portions of the chain body part (212).

[0075] A sliding portion (214a) corresponding to the upper and lower surfaces (214a) of the wing portion (214) may be formed on the outer end surface of the wing portion (214). The sliding portion (214a) may have a shape corresponding to the outer peripheral surface shape of the driven sprocket (304, 306, 308). That is, when the chain assembly (200) moves while contacting the driven sprocket (304, 306, 308), the sliding portion (214a) may contact the outer peripheral surface of the driven sprocket (304, 306, 308). The sliding portion (214a) may have a flat shape or a curved shape, but preferably, the sliding portion (214a) may have a curved shape.

[0076] Side portions (214b) corresponding to the side surfaces (214b) of the wing portion (214) may be formed at both ends of the wing portion (214). The side portions (214b) may be formed as a pair at both ends of the wing portion (214) and may be arranged on both sides of the sliding portion (214a). The side portions (214b) may have a flat shape or a curved shape, but preferably, the side portions (214b) may have a curved shape.

[0077] Since the wing portion (214) is a portion protruding from the upper and lower surfaces of the chain body portion (212), the upper and lower surfaces (210a, 210b) of the chain portion (210) may include the upper and lower surfaces (214a) of the wing portion (214). The upper and lower surfaces (210a, 210b) of the chain portion (210) may include the upper and lower surfaces (214a) of the wing portion (214), that is, the sliding portion (214a) of the wing portion (214), and the side surface (214b) of the wing portion (214), that is, the side surface (214b) of the wing portion (214). At this time, the roller portion (230) may protrude outward at least partly from the upper and lower surfaces (210a, 210b) of the chain portion (210) more than the upper and lower surfaces (214a) of the wing portion (214).

[0078] The first roller part (230a) and the second roller part (230b) may be disposed between the first side part (210') and the second side part (210''). The shaft (230c) of the roller part (230) may be disposed inside the chain part (210). Hereinafter, "disposed inside" includes not only the meaning of being inside a closed space but also the meaning of being inside a specific configuration. That is, the shaft (230c) of each of the first roller part (230a) and the second roller part (230b) may be disposed inside the chain part (210). In other words, the shaft (230c) of each of the first roller part (230a) and the second roller part (230b) may be disposed between the first side part (210') and the second side part (210'').

[0079] The two ends of the shafts (203c) of the first roller portion (230a) and the second roller portion (230b) can be connected to the inside of the chain portion (210). That is, the two ends of the shafts (230c) of the first roller portion (230a) and the second roller portion (230b) can be connected to the side surfaces of the first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210'') facing each other. Accordingly, the chain portion (210) can include one or more first roller portions (230a) and one or more second roller portions (230b). Preferably, the chain portion (210) can include two first roller portions (230a) and two second roller portions (230b).

[0080] Specifically, the shaft (230c) of the roller portion (230) including the first roller portion (230a) and the second roller portion (230b) may be disposed inside the wing portion (214) of the chain portion (210). The shaft (230c) of the roller portion (230) may be disposed between the wing portion (214) of the first side portion (210') and the wing portion (214) of the second side portion (210''). Both ends of the shaft (230c) of the roller portion (230) may be connected to the inside of the wing portion (214).

[0081] The shaft of the auxiliary roller (240) may be placed inside the chain portion (210). That is, the shafts of each of the first auxiliary roller and the second auxiliary roller may be placed inside the chain portion (210). The shaft of the first auxiliary roller may be placed inside the first side portion (210'), and the shaft of the second auxiliary roller may be placed inside the second side portion (210'').

[0082] In one embodiment, the direction of the rotation axis of the auxiliary roller (240) may intersect with the direction of the rotation axis of the roller unit (230). In addition, the axial direction of the auxiliary roller (240) and the direction of the axis (230c) of the roller unit (230) may intersect with each other. Since the rotation direction of the roller unit (230) and the rotation direction of the auxiliary roller (240) are different from each other, the direction of the rotation axis of the roller unit (230) and the direction of the rotation axis of the auxiliary roller (240) may also be different from each other and may intersect with each other. For example, the direction of the rotation axis of the auxiliary roller (240) and the direction of the rotation axis of the roller unit (230) may be orthogonal to each other.

[0083] Referring again to FIGS. 2 to 5, the chain assembly (200) is supported by a drive sprocket (302) and driven sprockets (304, 306, 308) and can orbit. The drive sprocket (302) rotates in engagement with the chain assembly (200) and can transmit power to the chain assembly (200). The driven sprockets (304, 306, 308) support the chain assembly (200) and can change the direction of movement of the chain unit (201).

[0084] In one embodiment of the driven sprocket (304) of the present invention, the sprocket body (304a) may include a sprocket body (304a) and a guide line (304b). The sprocket body (304a) may have a cylindrical shape, and a sprocket hole may be formed in the center of the sprocket body (304a). In addition, a sprocket shaft (e.g., a sprocket shaft (304c) of FIG. 7) may be inserted and arranged in the sprocket hole.

[0085] The guide line (304b) may be in the form of a protruding line and may be arranged circumferentially at the center of the outer surface of the sprocket body (304a). Here, the guide line (304b) is arranged between two chain units (201) facing each other and may have the function of preventing the two chain units (201) from being separated from the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304).

[0086] When the driven sprocket (304) changes the direction of movement of the chain unit (201), the roller portion (230) can come into contact with the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304). That is, the roller portion (230) can rotate on the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304) and pass over the driven sprocket (304). Specifically, the roller portion (230) can come into contact with the outer surface of the sprocket body (304a) of the driven sprocket (304).

[0087] In the prior art, since the chain unit (201) did not include a roller portion (230), the chain portion (210) of the chain unit (201) came into contact with the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304). However, since the chain unit (201) of the sludge collector (10) according to the present invention further includes a roller portion (230) in which at least a portion of at least one of the upper and lower surfaces (210a, 210b) of the chain portion (210) protrudes outward, the roller portion (230) instead of the chain portion (210) can come into contact with the driven sprocket (304).

[0088] When the roller portion (230) comes into contact with the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304), the chain portion (210) can be spaced apart from the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304). That is, since the roller portion (230) protrudes more than the chain portion (210) and comes into contact with the driven sprocket (304), the chain portion (210) can avoid coming into contact with the driven sprocket (304) due to the roller portion (230).

[0089] In addition, when the driven sprocket (304) changes the direction of movement of the chain unit (201), the auxiliary roller (240) can come into contact with the guide line (304b). That is, the auxiliary roller (240) can come into contact with the side surface of the guide line (304b) of the driven sprocket (304). Since the chain unit (201) of the present invention further includes an auxiliary roller (240) in which at least a portion thereof protrudes outward from at least one side surface (210c) of the chain portion (210), the auxiliary roller (240) instead of the chain portion (210) can come into contact with the driven sprocket (304).

[0090] In one embodiment, the guide line (304b) is arranged between two chain units (201) facing each other, so that two auxiliary rollers (240) included in each of the two chain units (201) and facing each other can come into contact with the guide line (304b). That is, among the auxiliary rollers (240) provided on both sides of the chain unit (201), the auxiliary roller (240) facing the other chain unit (201) can come into contact with the side of the guide line (304b).

[0091] When the auxiliary roller (240) comes into contact with the guide line (304b), the chain portion (210) can be spaced apart from the guide line (304b). That is, since the auxiliary roller (240) protrudes further than the chain portion (210) and comes into contact with the guide line (304b), the chain portion (210) may not come into contact with the guide line (304b) due to the auxiliary roller (240). Therefore, the auxiliary roller (240) can prevent friction between the chain portion (210) and the driven sprocket (304).

[0092] Accordingly, since the chain unit (201) of the sludge collector (10) according to the present invention further includes a roller portion (230) and an auxiliary roller (240), the roller portion (230) and the auxiliary roller (240) can prevent friction between the chain portion (210) and the driven sprocket (304). The roller portion (230) and the auxiliary roller (240) can prevent the chain portion (210) from being worn or damaged, and can increase the product life and service life of the chain portion (210).

[0093] In addition, since the chain unit (201) of the sludge collector (10) according to the present invention further includes a roller portion (230), the sludge collector (10) may include a fixed structure capable of supporting the chain assembly (200) instead of the driven sprocket (304). At this time, the fixed structure may have a shape other than the shape of the sprocket, and may be a structure that does not rotate and is fixed.

[0094] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing another embodiment of a driven sprocket included in a sludge collector according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 7, another embodiment of the driven sprocket (304') of the present invention may include guide lines (304d) arranged on both sides of the outer circumference instead of the above-described guide lines (304b). The guide lines (304d) may have a protruding hook shape and may be arranged circumferentially on both sides of the outer circumference of the sprocket body (304a).

[0096] In this case, two chain units (201) arranged facing each other can be arranged on the inner side of the pair of guide lines (304d). Accordingly, both sides of the chain assembly (200) are fixed by the pair of guide lines (304d) that function as catches, thereby preventing the two chain units (201) from being separated from the outer surface of the driven sprocket (304').

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, when the driven sprocket (304') of the present invention changes the direction of movement of the chain unit (201), the auxiliary roller (240) can each come into contact with a pair of guide lines (304d). That is, the auxiliary roller (240) can each come into contact with the side surfaces of the pair of guide lines (304d) of the driven sprocket (304'). Since the chain unit (201) of the present invention further includes an auxiliary roller (240) at least a portion of which protrudes outward from at least one side surface (210c) of the chain portion (210), the auxiliary roller (240) instead of the chain portion (210) can come into contact with the driven sprocket (304').

[0098] In one embodiment, two chain units (201) arranged to face each other are arranged on the inner side of the pair of guide lines (304d), so that one guide line (304d) can come into contact with an outwardly facing auxiliary roller (240) among the two auxiliary rollers (240) included in the chain unit (201). That is, among the auxiliary rollers (240) provided on both sides of the chain unit (201), an auxiliary roller (240) that does not face the other chain unit (201) can come into contact with the side of the guide line (304d).

[0099] When the auxiliary roller (240) comes into contact with the guide line (304d), the chain portion (210) can be spaced apart from the guide line (304d). That is, since the auxiliary roller (240) protrudes further than the chain portion (210) and comes into contact with the guide line (304d), the chain portion (210) may not come into contact with the guide line (304d) due to the auxiliary roller (240). Therefore, the auxiliary roller (240) can prevent friction between the chain portion (210) and the driven sprocket (304').

[0100] Accordingly, the roller unit (230) and the auxiliary roller (240) can prevent friction between the chain unit (210) and the driven sprocket (304'). The roller unit (230) and the auxiliary roller (240) can prevent the chain unit (210) from being worn or damaged, and can increase the product life and service life of the chain unit (210).

[0101] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 8, the second embodiment of the chain unit (202) in the present invention may include a roller portion (230) and an auxiliary roller (240) without an axis instead of the roller portion (230) and an auxiliary roller (240) with an axis (230c) in the first embodiment described above.

[0103] The chain unit (202) may include a chain portion (210), a roller portion (230), and an auxiliary roller (240).

[0104] The chain portion (210) may form the body of the chain unit (202). The chain portion (210) may define pinholes (216) at each end. The chain portion (210) may include a first side portion (210') and a second side portion (210''). The first side portion (210') may be a portion located on the left side of the chain portion (210), and the second side portion (210'') may be a portion located on the right side of the chain portion (210).

[0105] The chain portion (210) may further define a roller groove (230') corresponding to a shape of a portion of the roller portion (230). The roller groove (230') may include a groove defined on the first side (210') and a groove defined on the second side (210''). The groove defined on the first side (210') and the groove defined on the second side (210'') may be formed to face each other.

[0106] At this time, the roller part (230) may have a roller shape. For example, the roller part (230) may have a flat roller shape with the same height at the center and at both ends. Accordingly, the roller groove (230') corresponding thereto may also have a partially cylindrical shape. For another example, the roller part (230) may have a convex roller shape with a height at the center that is higher than that at both ends. Accordingly, the roller groove (230') corresponding thereto may also have a partially cylindrical shape with a deeper depth at the center.

[0107] The roller part (230) can be arranged inside the roller groove (230') and rotate. At least a part of the roller part (230) can protrude outward from the roller groove (230'). The area of ​​the roller groove (230') corresponding to the upper surface (210a) of the chain part (210) can be smaller than the cross-sectional area passing through the center of the roller part (230). At this time, the cross-sectional area of ​​the roller part (230) can be an area cut in the same direction as the upper surface (210a) of the chain part (210). Therefore, even if there is no axis of the roller part (230), the roller part (230) can be arranged inside the roller groove (230') and thus be bound to the chain part (210) and not be separated from the chain part (210).

[0108] Additionally, the chain portion (210) can further define an auxiliary roller groove (240') corresponding to the shape of a portion of the auxiliary roller (240). The auxiliary roller groove (240') can be defined on each of the first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210'').

[0109] At this time, the auxiliary roller (240) may have a roller shape. For example, the auxiliary roller (240) may have a flat roller shape with the same height at the center and both ends. Accordingly, the auxiliary roller groove (240') corresponding thereto may also have a cylindrical shape. For another example, the auxiliary roller (240) may have a convex roller shape with a height at the center that is higher than that at the ends. Accordingly, the auxiliary roller groove (240') corresponding thereto may also have a cylindrical shape with a deeper depth at the center.

[0110] The auxiliary roller (240) can rotate by being arranged inside the auxiliary roller groove (240'). At least a part of the auxiliary roller (240) can protrude outward from the auxiliary roller groove (240'). The area of ​​the auxiliary roller groove (240') corresponding to the side surface (210c) of the chain portion (210) can be smaller than the cross-sectional area passing through the center of the auxiliary roller (240). At this time, the cross-sectional area of ​​the auxiliary roller (240) can be an area cut in the same direction as the side surface of the chain body portion (212). Therefore, even if there is no axis of the auxiliary roller (240), the auxiliary roller (240) can be arranged inside the auxiliary roller groove (240') so as to be bound to the chain portion (210) and not be separated.

[0111] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 9, the third embodiment of the chain unit (203) in the present invention may include a roller portion (230) having a spherical shape instead of the roller portion (230) having a roller shape in the second embodiment described above.

[0113] In one embodiment, the chain portion (210) may further define a roller groove (230') corresponding to the shape of a portion of the roller portion (230). The roller groove (230') may include a groove defined on the first side (210') and a groove defined on the second side (210'').

[0114] In one embodiment, the roller portion (230) may have a spherical shape. Accordingly, the corresponding roller groove (230') may also have a shape of a portion of a sphere. The roller portion (230) may be disposed inside the roller groove (230'). At least a portion of the roller portion (230) may protrude outward from the roller groove (230'). The area of ​​the roller groove (230') may be smaller than the cross-sectional area passing through the center of the roller portion (230). Therefore, the roller portion (230) may be disposed inside the roller groove (230') so as to be bound to the chain portion (210) and not be separated.

[0115] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a fourth embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 10, the fourth embodiment of the chain unit (204) in the present invention may include a chain portion (210) having a shape different from that of the chain portion (210) of the second embodiment described above.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 10, the chain unit (204) may include a chain portion (210) and a roller portion (230).

[0118] The chain portion (210) may form the body of the chain unit (201) and may include a first side portion (210') and a second side portion (210''). The chain portion (210) may include a chain body portion (212) and a wing portion (214), and the first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210'') may be coupled to each other via the wing portion (214).

[0119] The roller part (230) may be provided on the chain part (210), and at least a portion thereof may protrude outwardly from at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the chain part (210). At this time, at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the roller part (230) may protrude outwardly from at least one of the upper and lower surfaces (210a, 210b) of the chain part (210). The roller part (230) may be provided on the upper or lower side of the chain part (210). However, preferably, the roller part (230) may be provided on each of the upper and lower sides of the chain part (210). Accordingly, the roller part (230) may include a first roller part (230a) provided on the upper side of the chain part (210) and a second roller part (230b) provided on the lower side of the chain part (210).

[0120] The chain portion (210) can further define a roller groove (230'') corresponding to the shape of a portion of the roller portion (230). The roller groove (230'') can be formed in the wing portion (214) of the chain portion (120). The roller portion (230) can be positioned inside the roller groove (230'') and rotate.

[0121] In one embodiment, the roller portion (230) may have a roller shape. For example, the roller portion (230) may have a flat roller shape with the same height at the center and at both ends. Accordingly, the corresponding roller groove (230'') may also have a cylindrical shape. For another example, the roller portion (230) may have a convex roller shape with a height at the center that is higher than that at both ends. Accordingly, the corresponding roller groove (230'') may also have a cylindrical shape with a deeper depth at the center.

[0122] In one embodiment, the roller portion (230) may have an axis. The axis of the roller portion (230) may be arranged inside the chain portion (210). That is, both ends of the axis of the roller portion (230) may be connected to the inside of the chain portion (210). Specifically, the axis of the roller portion (230) may be arranged inside the wing portion (214).

[0123] In another embodiment, the roller portion (230) may not have an axis. In this case, the area of ​​the roller groove (230'') may be smaller than the cross-sectional area passing through the center of the roller portion (230). Therefore, even if the roller portion (230) does not have an axis, the roller portion (230) may be bound to the chain portion (210) by the roller groove (230'') and may not be separated from the chain portion (210).

[0124] Although the auxiliary roller is not shown in FIG. 10, the fourth embodiment of the chain unit (204) may also include an auxiliary roller.

[0125] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a fifth embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 11, the fifth embodiment of the chain unit (205) in the present invention may include a roller portion (230) having a spherical shape instead of the roller portion (230) having a roller shape in the fourth embodiment described above.

[0127] The chain portion (210) may further define a roller groove (230'') corresponding to the shape of a portion of the roller portion (230). The roller groove (230'') may include a groove defined in the first side portion (210') and a groove defined in the second side portion (210'').

[0128] In one embodiment, the roller portion (230) may have a spherical shape. Accordingly, the corresponding roller groove (230'') may also have a shape of a portion of a sphere. The roller portion (230) may be disposed inside the roller groove (230''). At least a portion of the roller portion (230) may protrude outward from the roller groove (230''). The area of ​​the roller groove (230'') may be smaller than the cross-sectional area passing through the center of the roller portion (230). Therefore, the roller portion (230) may be disposed inside the roller groove (230'') so as to be bound to the chain portion (210) and not be separated from the chain portion (210).

[0129] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a sixth embodiment of a chain unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 12, the sixth embodiment of the chain unit (206) in the present invention may include a chain unit (210) without wing portions instead of the chain unit (210) having wing portions (214) in the first embodiment described above, and a roller unit (230) disposed outside the chain unit (210) instead of the roller unit (230) disposed inside the chain unit (210).

[0131] A sixth embodiment of the chain unit (206) may include a chain portion (210), a roller portion (230), and an auxiliary roller (240).

[0132] The chain portion (210) can form the body of the chain unit (201). The chain portion (210) can define pin holes (216) at each end. The chain portion (210) can be connected to another chain portion (210) by a solid pin (220) inserted into the pin hole (216).

[0133] The chain portion (210) may include a first side portion (210') and a second side portion (210''). The first side portion (210') may be a portion located on the left side of the chain portion (210), and the second side portion (210'') may be a portion located on the right side of the chain portion (210). The first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210'') may be connected to each other.

[0134] The roller part (230) may be provided on the chain part (210), and at least a portion thereof may protrude outwardly from at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the chain part (210). At this time, at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the roller part (230) may protrude outwardly from at least one of the upper and lower surfaces (210a, 210b) of the chain part (210). The roller part (230) may be provided on the upper or lower side of the chain part (210). However, preferably, the roller part (230) may be provided on each of the upper and lower sides of the chain part (210). Accordingly, the roller part (230) may include a first roller part (230a) provided on the upper side of the chain part (210) and a second roller part (230b) provided on the lower side of the chain part (210).

[0135] The first roller portion (230a) may protrude at least partially outwardly from the upper surface (210a) of the chain portion (210). The second roller portion (230b) may be spaced apart from the first roller portion (230a) and may protrude at least partially outwardly from the lower surface (210b) of the chain portion (210).

[0136] The roller unit (230) may be provided on the side surface (210c) of the chain unit (210). That is, the shafts (230c) of each of the first roller unit (230a) and the second roller unit (230b) may be arranged on the outside of the chain unit (210). One end of the shaft (230c) of the roller unit (230) including the first roller unit (230a) and the second roller unit (230b) may be connected to the outer surface (210c) of the chain unit (210).

[0137] Each of the first roller portion (230a) and the second roller portion (230b) may be arranged on a side surface of the first side portion (210') and may be arranged on a side surface of the second side portion (210''). Accordingly, in order to balance the height between the first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210''), each of the first side portion (210') and the second side portion (210'') may have at least one first roller portion (230a) and at least one second roller portion (230b). Preferably, the chain portion (210) may include four first roller portions (230a) and four second roller portions (230b).

[0138] The roller portion (230) may have a roller shape. For example, the roller portion (230) may have a flat roller shape with the same height at the center and both ends. As another example, the roller portion (230) may have a convex roller shape with the center height being higher than the heights at both ends. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the roller portion (230) may have a spherical shape.

[0139] The auxiliary roller (240) may be provided on the chain portion (210) similarly to the roller portion (230). The auxiliary roller (240) may protrude at least a portion outwardly from at least one side surface (210c) of the chain portion (210). At this time, at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the auxiliary roller (240) may protrude outwardly from at least one side surface (210c) of the chain portion (210). The auxiliary roller (240) may be provided on each of the two sides (210c) of the chain portion (210). Accordingly, the auxiliary roller (240) may include a first auxiliary roller provided on the left side of the chain portion (210) and a second auxiliary roller provided on the right side of the chain portion (210).

[0140] The above merely illustrates a specific embodiment of the sludge collector.

[0141] Accordingly, it is to be made clear that a person having ordinary skill in the art can easily understand that the present invention can be substituted and modified in various forms without departing from the spirit of the present invention described in the claims below.

Claims

1. In a chain assembly including a plurality of chain units connected to each other, Each chain unit, A chain section defining pinholes at each end; and A roller part provided on the chain part, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the upper and lower surfaces of the chain part protrudes outward; Chain assembly.

2. In paragraph 1, The above roller part, A first roller portion, at least a portion of which protrudes outward from the upper surface of the chain portion; and A second roller portion, which is spaced apart from the first roller portion and at least a portion of which protrudes outward from the lower surface facing the upper surface of the chain portion; Chain assembly.

3. In paragraph 2, The axles of each of the first roller section and the second roller section are arranged inside the chain section. Chain assembly.

4. In paragraph 3, The ends of the axles of each of the first roller section and the second roller section are connected to the inside of the chain section. Chain assembly.

5. In paragraph 2, The above chain part, a chain body defining the above pinhole; and It further includes a wing portion protruding outward from one of the upper and lower surfaces of the chain body portion; The upper and lower surfaces of the above chain portion include the upper and lower surfaces of the above wing portion. Chain assembly.

6. In paragraph 5, The axes of each of the first roller section and the second roller section are arranged inside the wing section. Chain assembly.

7. In paragraph 2, The axles of each of the first roller section and the second roller section are arranged on the outside of the chain section. Chain assembly.

8. In paragraph 7, One end of the shaft of each of the first roller section and the second roller section is connected to the outer surface of the chain section, Chain assembly.

9. In paragraph 1, The above chain portion further defines a roller groove corresponding to the shape of a portion of the above roller portion, The above roller part is placed inside the roller groove, At least a portion of the roller portion protrudes outward from the roller groove, Chain assembly.

10. In paragraph 9, The above roller part has one of the shapes of a roller and a sphere, Chain assembly.

11. In paragraph 1, Further comprising an auxiliary roller provided on the chain portion and having at least a portion protruding outward from at least one side surface of the chain portion. Chain assembly.

12. In paragraph 11, The axis of the above auxiliary roller is placed inside the above chain section, Chain assembly.

13. In paragraph 11, The rotational axis direction of the above roller part and the rotational axis direction of the above auxiliary roller intersect each other. Chain assembly.

14. Multiple sprockets; and A chain assembly of claim 1 that is engaged with the plurality of sprockets and moves in an orbit; Sludge collector.

15. In paragraph 14, The above plurality of sprockets are, A drive sprocket having a toothed portion that engages with the above chain assembly; and A driven sprocket having a curved outer surface shape, which changes the direction of movement of the chain unit at another point of the chain assembly, Sludge collector.

16. In paragraph 15, When the above driven sprocket changes the direction of movement of the chain unit, the roller portion comes into contact with the outer surface of the driven sprocket. Sludge collector.

17. In paragraph 16, When the roller portion comes into contact with the outer surface of the driven sprocket, the chain portion is spaced apart from the outer surface of the driven sprocket. Sludge collector.

18. In paragraph 15, Further comprising an auxiliary roller provided on the chain portion and having at least a portion protruding outward from at least one side surface of the chain portion. Sludge collector.

19. In paragraph 18, The above driven sprocket is, Including a guide line protruding from the outer surface of the above-mentioned driven sprocket, When the above driven sprocket changes the direction of movement of the above chain unit, the auxiliary roller comes into contact with the above guide line. Sludge collector.

20. In paragraph 19, When the auxiliary roller comes into contact with the guide line, the chain portion is spaced apart from the guide line. Sludge collector.

Images