Cylinder alignment

Abstract

An arrangement (100) and a method (1000) for positioning of a pressure cylinder (110) of a press apparatus in a mounting position (130) for mounting of a first and / or second end closure (140, 160) for closure of a first and / or second end (150, 170) of the pressure cylinder, are provided. The arrangement comprises a transportation unit (200) comprising a bogie arrangement (250) arranged to transport the pressure cylinder to (from) a first location (300) comprising the mounting position, from (to) a second location (310), and a first spring arrangement (400) arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit. The first spring arrangement is arranged to position the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, in the first location, corresponds to the mounting position.

Description

[0001] CYLINDER ALIGNMENT

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention generally relates to the field of high pressure technology. In particular, the present invention relates to an arrangement and method for positioning of a pressure cylinder of a press apparatus arranged for a treatment of articles and / or products by means of cold, warm or hot isostatic pressing.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Cold isostatic pressing (CIP), warm isostatic pressing (WIP) and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) are technologies that find more and more widespread use. HIP may for example be used for reducing or even eliminating porosity in castings (e.g., turbine blades) in order to substantially increase their service life and strength (e.g., their fatigue strength).

[0006] A pressure vessel in a conventional high-pressure press comprises a pressure vessel cylinder and closure lids. Between pressing operations, one or both of the lids may be opened, depending on the configuration and design of the press. In addition, a conventional high-pressure press normally comprises a frame for holding the lids, wherein the frame may comprise yokes and columns wound with wire in several layers. When the lid or lids are in a closed and sealed state, the pressure vessel is filled with a fluid pressure medium, i.e. liquid or gas. The frame fixes the lid(s) to the pressure vessel, wherein the pressure vessel cylinder and lid(s) may be subjected to high pressures. Upon pressurization, the frame absorbs axial forces from the lids. Furthermore, upon pressurization, the frame is expandable in an axial direction of the pressure vessel. As a consequence of the expansion of the frame, the lids join this movement in the axial direction. Analogously, during de-pressurization, the frame contracts in the axial direction and the lids consequently join this movement in the axial direction.

[0007] An article to be subjected to pressure treatment by WIP or HIP may be positioned in a load compartment or chamber of a thermally insulated pressure vessel. A treatment cycle may comprise loading the article, treating the article, and unloading the article. Several articles may be treated simultaneously. The treatment cycle may be divided into several parts, or phases, such as a pressing phase, a heating phase, and a cooling phase. After loading an article into the pressure vessel, it may then be sealed, followed by introduction of a pressure medium (e.g., an inert gas such as Argon-containing gas, or a liquid such as water or oil) into the pressure vessel and the load compartment thereof. The pressure and temperature of the pressure medium is then increased, which may be referred to as a pressurization phase, such that the article is subjected to an increased pressure and an increased temperature during a selected period of time. The increase in temperature of the pressure medium, which in turn may cause an increase in temperature of the article, is provided by means of a heating element or furnace arranged in a furnace chamber of the pressure vessel. The heating phase may be carried out concurrently with the pressurization phase, before the pressurization phase, or after the pressurization phase. The subjecting of the article to an increased pressure in the pressure vessel during a selected period of time may be referred to as a pressing phase, or holding phase, of the treatment cycle.

[0008] The pressures, temperatures and treatment times may for example depend on the desired or required material properties of the treated article, the particular field of application, and the required quality of the treated article. Pressures in HIP may for example be in the range from 500 bar to 3000 bar, such as from 500 bar to 2100 bar. Temperatures in HIP may for example be in the range from 300 °C to 3000 °C, such as from 500 °C to 2000 °C. After the pressing phase and prior to opening the pressure vessel to remove the article(s), the pressure in the pressure vessel is generally decreased to a sufficiently low level by withdrawing pressure medium from the pressure vessel. This may be referred to as a pressure reduction phase or pressure relief phase. The treatment cycle may further comprise a cooling phase. Depending on the type of isostatic press employed (e.g., whether the isostatic press is configured to carry out CIP, WIP or HIP), a cooling phase and a heating phase may however not be necessary.

[0009] High pressure processing (HPP) employs a CIP-system using a liquid helping the food industry address global sustainability challenges such as food waste, product recalls, and related foodborne illnesses. The HPP non-thermal method is recognized for inactivating foodbome pathogens and extending refrigerated shelf life, without impact to taste or nutrition, which can be the case for other kinds of food processing methods.

[0010] Before a pressing operation by means of CIP, HIP or WIP according to the above by a press apparatus, and after the pressing operation, respectively, it may be of interest to be able to transport a pressure cylinder of the press apparatus into a position wherein end closures for closing the ends of the pressure cylinder may be mounted and removed, respectively. More specifically, it is of particular interest that the pressure cylinder is transported and / or positioned exactly in / to the position wherein the end closure mounting and / or removal takes place.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide an arrangement and method which are able to transport and / or position a pressure cylinder of a press apparatus to a desired position, e.g. centered in a frame, in which a handling of end closures of the press apparatus may take place. This and other objects are achieved by providing an arrangement and a method in accordance with the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined by the dependent claims.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an arrangement for positioning of a pressure cylinder of a press apparatus in a mounting position for mounting of at least one of a first end closure for closure of a first end of the pressure cylinder and a second end closure for closure of a second end of the pressure cylinder, opposite the first end. The arrangement comprises a transportation unit comprising a bogie arrangement arranged to transport the pressure cylinder to a first location comprising the mounting position, from a second location separated from the first location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively. The transportation unit further comprises a first spring arrangement, operable parallel to an x-direction, and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit. The first spring arrangement is arranged to position the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, in the first location, corresponds to the mounting position.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for positioning a pressure cylinder of a press apparatus in a mounting position for mounting of at least one of a first end closure for closure of a first end of the pressure cylinder and a second end closure for closure of a second end of the pressure cylinder, opposite the first end, via an arrangement comprising a transportation unit comprising a bogie arrangement, a first spring arrangement, operable parallel to an x-direction, and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit. The method comprises the step of transporting the pressure cylinder, via the transportation unit, to a first location comprising the mounting position, from a second location separated from the first location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively. The method further comprises the step of positioning, via the first spring arrangement, the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, in the first location, corresponds to the mounting position.

[0015] Thus, the present invention is based on the idea of providing an arrangement, and a method, respectively, for positioning of a pressure cylinder of a press apparatus in a mounting position, e.g. centered in a frame, in which a mounting (and / or removal) of the pressure cylinder end closure(s) may take place. Via the transportation unit, comprising the bogie arrangement and the first spring arrangement, the pressure cylinder may be transported efficiently, safely and precisely to (from) the mounting position.

[0016] The present invention is advantageous in that the first spring arrangement of the transportation unit, which is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement, mitigates wear of the bogie arrangement and / or the transportation unit, such as wheels of the bogie arrangement and / or rail(s) of the transportation unit. Consequently, the present invention hereby attains an efficient, safe and precise transportation of the pressure cylinder to (from) the mounting position whilst providing an increased service life of the arrangement due to the reduced wear of wheel(s) and / or rail(s).

[0017] The present invention is further advantageous in that it provides easy and convenient maintenance, adjustment and / or service operations of the arrangement and / or press apparatus.

[0018] The present invention is further advantageous in that it increases the access to relatively large arrangements, whereby these relatively large arrangements consequently entail relatively large loads, stresses and / or strains.

[0019] The present invention is further advantageous in that it provides a relatively large marginal to one or more fluid collecting trays of the arrangement due to its capability of achieving a centering of the pressure cylinder before a transportation of the pressure cylinder occurs along the fluid collecting tray(s).

[0020] The present invention is further advantageous in that the first spring arrangement, which is operable parallel to a (e.g. horizontal) x-direction, ensures an exact positioning of the pressure cylinder in the x-direction. Hence, the first spring arrangement contributes to the ability of the arrangement to (exactly) position the pressure cylinder in the mounting position for end closure mounting (removal).

[0021] It should be noted that the friction is not (completely) equal between the seals of the end closures and the pressure cylinder wall during a pressurization operation of the press apparatus, which may result in a possible movement (displacement) of the pressure cylinder in the positive or negative x-direction during the pressurization operation of the press apparatus. The pressure cylinder is not secured (i.e. not fixed, locked, nor fastened) in the x- direction, and the pressure cylinder may hereby move or be displaced in the positive or negative x-direction. The present invention is hereby advantageous in that it impedes that (very high) forces are imparted to rail(s) of the transportation unit, whereby these forces may potentially be detrimental to the construction and / or operation of the press apparatus. The present invention further prevents a gliding of wheel(s) on the rail(s) of the transportation unit, thereby mitigating (excessive) wear on the rail(s). Hence, the present invention hereby provides an improved operation and / or service life of the press apparatus.

[0022] The present invention is particularly applicable for a press apparatus having first end and second end closures which may be (completely) removable from the pressure cylinder, i.e. that the first end and second end closures may be physically separated from the pressure cylinder. Hence, one or both of the first end and second end closures may be removed from the pressure cylinder, e.g. upon article insertion and / or removal to (from) the pressure cylinder. During operation of the press apparatus, the frame of the press apparatus holds the (removable) first end and second end closures, and absorbs axial forces from the end closures. It should be noted that the press apparatus furthermore may comprise one or more press plates which may be inserted after the first and / or second end closure has (have) been mounted (arranged) on the pressure cylinder.

[0023] There is provided an arrangement for positioning of a pressure cylinder of a press apparatus in a mounting position for mounting of at least one of a first end closure for closure of a first end of the pressure cylinder and a second end closure for closure of a second end of the pressure cylinder, opposite the first end. By “press apparatus”, it is here meant substantially any high pressure apparatus, such as a CIP, WIP or a HIP. Consequently, the “pressure cylinder” of the press apparatus constitutes the vessel or container in which one or more articles may be provided (e.g. in a load compartment or chamber thereof) in order to be subjected to high pressure treatment. By “first end closure” and “second end closure”, it is here meant the closures, lids, or the like, of the respective ends of the pressure cylinder. The arrangement comprises a transportation unit comprising a bogie arrangement arranged to transport the pressure cylinder to a first location comprising the mounting position, from a second location separated from the first location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively. Hence, via the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit, the arrangement may transport the pressure cylinder back and forth between the second and first positions, i.e. from a second (outer) position to a first location in which a mounting operation of the press apparatus may take place, and back to the second (outer) position. The transportation unit further comprises a first spring arrangement, operable parallel to an x- direction, and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit. By “first spring arrangement”, it is here meant substantially any arrangement, unit, or the like, comprising one or more springs of substantially any kind, such as disc springs, gas springs, etc., or even a hydraulic or pneumatic piston. By the wording “first spring arrangement, operable parallel to an x-direction”, it is here meant that the first spring arrangement may exert a force parallel to (or in) the x-direction. By the wording “arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit”, it is meant that the first spring arrangement is configured (arranged) to exert a force, parallel to (or in) the (positive or negative) x-direction, on the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit in case of (upon) a displacement of the pressure cylinder that the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit is arranged to transport. It will be appreciated that the first spring arrangement, arranged to impart a bias on the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit, may be preloaded or prestressed. The first spring arrangement is arranged to position the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, in the first location, corresponds to the mounting position. Hence, via the first spring arrangement, the arrangement is capable of positioning the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, which in the first location corresponds (is) the mounting position.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the transportation unit may further comprise a second spring arrangement, operable parallel to a z-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the second spring arrangement is connected to the bogie arrangement. By the wording “second spring arrangement, operable parallel to a z- direction”, it is here meant that the second spring arrangement may exert a force parallel to (or in) the z-direction. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the second spring arrangement, which is operable parallel to a (e.g. vertical) z-direction, mitigates, or even prevents, a gliding of the bogie arrangement on a rail unit of the transportation unit. An (unwanted) gliding, i.e. a slip(ing) or slid(e)(ing), may lead to wear of arrangement component s), which in turn may negatively influence the operation and / or service life of the arrangement. For example, wear of one or more wheels of the bogie arrangement and / or wear of rail(s) of the transportation unit due to a gliding, slipping and / or sliding of the bogie arrangement on a rail unit of the transportation unit may deteriorate the arrangement’s operation and / or service life. In case the gliding occurs at the same or similar place(s) or position(s), the wear of the wheels may lead to that the wheels lose their roundness, which consequently infers an increased wear on the rail(s). It should be noted that in case one or more rail units is (are) not (completely) horizontally arranged, a gliding of a bogie arrangement on a rail unit of a transportation unit may occur. More specifically, in case of the arrangement comprising a first pair of first (front) transportation unit sets, and a second pair of second (back) transportation unit sets, wherein the first pair of first transportation unit sets and the second pair of second transportation unit sets are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder, a situation could possibly occur in which one bogie arrangement of a second pair of second (back, rear) transportation unit sets could risk gliding on a rail unit of the respective transportation unit. This is due to the first pair of first (front) transportation unit sets taking on a larger part of the weight of the pressure cylinder compared to the second pair of second (back, rear) transportation unit sets, and wheels of the first pair of first (front) transportation unit sets will (always) be in contact with the rail unit(s). However, by the features of the present invention, a gliding of the bogie arrangement on the rail unit of the transportation unit may be mitigated. At the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder in the first location, corresponding to the mounting position, the weight of the pressure cylinder is distributed on (the) bogie units of the bogie arrangement, and the second spring arrangement saturates. Upon opening of the pressure cylinder, the second spring arrangement may forcibly bias the wheels against the rail units, even in case of an unbalanced distribution of pressure cylinder weight on the bogie arrangements of the second pair of second (back, rear) transportation unit sets. Hence, as the second spring arrangement impedes, or even prevents, a gliding of the bogie arrangement on a rail unit of the transportation unit, the second spring arrangement may provide and / or contribute to a reliable operation of the transportation unit, e.g. that (the) wheel(s) roll(s) on rail unit(s) of the transportation unit (even in case rail unit(s) is (are) not parallel to an x-y-plane). The present embodiment hereby achieves an improved operation of the arrangement according to the present invention. Furthermore, in case of the arrangement comprising a first pair of first (front) transportation unit sets, and a second pair of second (back) transportation unit sets, wherein the first pair of first transportation unit sets and the second pair of second transportation unit sets are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder, a second pair of second (back, rear) transportation unit sets may respectively comprise a relatively weak second spring arrangement (i.e. in case of one or more springs, the spring(s) may have a relatively small spring constant k) such that the second spring arrangement may saturate. Via at least one second adjustment element coupled to the bogie arrangement and operable parallel to a z- direction, perpendicular to the x-direction, the saturated second spring arrangement and the (correctly adjusted) second adjustment element(s) attain an exact positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction. By this construction, the second spring arrangement contributes to the ability of the arrangement to (exactly) position the pressure cylinder in the mounting position, e.g. centered in a frame, for end closure mounting (removal).

[0025] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the transportation unit may comprise a plurality of rail units, the bogie arrangement may comprise a plurality of bogie units, wherein each bogie unit is movably arranged on a respective rail unit, and the first spring arrangement may comprise a plurality of first spring units, wherein each first spring unit is connected to a respective bogie unit. Hence, the arrangement is divided into (sub) units, comprising rail units, bogie units movably arranged on the rail units, as well as first spring units connected to the bogie units.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second spring arrangement may comprise a plurality of second spring units, wherein each second spring unit is connected to a respective bogie unit. Hence, the arrangement of the present embodiment comprises a combination of a first and a second spring arrangement, with associated first and second spring units.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of rail units may extend parallel to a y-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction. Hence, the plurality of rail units extends parallel to a y-direction, which is perpendicular to the x-direction in which direction the first spring arrangement is operable. The bogie arrangement may hereby be arranged to transport the pressure cylinder to the first location comprising the mounting position, in a direction parallel to the y-direction (parallel to (or in) the positive y-direction), from a second location separated from the first location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively, in a direction parallel to the y-direction (parallel to (or in) the negative y-direction). Hence, the plurality of bogie units of the bogie arrangement is movably arranged parallel to (or in) the y-direction on the plurality of rail units extending parallel to (or in) the y-direction. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the arrangement provides a distinct and perpendicular operation by the transportation of the pressure cylinder via the rail units of the transportation unit in the y-direction, while the first spring arrangement operates in the x-direction, thereby attaining a safe, efficient and precise pressure cylinder transportation.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the x-direction and the y-direction may extend in a horizontal plane, and wherein the arrangement is arranged to transport the pressure cylinder between the first location and second location in the horizontal plane. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the arrangement provides a convenient transportation of the pressure cylinder in the horizontal plane.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement may further comprise at least one first adjustment element coupled to the first spring arrangement, wherein the at least one first adjustment element is configured to adjust the first spring arrangement. Hence, the arrangement may comprise one or more first adjustment elements coupled or connected to the first spring arrangement(s) for adjustment thereof. By the term “adjustment element”, it is here meant substantially any element, device, unit or arrangement comprising one or more components configured to adjust the first spring arrangement. For example, the first adjustment element(s) may comprise one or more threads. According to a specific example, the first adjustment element(s) may be or comprise a threaded support. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the first adjustment element(s) provide(s) the possibility to easily and conveniently adjust the first spring arrangements, which consequently leads to an even more exact and precise positioning of the pressure cylinder and operation of the arrangement for transportation of the pressure cylinder. The present embodiment is further advantageous in that the first adjustment element(s) provides the ability to adjust and / or customize a pre-stress of the first spring arrangement. More specifically, by the provided ability to adjust the first adjustment element(s), and based on one or more properties of the first spring arrangement (e.g. spring force constant(s), etc.), the present embodiment may conveniently provide a desired pre-stress and / or bias of the first spring arrangement which may correspond to a (desired) pre-stress and / or bias from calculation(s), simulation(s) and / or experiment s). Consequently, the present embodiment leads to an improved operation of the arrangement.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement may further comprise at least one second adjustment element coupled to the bogie arrangement and operable parallel to a z-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the at least one second adjustment element is configured to adjust a positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the second adjustment element(s) provide(s) the possibility to easily and conveniently adjust the positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction, which consequently leads to an even more exact and precise positioning of the pressure cylinder and operation of the arrangement for transportation of the pressure cylinder. The present embodiment is further advantageous in that the second adjustment element contributes to a reliable operation of the transportation unit, e.g. that that the second adjustment element contributes to the arrangement operation of (the) wheel(s) being able to roll on rail unit(s) of the transportation unit (even in case rail unit(s) is (are) not parallel to an x-y-plane). It should be noted that for compensation of a possible misalignment of one or more rail units, any rotational locking of the bogie units parallel to the z-direction, is to be avoided. The second adjustment element(s), which is (are) operable parallel to the z-direction, may be configured to avoid such rotational locking around the z-direction. The second adjustment element(s) may, for example, be cylindrical, and may be arranged for connection into a correspondingly formed cylindrical hole in the bogie arrangement.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement may further comprise four transportation unit sets, wherein at least a first transportation unit set of the transportation unit sets comprises one rail unit of the plurality of rails units, one bogie unit of the plurality of bogie units, and one first spring unit of the plurality of first spring units, wherein the transportation unit sets are separately arranged and spaced apart from each other. Hence, the arrangement comprises four transportation unit sets, wherein at least one (e.g. two) transportation unit set(s) thereof comprises a rail unit, a bogie unit, as well as a first spring unit. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the first transportation unit set(s) provide(s) even further stability and precision for the operation of the arrangement, thereby even further augmenting the efficiency, safety and precision of the transportation of the pressure cylinder.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least a second transportation unit set of the transportation unit sets may comprise one rail unit of the plurality of rails units, one bogie unit of the plurality of bogie units, one first spring unit of the plurality of first spring units, and one second spring unit of the plurality of second spring units, wherein the transportation unit sets are separately arranged and spaced apart from each other. Hence, the arrangement comprises four transportation unit sets, wherein at least one (e.g. two) transportation unit set(s) thereof comprises a rail unit, a bogie unit, as well as first and second spring units. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the one or more second transportation unit set(s) of the (four) transportation unit sets provide even further stability and precision for the operation of the arrangement, thereby even further augmenting the efficiency, safety and precision of the transportation of the pressure cylinder.

[0033] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement may comprise a first pair of first transportation unit sets, and a second pair of second transportation unit sets, wherein the first pair of first transportation unit sets and the second pair of second transportation unit sets are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder in relation to a direction of movement of the pressure cylinder to the first location from the second location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively. Hence, the first pair of first transportation unit sets may constitute a couple of (i.e. two) front transportation unit sets, and the second pair of second transportation unit sets may constitute a couple of (i.e. two) back transportation unit sets. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the respective pairs of transportation unit sets may have different properties, adapted for the operation of the arrangement. Consequently, an even further increased efficiency, safety and / or precision of the transportation of the pressure cylinder may be achieved.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arrangement may comprise a first pair of first transportation unit sets, and a rear first transportation unit set, wherein the first pair of first transportation unit sets and the rear first transportation unit set are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder in relation to a direction of movement of the pressure cylinder to the first location from the second location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively, wherein the rail unit of the rear first transportation unit set extends parallel to a y-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction, and wherein the first spring unit of the rear first transportation unit set comprises two springs arranged on opposite sides of the rail unit in a plane parallel to the x-direction and the y-direction. Hence, the arrangement may comprise a total of three transportation unit sets, comprising a pair (i.e. two) of (front) first transportation unit sets and a single (i.e. one) (rear, back) first transportation unit set. The two springs of the spring unit of the rear first transportation unit set, which both are operable in the x-direction, are arranged on opposite sides of the rail unit in a plane parallel to the x-direction and the y-direction. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the arrangement may constitute an alternative to the embodiment of four transportation unit sets (i.e. comprising a first and second pair of transportation unit sets), whereby the rear first transportation unit set implies a single (i.e. one) rail unit and a single (i.e. one) bogie unit.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system comprising a press apparatus for processing at least one article, wherein the press apparatus comprises a pressure cylinder for holding the at least one article, wherein the pressure cylinder comprises a first end, and a second end, opposite the first end, a first end closure for closure of the first end of the pressure cylinder, and a second end closure for closure of the second end of the pressure cylinder, and an arrangement according to any one of the preceding embodiments. It will be appreciated that the system, which comprises the press apparatus and the arrangement according to one or more of the preceding embodiments, provides the same or similar advantages as presented for the arrangement.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the press apparatus is horizontally arranged, whereby the pressure cylinder extends horizontally. Hence, the embodiment implies that the pressure cylinder is oriented horizontally, i.e. that its principal axis is aligned horizontally. The present embodiment is advantageous in that the horizontal orientation of the pressure cylinder results in a facilitated and more convenient transportation of the pressure cylinder by the system. The present embodiment is further advantageous in that a horizontal orientation of the pressure cylinder is beneficial in cases where there is a limitation in height of the space available for the arrangement and / or system.

[0037] Further objects and advantages of the present invention are described in the following by means of exemplifying embodiments. It is noted that the present invention relates to all possible combinations of features recited in the claims. Further features of, and advantages with, the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the description herein. Those skilled in the art realize that different features of the present invention can be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Exemplifying embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figs. 1 and 2 are schematic views of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention,

[0041] Fig. 3a is a schematic view of a part of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention,

[0042] Fig. 3b is a schematic diagram of forces associated with an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention,

[0043] Figs. 4 and 5 are schematic views of a part of an arrangement according to exemplifying embodiments of the present invention,

[0044] Fig. 6a is a schematic view of a cross-section of a rear first transportation unit set of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention,

[0045] Figs. 6b and 6c are schematic views of a rear first transportation unit set of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention,

[0046] Figs. 7a and 7b are schematic views of a transportation unit set of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig. 8 is a schematic view in a cross-section of a transportation unit set of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig. 9a is a schematic view in a cross-section of a transportation unit set of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Fig. 9b and 10 are schematic views of a transportation unit set of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Fig. 11 is a schematic view in a cross-section of a transportation unit set of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Fig. 12 is a schematic view in a cross-section of a transportation unit set of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention, and

[0052] Fig. 13 is a schematic view of a method according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. All the figures are schematic, not necessarily to scale, and generally only show parts which are necessary in order to elucidate embodiments of the present invention, wherein other parts may be omitted or merely suggested.

[0053] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] The present invention will now be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplifying embodiments of the present invention are shown. The present invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments of the present invention set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0055] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The arrangement 100 is provided for positioning of a pressure cylinder 110 of a press apparatus. It should be noted that the press apparatus may be substantially any (high) pressure press apparatus or arrangement, such as a CIP, WIP, HIP, or the like. The press apparatus may be configured to treat at least one article by means of isostatic pressing. Treatment by means of isostatic pressing facilitates or allows for achieving the same material properties of all articles treated by the press apparatus. For example, the press apparatus may be configured to treat at least one article by means of at least one of CIP, WIP, HPP or HIP. In general, the treatment by means of CIP may involve a temperature in the pressure vessel that is equal to or lower than (e.g., about) 50 °C, e.g., in a range between (e.g., about) room temperature (e.g., 20 °C) and (e.g., about) 50 °C, in the pressure vessel. Further, the treatment by means of CIP may involve a pressure in the pressure vessel that is in a range between (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 1600 MPa, such as between (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 600 MPa, depending on material of the article(s) being treated and the temperature in the pressure vessel. In general, the treatment by means of WIP may involve a temperature in the pressure vessel that is in a range between (e.g., about) 50 °C and (e.g., about) 400 °C, in the pressure vessel. Further, the treatment by means of WIP may involve a pressure in the pressure vessel that is in a range between (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 1600 MPa, such as between (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 600 MPa, depending on material of the article(s) being treated and the temperature in the pressure vessel. In general, the treatment by means of HIP may involve a temperature in the pressure vessel that is equal to or higher than (e.g., about) 400 °C, e.g., in a range between (e.g., about) 400 °C and (e.g., about) 2500 °C, in the pressure vessel. Further, the treatment by means of HIP may involve a pressure in the pressure vessel that is in a range between (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 300 MPa, such as between (e.g., about) 50 MPa to (e.g., about) 210 MPa, depending on material of the article(s) being treated and the temperature in the pressure vessel. In general, the treatment by means of HPP may involve a temperature in the pressure vessel that is equal to or higher than (e.g., about) 0 °C, e.g., in a range between (e.g., about) 0 °C and (e.g., about) 100 °C, typically in a range between (e.g., about) 4 °C and (e.g., about) 40 °C, in the pressure vessel. Further, the treatment by means of HPP may involve a pressure in the pressure vessel that is in a range between (e.g., about) 100 MPa to (e.g., about) 800 MPa, commonly between (e.g., about) 400 MPa to (e.g., about) 600 MPa, depending on material of the article(s) being treated and the temperature in the pressure vessel. Depending on the application, it may however be desired or even required to achieve a pressure in the pressure vessel as high as 6000 bar (600 MPa), or even higher.

[0056] The arrangement 100 in Fig. 1 is arranged to position the pressure cylinder 110 in a mounting position 130, schematically indicated by a rectangle, for mounting of a first end closure 140 for closure of a first end 150 of the pressure cylinder 110 and / or a second end closure 160 for closure of a second end 170 of the pressure cylinder 110, opposite the first end 150. The arrangement 100 comprises a transportation unit 200, schematically indicated by a rectangle. The transportation unit 200 comprises a bogie arrangement 250 arranged to transport the pressure cylinder 110 to a first location 300, schematically indicated by a rectangle, comprising the mounting position 130, from a second location 310, schematically indicated by a rectangle, wherein the second location 310 is separated from the first location 300. Analogously, the bogie arrangement 250 is arranged to transport the pressure cylinder 110 from the first location 300 (back) to the second location 310. The transportation unit 200 further comprises a first spring arrangement 400, schematically indicated by a rectangle. The first spring arrangement 400 is operable parallel to an x-direction and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement 250 of the transportation unit 200. The first spring arrangement 400 is arranged to position the pressure cylinder 110 in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder 110, in the first location 300, corresponds to the mounting position 130.

[0057] Fig. 2 is a schematic view of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 shows a pressure cylinder 110 of a press apparatus 120, whereby the pressure cylinder 110 is (has been) positioned in the press apparatus 120 by the arrangement 100. It should be noted that the press apparatus 120 may be substantially any (high) pressure press apparatus or arrangement, such as a CIP, WIP, HIP, or the like. The pressure cylinder 110 is surrounded by a press frame 115. The press frame 115 comprises yokes and columns and may be wound with wire (not shown) in several layers, whereby the press frame 115 is pre-stressed. Alternatively, the press frame 115 may be a (non-wound) laminated steel plate frame, and the pressure cylinder 110 may have a monoblock construction.

[0058] The press apparatus 120 comprises a first end closure 140 for closure of a first end of the pressure cylinder 110 (left hand side of Fig. 2) and a second end closure 160 for closure of a second end of the pressure cylinder 110 (right hand side of Fig. 2), opposite the first end. It should be noted that the friction is not (completely) equal between the seals of the first end closure 140 and the second end closure 160 and the wall of the pressure cylinder 110. This may result in a possible movement (displacement) of the pressure cylinder 110 in the positive or negative x-direction during the pressurization operation of the press apparatus 120, as indicated by arrow 125. Hence, the pressure cylinder 110 is not secured (i.e. not fixed, locked, nor fastened) in the x-direction, and the pressure cylinder 110 may move or be displaced in the positive or negative x-direction as indicated by arrow 125. According to the example of the arrangement 100 shown in Fig. 2, the press apparatus 120 comprises a frame structure 118. A frame structure portion 118a on the left hand side of the press apparatus 120 is secured (i.e. fixed, locked or fastened), as indicated by the schematically shown securement 118b, and a frame structure portion 118c on the right hand side of the press apparatus 120 is fastened to a right hand side yoke of the press apparatus 120. The press frame 115 is expandable (i.e. free to expand) in the x-direction during a pressurization operation, and the frame structure portion 118c is displaced together with the press frame 115. As the press frame 115 may expand (to the right), the (right) second end closure 160 may consequently pull the pressure cylinder 110 by friction between the seal of the second end closure 160 and the wall of the pressure cylinder 110. The described expansion is realizable via the schematically shown wheel 118d. A movement or displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 is hereby possible during expansion of the press frame 115 during pressurization and contraction of the press frame 115 during de-pressurization of the press apparatus 120. Analogously, it should be noted that an opposite construction than that shown in Fig. 2 is perfectly feasible. Hence, a frame structure portion on the right hand side of the press apparatus 120 may be secured (i.e. fixed, locked or fastened), and a frame structure portion on the left hand side of the press apparatus 120 may be fastened to a left hand side yoke of the press apparatus 120, with a reverse / opposite operation than that described above.

[0059] Fig. 3a is a schematic view of a part of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The first spring arrangement of the transportation unit of the arrangement 100 comprises a plurality of (here, four) first spring units 1-4, wherein each first spring unit 1-4 is connected to a respective bogie unit for transportation of the pressure cylinder 110. The bogie units are movable in a y-direction for the pressure cylinder 110 transportation. The first spring arrangement is operable parallel to an x-direction, whereby the plurality of first spring units 1-4 is operable (oriented, aligned) parallel to (in) the x-direction. The first spring units 1, 3 belong to a first pair of first (front) transportation unit sets, and the first spring units 2, 4 belong to a second pair of second (rear, back) transportation unit sets, wherein the first pair of first transportation unit sets and the second pair of second transportation unit sets are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder 110. It should be noted that the pressure cylinder 110 is merely indicated schematically by a dashed rectangle for an increased view and understanding of the part of the arrangement 100 as shown in Fig. 3a. The coordinate system in Fig. 3a is placed in the mass centre of the pressure cylinder 110.

[0060] Fig. 3b is a schematic diagram of forces on a (wire wound) pressure cylinder 110 as a function of displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 according to an exemplifying embodiment of the arrangement of the present invention. It should be noted that the diagram of Fig. 3b is associated with the described movement or displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 of Fig. 2, and the text related thereto, and the diagram of Fig. 3b is further associated with the (four) first spring units 1-4 of Fig. 3a and the text related thereto.

[0061] A left hand side portion of the diagram of Fig. 3b discloses forces on a pressure cylinder 110 as a function of displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in a negative x direction (as indicated in Figs. 2 and 3a). The force, FIs, of (on) the (primary) first spring unit 1 and the force, F2s, of (on) the (secondary) first spring unit 2 are reaction forces from the respective first and second spring units 1, 2 on an upper bracket of the respective bogie unit. The (upper) brackets are fixated on the pressure cylinder 110, and the reaction forces from the first and second spring units 1, 2 and the friction forces (described below) act on the pressure cylinder 110. Here, the force, FIs, of (on) the (primary) first spring unit 1 and the force, F2s, of (on) the (secondary) first spring unit 2, are relatively high due to the displacement of the pressure cylinder in the negative x direction. The force, FIs, of (on) the (primary) first spring unit 1, wherein the (primary) first spring unit 1 constitutes a first spring unit 1 of a first (front) transportation unit set is significantly higher than force, F2s, of (on) the (secondary) first spring unit 2, wherein the (secondary) first spring unit 2 constitutes a first spring unit 2 of a secondary (rear, back) transportation unit set. The reason for FIs > F2s is that the spring constant of the (primary) first spring unit 1 is larger than the spring constant of the (secondary) first spring unit 2. It should be noted that in order not to introduce undesired torques on the pressure cylinder 110 (around the z-axis), the spring constants are set and / or customized in this way in order to counteract the friction between bracket and shaft of the respective bogie unit. The friction force, Flf, of the (primary) first spring unit 1, the friction force, F3f, of the (tertiary) first spring unit 3, the friction force, F2f, of the (secondary) first spring unit 2 and the friction force, F4f, of the (quaternary) first spring unit 4 are negative, counteracting the positive forces, FIs and F2s. The (absolute value of the) friction forces, Flf, of the (primary) first spring unit 1, and F3f, of the (tertiary) first spring unit 3, wherein the first spring units 1,3 belong to a first (front) transportation unit set, are significantly higher (in absolute value) than the (absolute value of the) friction force, F2f, of the (secondary) first spring unit, 2, and the friction force, F4f, of the (quaternary) first spring unit, 4, wherein the (secondary and quaternary) first spring units 2,4 constitute first spring units 2,4 of a secondary (rear, back) pair of transportation unit sets. The reason for F If > F2f and F3f > F4f is that a larger portion of the weight of the pressure cylinder 110 rests on the bogie units of the first pair of first (front) transportation unit sets compared to the weight of the pressure cylinder 110 that rests on the second pair of second (rear, back) transportation unit sets. At the left hand side portion of the diagram of Fig. 3b, i.e. in the negative x-direction, the sum of the forces, FSum, is positive, and the pressure cylinder 100 is hereby forced in the positive x direction towards the equilibrium position.

[0062] Analogously, a right hand side portion of the diagram of Fig. 3b discloses forces on a pressure cylinder 110 as a function of displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in a positive x direction (as indicated in Figs. 2 and 3a). The force, F3s, of (on) the (tertiary) first spring unit 3 and the force, F4s, of (on) the (quaternary) first spring unit 4 are reaction forces from on an upper bracket of the respective bogie unit. The (upper) brackets are fixated on the pressure cylinder 110, and the reaction forces from the third and fourth spring units 3, 4 and the friction forces (described below) act on the pressure cylinder 110. Here, the force, F3s, of (on) the (tertiary) first spring unit 3 and the force, F4s, of (on) the (quaternary) first spring unit 4, are relatively high in absolute values (i.e. the negative forces of F3s and F4s are relatively high) due to the displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in the positive x direction. The force, F3s, of (on) the (tertiary) first spring unit 3, wherein the (tertiary) first spring unit 3 constitutes a first spring unit 3 of a first (front) transportation unit set is significantly higher (in absolute value) than force, F4s, of (on) the (quaternary) first spring unit 4, wherein the (quaternary) first spring unit 4 constitutes a first spring unit 4 of a secondary (rear, back) transportation unit set. The reason for (the absolute value of) F3s > (the absolute value of) F4s is that the spring constant of the (tertiary) first spring unit 3 is larger than the spring constant of the (quaternary) first spring unit 4. Analogously with the previously described first and secondary spring units 1, 2, the spring constants are set and / or customized to counteract the friction between bracket and shaft of the respective bogie unit. The friction force, F If, of the (primary) first spring unit 1, the friction force, F3f, of the (tertiary) first spring unit 3, the friction force, F2f, of the (secondary) first spring unit 2 and the friction force, F4f, of the (quaternary) first spring unit 4 are positive, counteracting the negative forces, F3s and F4s. The friction forces, F If, F3f, of the (primary) first spring unit 1 and (tertiary) first spring unit 3, respectively, wherein the first spring units 1,3 belong to a first (front) transportation unit set, are significantly higher than the (absolute value of the) friction forces, F2f, F4f, of the (secondary) first spring unit, 2, and of the (quaternary) first spring unit, 4, respectively, wherein the (secondary and quaternary) first spring units 2, 4 constitute first spring units 2, 4 of secondary (rear, back) transportation unit sets. At the right hand side portion of the diagram of Fig. 3b, the sum of the forces, FSum, is negative, and the pressure cylinder 110 is thereby forced in the negative x direction towards the equilibrium position.

[0063] The setting of the spring constants for the spring units 1-4, and the consequential difference of the forces (FIs > F2s; F3s > F4s) via the larger pre-stress and larger spring constants associated with the bogie units of the first pair of first (front) transportation unit sets compared to the bogie units of the second pair of second (rear, back) transportation unit sets leads to a parallel and reliable transportation of the pressure cylinder 110 towards the equilibrium position.

[0064] It should be noted that the arrangement 100 as described by Figs. 3a and 3b provides a restoring force (corresponding to FSum) on the pressure cylinder 110 if displaced, and that the restoring force is a function of the magnitude of the pressure cylinder 110 displacement. In case the spring units 1-4 comprise springs, the larger the displacement, the larger the restoring force. In case the spring units 1-4 comprise hydraulic and / or pneumatic elements, the restoring force may be constant, or substantially constant, at a displacement of the pressure cylinder 110. In case of a displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in the negative x direction, the force, F3s, of the (tertiary) first spring unit 3 and the force, F4s, of the (quaternary) first spring unit 4 are zero (i.e. F3s = F4s = 0). Instead, the force, FIs, of the (primary) first spring unit 1 and the force, F2s, of the (secondary) first spring unit 2 contribute to the restoring force. Analogously, in case of a displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in the positive x direction, the force, FIs, of the (primary) first spring unit 1 and the force, F2s, of the (secondary) first spring unit 4 are zero (i.e. FIs = F2s = 0). Instead, the force, F3s, of the (tertiary) first spring unit 3 and the force, F4s, of the (quaternary) first spring unit 4 contribute to the restoring force. As the first spring units 1-4 are pre-stressed, the restoring force will (always) be larger than the friction force.

[0065] Towards a central portion of the diagram of Fig. 3b, or at a central portion of the diagram of Fig. 3b, the absolute values of the forces, FIs, F2s, F3s, and F4s decrease as the pressure cylinder 110 is relatively close to the equilibrium position. Consequently, the (absolute value of the) sum of the forces, FSum, which is positive in case of displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in the negative x direction, and analogously, is negative in case of displacement of the pressure cylinder 110 in the positive x direction, decreases. At the (exact) central portion of the diagram of Fig. 3b, i.e. at x=0 (i.e. no displacement of the pressure cylinder 110), the pressure cylinder 110 is at its equilibrium position, and FSum=0. In practice, due to play between the abutment(s) of the first spring unit(s) and the bracket(s), the equilibrium position may correspond to x=0±0,5mm.

[0066] It will be appreciated that Figs. 3a and 3b (merely) disclose an example of a part of an arrangement 100 and associated forces on the pressure cylinder 110, and that many other configurations of the arrangement 100 and / or pressure relationships may be possible. More specifically, dependently on the placement of the first and second pairs of the transportation unit sets of the arrangement 100, the relation between the forces Flf, F2f, F3f, F4f and FIs, F2s, F3s, F4s may change.

[0067] Fig. 4 is a schematic view of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The arrangement 100 is provided for positioning of a pressure cylinder 110 of a press apparatus 120. It should be noted that the press apparatus 120 may be substantially any (high) pressure press apparatus or arrangement, such as a CIP, WIP, HIP, or the like. In Fig. 4, the pressure cylinder 110 is positioned (i.e. has been positioned by the arrangement 100) in a mounting position for mounting of a first end closure 140 for closure of a first end of the pressure cylinder 110 and / or a second end closure 160 for closure of a second end of the pressure cylinder 110, opposite the first end. The arrangement 100 comprises a transportation unit 200, which in turn comprises a bogie arrangement 250, arranged to transport the pressure cylinder 110 to / from a (first) location comprising the mounting position. The transportation unit 200 comprises a first spring arrangement 400 operable parallel to an x-direction and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement 250 of the transportation unit 200. The first spring arrangement 400 is arranged to position the pressure cylinder 110 in the equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder 110, in the first location, corresponds to the mounting position.

[0068] Notably, in the view of Fig. 4 of the arrangement 100, the transportation unit 200 discloses two transportation unit sets 650a, 650b, as indicated by dashed rectangles. It will be appreciated that the arrangement 100 may comprise four transportation unit sets in total, although two of these are not visible in the view of Fig. 4. More specifically, the arrangement 100 may comprise a first (front) pair of transportation unit sets 650a, 650b, as shown in Fig. 4, and a second (rear, back) pair of transportation unit sets (not visible). Each transportation unit set 650a, 650b, comprises a respective a bogie unit 250a, 250b arranged to transport the pressure cylinder 110 to / from the mounting position thereof. Each bogie unit 250a, 250b is movably arranged parallel to (or in) the y-direction on a respective rail unit 500a, 500b of the respective transportation unit set 650a, 650b. Each transportation unit set 650a, 650b comprises a respective first spring unit 400a, 400b, of the first spring arrangement 400, connected to a respective bogie unit 250a, 250b. The first spring arrangement 400 is operable parallel to an x-direction, whereby the first spring units 400a, 400b are operable (oriented, aligned) parallel to (in) the x-direction. The arrangement 100 further comprises at least one first adjustment element 610a, 610b coupled to the first spring arrangement 400. Here, each first adjustment element 610a, 610b is configured to adjust the respective preloaded first spring unit 400a, 400b of the first spring arrangement 400.

[0069] The arrangement 100 further comprises at least one second adjustment element 620a, 620b coupled to the bogie arrangement 250 and operable parallel to a z- direction, perpendicular to the x-direction. The second adjustment element(s) 620a, 620b, which is (are) configured to adjust a positioning of the pressure cylinder 110 parallel to the z- direction, extend parallel to (in) the z-direction. The second adjustment element(s) 620a, 620b may comprise substantially any components and / or constitute substantially any construction for the purpose of positioning adjustment. For example, the second adjustment element(s) 620a, 620b may be threaded (i.e. comprise one or more threads) for its adjustment operation. Fig. 5 is a schematic view of a part of an arrangement 100 according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. As parts and features of the arrangement 100 in Fig. 5 have been omitted with respect to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 4, it is also referred to Fig. 1 and / or Fig. 4 for an increased understanding of the arrangement 100. In Fig. 5, the transportation unit of the arrangement 100 comprises a plurality of (here, four) rail units 500a- d. The plurality of rail units 500a-d, which each may comprise at least one rail, extend parallel to a y-direction. The bogie arrangement further comprises a plurality of bogie units 250a-d, wherein each bogie unit 250a-d is movably arranged parallel to (or in) the y-direction on a respective rail unit 500a-d. The first spring arrangement of the transportation unit of the arrangement 100 comprises a plurality of first spring units 400a-d, wherein each first spring unit 400a-d is connected to a respective bogie unit 250a-d. The first spring arrangement is operable parallel to an x-direction, whereby the plurality of first spring units 400a-d is operable (oriented, aligned) parallel to (in) the x-direction. The first spring arrangement, via the first spring units 400a-d, is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit of the arrangement 100. The arrangement 100 further comprises a plurality of (here, four) second adjustment elements 620a-d coupled to a respective bogie unit 250a-d of the transportation unit sets 650a-d, wherein the second adjustment elements 620a-d merely are schematically indicated in Fig. 5 due to their extension in the z-direction. The second adjustment elements 620a-d are configured to adjust a positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction. It will be appreciated that the (part of the) arrangement 100 as exemplified in Fig. 5 comprises four transportation unit sets 650a-d. Each transportation unit set 650a-d comprises one rail unit of the plurality of rails units 500a-d, one bogie unit of the plurality of bogie units 250a-d, and one first spring unit of the plurality of first spring units 400a-d, wherein the transportation units 650a-d are separately arranged and spaced apart from each other. According to the example of the (part of the) arrangement 100 in Fig. 5, there is a first pair 700 of (the) transportation unit sets 650a, 650b, and a second pair 710 of (the) transportation unit sets 650c, 650d. The first pair 700 of transportation unit sets and the second pair 710 of transportation unit sets are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder (not shown) in relation to a direction of movement of the pressure cylinder to the first location from the second location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively. The first pair 700 of transportation unit sets 650a, 650b constitutes the front pair 700 of transportation unit sets, whereas the second pair 710 of transportation unit sets 650c, 650d constitutes the rear (back) pair 710 of transportation unit sets. Here, the rail units 500a, 500b of the first pair 700 of transportation unit sets 650a, 650b are separated by a first distance, DI, perpendicular to the direction of extension (i.e. the y-direction) of the rail units 500a, 500b, and the rail units 500c, 500d of the second pair 710 of transportation unit sets 650c, 650d are separated by a second distance, D2, perpendicular to the direction of extension (i.e. the y- direction) of the rail units 500c, 500d, wherein D2 > DI. In Fig. 5, the x-direction and the y- direction may extend in a horizontal plane, whereby the arrangement 100 is arranged to transport the pressure cylinder between the first location and second location in the horizontal plane.

[0070] In Fig. 5, the arrangement 100 may further comprise a second spring arrangement (not indicated) which is operable parallel to a z-direction, perpendicular to the x- direction, wherein the second spring arrangement is connected to the bogie arrangement. More specifically, the second spring arrangement may comprise a second spring unit connected to the bogie unit 250c and a second spring unit connected to the bogie unit 250d of the rear (back) pair 710 of transportation unit sets. The second spring arrangement is hereby arranged to mitigate, or even prevent, a gliding of the bogie arrangement on the rail units 500c, 500d rear (back) pair 710 of the transportation unit sets.

[0071] Fig. 6a is a schematic view of a cross-section of a rear first transportation unit set 650x of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that the arrangement may further comprise a first pair of first transportation unit sets, which are not shown in Fig. 6a. More specifically, the first pair of first transportation unit sets and the rear first transportation unit set 650x of the arrangement may be arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder in relation to a direction of movement of the pressure cylinder to the first location from the second location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively. Hence, of the three (first) transportation unit sets of the exemplifying arrangement, only the rear (first) transportation unit set 650x is shown in Fig. 6a. The rail unit 500x of the rear first transportation unit set 650x extends parallel to a y- direction, perpendicular to the x-direction. The first spring unit 400x of the rear first transportation unit set 650x comprises two springs 405a, 405b operable in the x-direction, wherein the two springs 405a, 405b are arranged on opposite sides of the rail unit 500x in a x / y-plane.

[0072] Figs. 6b and 6c are schematic views of a rear first transportation unit set 650x of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. It is referred to Fig. 6a for references of the components of the rear first transportation unit set 650x.

[0073] Fig. 7a is a schematic section view of a transportation unit set 650b of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The transportation unit set 650b of Fig. 7a corresponds to the transportation unit set 650b of Fig. 5. The view of the transportation unit set 650b is seen in a plane parallel to the x / z-plane. The transportation unit set 650b comprises one bogie unit 250b of the plurality of bogie units, wherein the bogie unit 250b is movably arranged parallel to (or in) the y-direction on a rail unit (not shown) of the transportation unit set 650b. The transportation unit set 650b further comprises a first spring unit 400b of the plurality of first spring units, wherein the first spring unit 400b is operable parallel to the x-direction. The arrangement comprises a first adjustment element 610b coupled to the first spring unit 400b of the first spring arrangement, wherein the first adjustment element 610b is configured to adjust the first spring unit 400b of the first spring arrangement. The transportation unit set 650b further comprises a plurality of wheels 630b arranged to engage and roll on the rail unit. The plurality of wheels 630b may preferably be four, but the number of wheels may alternatively be 8 or 16. The plurality of wheels 630 may comprise e.g. 4, 8 or 16 wheels, i.e. a multiple of a factor two (2Xwheels, wherein x=2, 3,

[0074] 4, . . .). A second adjustment element 620b, coupled to the bogie unit 250b, extends parallel to (in) the z-direction, and is configured to adjust a positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction.

[0075] Fig. 7b is a schematic view of a transportation unit set 650b of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The transportation unit set 650b of Fig. 7b corresponds to the transportation unit set 650b of Fig. 5 and Fig. 7a. The transportation unit 650b comprises a bogie unit 250b movably arranged parallel to (or in) the y-direction on a rail unit (not shown), a first spring unit 400b, a plurality of wheels 630b arranged to engage and roll on the rail unit, and a second adjustment element 620b coupled to the bogie unit 250b. The transportation unit set 650b further comprises a plurality of wheels 635 (only one wheel visible in Fig. 7b) operable in the z-direction (e.g. vertically operable). The plurality of wheels 635 may, for example, comprise two wheels. The plurality of wheels 635 may preferably comprise e.g. 2, 4 or 8 wheels, i.e. a multiple of a factor two (2Xwheels, wherein x=l, 2, 3...).

[0076] Fig. 8 is a schematic section view of a transportation unit set 650a of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The transportation unit set 650a of Fig. 8 corresponds to the transportation unit set 650a of Fig. 5. The view of the transportation unit set 650a is seen in a plane parallel to the x / y-plane. The transportation unit set 650a comprises one rail unit 500a of the plurality of rails units 500a-d, aligned along the y-direction. The transportation unit set 650a further comprises one bogie unit 250a of the plurality of bogie units, wherein the bogie unit 250a is movably arranged on the rail unit 500a along the rail unit 500a in the y-direction. The transportation unit set 650a further comprises a first spring unit 400a of the plurality of first spring units, wherein the first spring unit 400a is operable parallel to the x-direction. Hence, the first spring unit 400a extends in parallel to the x-direction. The transportation unit set 650a further comprises a plurality of (here, four) wheels 630a arranged to engage and roll on the rail unit 500a.

[0077] Fig. 9a is a schematic view in a cross-section of a transportation unit set 650d of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The transportation unit set 650d of Fig. 9a corresponds to the transportation unit set 650d of Fig.

[0078] 5. The transportation unit set 650d comprises a bogie unit 250d movably arranged parallel to (or in) the y-direction on a rail unit (not shown) of the transportation unit set, and a first spring unit 400d. The arrangement comprises a first adjustment element 610d coupled to the first spring unit 400d of the first spring arrangement, wherein the first adjustment element 610d is configured to adjust the first spring unit 400d of the first spring arrangement. The transportation unit set 650d further comprises a plurality of wheels 630d arranged to engage and roll on the rail unit. The first spring unit 400d of the transportation unit set 650d, which is operable parallel to the x-direction, is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie unit 250d of the transportation unit set 650d. More specifically, at a displacement of the of the pressure cylinder (not shown) in the negative x direction, the first spring unit 400d applies a force on an upper bracket of the bogie unit 250d, whereby the pressure cylinder is movable in the (positive) x direction until it reaches the equilibrium position in x=0. In contrast, in a displacement of the pressure cylinder in the positive x-direction, the bracket is (freely) movable without being affected (biased) by the first spring unit 400d. The transportation unit set 650d further comprises a second spring arrangement which is operable parallel to a z- direction, perpendicular to the x-direction. The second spring arrangement comprises a pair of second spring units 600a, 600b connected to the bogie unit 250d, wherein the second spring arrangement is arranged to mitigate, or even prevent, a gliding of the bogie unit 250d on a rail unit of the transportation unit set 650d. The transportation unit set 650d further comprises a second adjustment element 620d coupled to the bogie unit 250d of the transportation unit set 650d. The second adjustment element 620d is configured to adjust a positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction. The second spring arrangement may be relatively weak, i.e. the pair of second spring units 600a, 600b may have a relatively small spring constant k such that the spring arrangement may saturate in case of correct adjustment of the second adjustment element 620d at the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, in the first location, corresponds to the mounting position according to Fig. 1.

[0079] Fig. 9b is a schematic view of a transportation unit set 650d of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. It is referred to Fig. 9a for references of components of the transportation unit set 650d and / or for an increased understanding of the transportation unit set 650d.

[0080] Fig. 9b is a schematic view of a transportation unit set 650d of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The transportation unit set 650d of Fig. 9b corresponds to the transportation unit set 650d of Fig. 5 and Fig. 9a. The transportation unit 650d comprises a bogie unit 250d movably arranged on a rail unit (not shown), a first spring unit 400d, a plurality of wheels 63 Od arranged to engage and roll on the rail unit, a second spring arrangement 600 comprising a pair of second spring units connected to the bogie unit 250d, and a second adjustment element 620d coupled to the bogie unit 250d. The transportation unit set 650d further comprises a plurality of wheels 635 (only one wheel visible in Fig. 9b) operable in the z-direction (e.g. vertically operable). The plurality of wheels 635 may, for example, comprise two wheels. The plurality of wheels 635 may preferably comprise e.g. 2, 4 or 8 wheels, i.e. a multiple of a factor two (2Xwheels, wherein x=l, 2, 3. . .).

[0081] Fig. 10 is a schematic view of a transportation unit set 650d of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. It is referred to Fig. 9a and / or 9b for references of components of the transportation unit set 650d and / or for an increased understanding of the transportation unit set 650d.

[0082] Fig. 11 is a schematic view of a cross-section of the transportation unit set 650d as exemplified in Fig 10. It should be noted that some references of the transportation unit set 650d in Fig. 11 are not present compared to references of the transportation unit set 650d of Fig. 9b, and it is referred to Fig. 9b for further (component) references of the transportation unit 650d. In addition to the plurality of wheels 630d operable in the y- direction (e.g horizontally operable), the transportation unit set 650d of Fig. 11 discloses a plurality of wheels 635 operable in the z-direction (e.g vertically operable).

[0083] Fig. 12 is a schematic view in a cross-section of a transportation unit set 650c of an arrangement according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The transportation unit set 650c of Fig. 12 corresponds to the transportation unit set 650c of Fig. 5. The transportation unit set 650c comprises one rail unit 500c, one bogie unit 250c movably arranged on the rail unit 500c (i.e. that the bogie unit 250c is movable along the elongation of the rail unit 500c in the y-direction), and a first spring unit 400c. The transportation unit set 650c further comprises a plurality of wheels 630c arranged to engage and roll on the rail unit 500c. The first spring unit 400c of the transportation unit set 650c, which is operable parallel to the x-direction (i.e. extends in the x-direction), is pre-stressed (biased) against an abutment 410. No force(s) will be exerted on the transportation unit set 650c from the first spring unit 400c before (without) any displacement of the pressure cylinder in the x-direction, as the force(s) between the first spring unit 400c and the abutment 410 is (are) internal. Upon a displacement of the pressure cylinder in the x-direction, the first spring unit 400c is arranged to forcibly bias the bogie unit 250c of the transportation unit set 650c. More specifically, at a displacement of the pressure cylinder in the positive x-direction, the first spring unit 400c will exert a resulting force, F, on the upper bracket of the transportation unit set 650c. In contrast, at a displacement of the pressure cylinder in the negative x-direction, the upper bracket of the transportation unit set 650c will be able to move (freely), without being subjected to any exerted force from the first spring unit 400c. The resulting force, F, from the first spring unit 400c, on the transportation unit set 650c at pressure cylinder displacement in the positive x direction, is schematically indicated in Fig. 12. As a consequence of this force, F, from the first spring unit 400c, a gap (distance), d, between elements (components, blocks) of the bogie unit 250c, is variable. The transportation unit set 650c further comprises a second spring arrangement 600 which is operable parallel to a z-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction. The second spring arrangement 600 comprises a pair of second spring units 600a, 600b connected to the bogie unit 250c. The second spring arrangement 600 mitigates, or even prevents, a gliding of the bogie unit 250c on the rail unit 500c of the transportation unit set 650c. At the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder in the first location, corresponding to the mounting position, the weight of the pressure cylinder is distributed on the bogie units of the bogie arrangement, and the second spring arrangement 600 saturates.

[0084] Fig. 13 is a schematic view of a method 1000 according to an exemplifying embodiment of the present invention. The method 1000 is provided for positioning a pressure cylinder of a press apparatus in a mounting position for mounting of at least one of a first end closure for closure of a first end of the pressure cylinder and a second end closure for closure of a second end of the pressure cylinder, opposite the first end, via an arrangement. The arrangement comprises a transportation unit comprising a bogie arrangement, a first spring arrangement, operable parallel to an x-direction, and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit. The method 1000 comprises the step of transporting 1010 the pressure cylinder, via the transportation unit, to a first location 300 comprising the mounting position, from a second location 310 separated from the first location, and from the first location 300 to the second location 310, respectively. The method 1000 further comprises the step of positioning 1020, via the first spring arrangement, the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, in the first location 300, corresponds to the mounting position.

[0085] While the present invention has been illustrated in the appended drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration is to be considered illustrative or exemplifying and not restrictive. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the appended claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article ”a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An arrangement (100) for positioning of a pressure cylinder (110) of a press apparatus in a mounting position (130) for mounting of at least one of a first end closure (140) for closure of a first end (150) of the pressure cylinder and a second end closure (160) for closure of a second end (170) of the pressure cylinder, opposite the first end, wherein the arrangement comprises a transportation unit (200) comprising a bogie arrangement (250) arranged to transport the pressure cylinder to a first location (300) comprising the mounting position, from a second location (310) separated from the first location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively, wherein the transportation unit further comprises a first spring arrangement (400), operable parallel to an x-direction, and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit, wherein the first spring arrangement is arranged to position the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, in the first location, corresponds to the mounting position.

2. The arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the transportation unit further comprises a second spring arrangement (600), operable parallel to a z-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the second spring arrangement is connected to the bogie arrangement.

3. The arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transportation unit comprises a plurality of rail units (500a-d), the bogie arrangement comprises a plurality of bogie units (250a-d), wherein each bogie unit is movably arranged on a respective rail unit, and the first spring arrangement comprises a plurality of first spring units (400a-d), wherein each first spring unit is connected to a respective bogie unit.

4. The arrangement according to claim 2 and 3, wherein the second spring arrangement comprises a plurality of second spring units (600a, 600b), wherein each second spring unit is connected to a respective bogie unit.

5. The arrangement according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the plurality of rail units extends parallel to a y-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction.

6. The arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the x-direction and the y- direction extend in a horizontal plane, and wherein the arrangement is arranged to transport the pressure cylinder between the first location and second location in the horizontal plane.

7. The arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one first adjustment element (610a-d) coupled to the first spring arrangement, wherein the at least one first adjustment element is configured to adjust the the first spring arrangement.

8. The arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one second adjustment element (620a-d) coupled to the bogie arrangement and operable parallel to a z-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the at least one second adjustment element is configured to adjust a positioning of the pressure cylinder parallel to the z-direction.

9. The arrangement according to any one of claims 3-6, further comprising a plurality of transportation unit sets (650a-d), wherein at least a first transportation unit set of the plurality of transportation unit sets comprises one rail unit of the plurality of rails units, one bogie unit of the plurality of bogie units, and one first spring unit of the plurality of first spring units, wherein the transportation unit sets are separately arranged and spaced apart from each other.

10. The arrangement according to claim 4 and 9, wherein at least a second transportation unit set of the transportation unit sets comprises one rail unit of the plurality of rails units, one bogie unit of the plurality of bogie units, one first spring unit of the plurality of first spring units, and one second spring unit of the plurality of second spring units, wherein the transportation unit sets are separately arranged and spaced apart from each other.

11. The arrangement according to claim 9 and 10, comprising a first pair (700) of first transportation unit sets, anda second pair (710) of second transportation unit sets, wherein the first pair of first transportation unit sets and the second pair of second transportation unit sets are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder in relation to a direction of movement of the pressure cylinder to the first location from the second location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively.

12. The arrangement according to claim 9, comprising a first pair (700) of first transportation unit sets, and a rear (650x) first transportation unit set, wherein the first pair of first transportation unit sets and the rear first transportation unit set are arranged on either side of the pressure cylinder in relation to a direction of movement of the pressure cylinder to the first location from the second location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively, wherein the rail unit of the rear first transportation unit set extends parallel to a y-direction, perpendicular to the x-direction, wherein the first spring unit of the rear first transportation unit set comprises two springs (405a, 405b) arranged on opposite sides of the rail unit in a plane parallel to the x- direction and the y-direction.

13. A system, comprising a press apparatus (120) for processing at least one article, wherein the press apparatus comprises a pressure cylinder (110) for holding the at least one article, wherein the pressure cylinder comprises a first end (150), and a second end (170), opposite the first end, a first end closure (140) for closure of the first end of the pressure cylinder, and a second end closure (160) for closure of the second end of the pressure cylinder, and an arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the press apparatus is horizontally arranged, whereby the pressure cylinder extends horizontally.

15. A method (1000) for positioning a pressure cylinder (110) of a press apparatus in a mounting position (130) for mounting of at least one of a first end closure (140) for closure of a first end (150) of the pressure cylinder and a second end closure (160) for closure of a second end (170) of the pressure cylinder, opposite the first end, via an arrangement comprising a transportation unit (200) comprising a bogie arrangement (250),a first spring arrangement (400), operable parallel to an x-direction, and arranged to forcibly bias the bogie arrangement of the transportation unit wherein the method comprises the steps of transporting (1010) the pressure cylinder, via the transportation unit, to a first location (300) comprising the mounting position, from a second location (310) separated from the first location, and from the first location to the second location, respectively, and positioning (1020), via the first spring arrangement, the pressure cylinder in an equilibrium position, wherein the equilibrium position of the pressure cylinder, in the first location, corresponds to the mounting position.

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