Transfer device

Abstract

This transfer device comprises: an alpha port assembly mounted on a mounting wall that partitions a transfer space; and a beta port assembly which is detachably coupled to the alpha port assembly and has a chamber space, and is configured to connect the chamber space and the transfer space according to an operation of the alpha port assembly. The alpha port assembly includes: an alpha flange fixed to the mounting wall and forming an alpha port opening; and an alpha door configured to open and close the alpha port opening. The beta port assembly includes: a beta body detachably coupled to the alpha flange and having a beta port opening connected to the chamber space; and a beta door that opens and closes the beta port opening and corresponds to the alpha door. The alpha flange includes a coupling pin that protrudes toward the beta port assembly, and the beta port assembly includes: a coupling constraint part that is provided in the beta body and operates so as to be selectively constrained to the coupling pin; and a coupling control part that is disposed adjacent to the coupling constraint part and controls the operation of the coupling constraint part.

Description

transport device

[0001] The present invention relates to a transport device, and more particularly, to a transport device with an improved structure.

[0002] Aseptic transport is commonly used in the medical, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and food industries. In the field of aseptic transport, the contents of a container must be transferred to another container or space in an aseptic environment to prevent contamination.

[0003] Transport devices capable of ensuring such aseptic transport have been developed, but the locking and joining devices are very complexly configured to ensure an aseptic environment, and there is a risk that the interior of the container will be exposed to the external environment due to such a complex configuration.

[0004] One aspect of the present invention provides a transport device with an improved structure.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention provides a transport device with a simplified coupling structure.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides a transport device with improved durability.

[0007] A transport device according to the invention comprises: an alpha port assembly installed on an installation wall that divides a transport space; a beta port assembly detachably coupled to the alpha port assembly, the beta port assembly having a chamber space and configured to connect the chamber space and the transport space according to the operation of the alpha port assembly; wherein the alpha port assembly comprises: an alpha flange fixed to the installation wall and forming an alpha port opening; an alpha door configured to open and close the alpha port opening; wherein the beta port assembly comprises: a beta body detachably coupled to the alpha flange and having a beta port opening connected to the chamber space; a beta door corresponding to the alpha door that opens and closes the beta port opening; wherein the alpha flange comprises a coupling pin protruding toward the beta port assembly; and wherein the beta port assembly comprises: a coupling restraint provided on the beta body and operating to be selectively restrained by the coupling pin; It includes a coupling control unit that is arranged adjacent to the coupling restraint unit and controls the operation of the coupling restraint unit.

[0008] The above-mentioned coupling restraint unit includes a coupling boss forming a coupling space; a plurality of coupling balls arranged in the coupling space, the plurality of coupling balls operating in a binding state that restricts movement of the coupling pin and a releasing state in which the coupling pin is released from the binding state; and the coupling control unit may be configured to selectively apply a magnetic force to the plurality of coupling balls so that they move between the binding state and the releasing state.

[0009] The above beta port assembly includes a handle part provided on the beta body and rotatable from the beta body, the handle part having the coupling control part mounted thereon; and the control of the coupling control part for the plurality of coupling balls can be configured to be linked with the rotational motion of the handle part.

[0010] The above handle part operates in a first state and a second state lying down from the first state, and the coupling control part can be operated so that the magnetic influence on the coupling restraint part changes according to the operation of the first and second states.

[0011] The above-mentioned coupling control unit can operate in the released state when the handle unit is in the first state, and can operate in the restrained state when the handle unit is in the second state.

[0012] The above-mentioned coupling restraint may include an elastic member configured to maintain the plurality of coupling balls in the restraint state when the handle portion is in the second state.

[0013] The above beta port assembly operates in a coupled state in which it is coupled to the alpha port assembly, and a detached state in which it is detached from the alpha port assembly; the alpha port assembly includes a rotation coupling unit configured to be rotatable around the alpha port opening of the alpha flange; and the coupled state may include a first coupled state in which the coupling pin is fixed to the coupling restraint; and a second coupled state in which the beta body is brought into close contact with the alpha flange by rotation of the rotation coupling unit.

[0014] The above first coupling state and the above second coupling state can be formed sequentially.

[0015] The above-mentioned rotation coupling unit includes: a ring-shaped unit body; a plurality of restraining members provided on the unit body, the plurality of restraining members being spaced apart from each other along the unit body; and the beta body may include a plurality of body wing parts configured to be pressed toward the alpha flange by the plurality of restraining members according to the rotation of the rotation coupling unit.

[0016] The above alpha door includes an alpha door body; a door coupling unit that is provided to face the beta door in the alpha door body and is rotatably provided, and a door coupling unit that selectively restrains the beta door; and the beta port assembly can be switched from the second coupled state to a door openable state in which the alpha door and the beta door can be opened by a restraining operation of the door coupling unit.

[0017] The door engaging unit may include a plurality of door engaging members that protrude in a radial direction, the plurality of door engaging members being spaced apart from each other along the periphery of the door engaging unit; and the beta door may include a beta door engaging part that forms a seating space into which the plurality of door engaging members are inserted, the beta door engaging part having a plurality of door wing parts that are configured to be respectively caught by the plurality of door engaging members according to the rotation of the door engaging unit.

[0018] The above alpha port assembly may further include an alpha door handle portion provided on the other side of the alpha door body, the alpha door handle portion controlling the operation of the door engagement unit; a coupling safety device provided on the alpha door to selectively restrict the operation of the alpha door handle portion, the coupling safety device releasing the restriction on the alpha door handle portion when in the second engagement state;

[0019] The above-described coupling safety device may include: a reference arm that rotates around an axis; an alpha protrusion arm configured to be raised and lowered according to the rotation of the reference arm at one end of the reference arm, the alpha protrusion arm restraining the movement of the alpha handle portion; and a beta protrusion arm configured to be raised and lowered at the other end of the reference arm, the beta protrusion arm being pressed by the beta door when the beta port assembly is in the second coupled state to release restraint of the alpha protrusion arm with respect to the alpha handle portion.

[0020] When the above beta port assembly is in the door-openable state, the beta door can be bound to the alpha door so that it can be opened together with the alpha door.

[0021] The above beta door is magnetically coupled to the beta body, but can be separated from the beta body when the beta port opening is opened by the alpha door.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present invention, the structure of the transport device is improved so that the alpha port assembly and the beta port assembly of the transport device can be closely coupled and operated.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present invention, a safety device is provided before the door is opened to prevent the object to be transported from being contaminated by the external environment due to malfunction.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, by sequentially configuring the coupling structure and limiting the progress to the next operation when some couplings are omitted, the object to be transported can be transported in a safer environment.

[0025] Figures 1 to 3 are drawings of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating an alpha port assembly and a beta port assembly of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 6 is a drawing of a first coupling state of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 7 is a drawing of a coupling safety device of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a drawing of a second coupling state of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of Fig. 8.

[0032] Figure 10 is a drawing of a door-openable state of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 11 is a drawing of a door coupling unit and a beta door of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig. 12 is a drawing regarding the door opening state of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosed invention, and there may be various modified examples that can replace the embodiments and drawings of this specification at the time of filing of this application.

[0036] Additionally, the same reference numbers or symbols presented in each drawing of this specification represent parts or components that perform substantially the same function.

[0037] In addition, the terminology used in this specification is used to describe embodiments and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the disclosed invention. The singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprises" or "has" and the like are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0038] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers such as “first,” “second,” etc. used herein may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms, and the terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may also be referred to as the first component. The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related listed items or any item among a plurality of related listed items.

[0039] Additionally, terms such as "~part", "~device", "~block", "~absence", and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may refer to at least one hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) / ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one software stored in a memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the contents of the invention described above, serve to further understand the technical concept of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to matters described in such drawings.

[0041] Figures 1 to 3 are drawings of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] The transport device (1) can be configured to transport the transport target (hereinafter referred to as “target”) to another space without being exposed to the external environment and while maintaining a set environment. The set environment may include an aseptic environment.

[0043] The transport device (1) may include an alpha port assembly (10) and a beta port assembly (60). The beta port assembly (60) may operate in a separated state (A1) in which it is separated from the alpha port assembly (10) and in a coupled state (A2) in which it is coupled to the alpha port assembly (10). In addition, the beta port assembly (60) may operate in a door-openable state (A3) in which the beta door (96) is coupled to the alpha door (40) in the coupled state (A2), and in a door-opened state (A4) in which the beta door (96) is opened by the alpha door (40).

[0044] The coupled state (A2) may include a first coupled state (A2a) in which the coupled restraint (80) and the coupled pin (20) are coupled, as described later, and a second coupled state (A2b) in which the beta body (70) is brought into close contact with the alpha flange (12) by the rotation of the rotating coupled unit (24). The configuration and operation of the coupled state (A2) will be described in detail later.

[0045] The beta port assembly (60) may be configured so as not to rotate with respect to the alpha port assembly (10) from the first engagement state (A2a) to the door open state (A4). That is, from the first engagement state (A2a) to the door open state (A4), the beta body (70) of the beta port assembly (60) may be configured so as to face or contact the flange joint (18) of the alpha port assembly (10), and the beta door (96) of the beta port assembly (60) may be configured so as to face or contact the alpha door (40) of the alpha port assembly (10). In this way, the beta port assembly (60) does not rotate with respect to the alpha port assembly (10) and maintains a close contact state, thereby maintaining the tightness and sealing between the alpha port assembly (10) and the beta port assembly (60), and maintaining the environment of the transfer space (10a) and the chamber space (63).

[0046] In addition, since the beta port assembly (60) is coupled and opened without rotating relative to the alpha port assembly (10), docking and mounting of the beta port assembly (60) relative to the alpha port assembly (10) becomes convenient, and convenience in operation can be improved.

[0047] The alpha port assembly (10) can be installed on an installation wall (W) that divides a transport space (10a). The alpha port assembly (10) is fixed to the installation wall (W), but is configured so that the outside and inside of the installation wall (W) are spatially divided when in a sealed state, thereby maintaining the environment of the transport space (10a).

[0048] The beta port assembly (60) can be detachably coupled to the alpha port assembly (10). The beta port assembly (60) can form a chamber space (63), and can be configured such that the chamber space (63) and the transfer space (10a) are connected according to the operation of the alpha port assembly (10) while being coupled to the alpha port assembly (10).

[0049] The alpha port assembly (10) may include an alpha flange (12) and an alpha door (40).

[0050] The alpha flange (12) may be configured in a roughly circular shape and may include an alpha port opening forming portion (14, see FIG. 4) forming an alpha port opening (14a, see FIG. 4) on the inside thereof.

[0051] The alpha door (40) can be configured to open and close the alpha port opening (14a). The alpha door (40) is rotatably coupled to the alpha flange (12), thereby being operable to open or close the alpha port opening (14a). The alpha door (40) cannot be opened independently, and can be opened together with the beta door (96) after a coupling operation with the beta door (96) is performed, as will be described later.

[0052] An alpha door (40) may include an alpha door body (42) and an alpha door handle portion (44). The alpha door body (42) may be configured to rotate about an alpha flange (12) with a hinge portion (43) as the center. The alpha door handle portion (44) is formed on one surface of the alpha door body (42), so that an opening and closing operation of the alpha door body (42) can be performed.

[0053] The alpha door handle part (44) may be configured to rotate around the central axis (C) of the alpha door (40). The rotation of the alpha door handle part (44) may be configured to be linked with the rotation of the door coupling unit (50) described later.

[0054] The alpha door handle part (44) may include a rotation guide (45) and a handle extension member (46). The handle extension member (46) may be configured to rotate together with the rotation of the alpha door handle part (44). The rotation guide (45) may be provided on the rotation path of the handle extension member (46) and configured to limit the rotation angle of the handle extension member (46). The rotation guide (45) may be formed in a roughly arc shape, and a stopper (45a) may be formed at one end and the other end of the arc to limit further movement of the handle extension member (46).

[0055] The beta port assembly (60) may include a beta body (70) and a beta door (96).

[0056] The beta body (70) can be detachably coupled to the alpha port assembly (10). The beta body (70) can be connected to a chamber (62) capable of accommodating an object. The chamber (62) can be detachably coupled to the beta body (70) as a separate structure from the beta body (70), or can be configured as an integral part of the beta body (70). The chamber (62) forms a chamber space (63) therein and can be configured to store or retain an object.

[0057] The beta body (70) may be formed in a roughly circular shape and may include a beta port opening forming portion (72, see FIGS. 6 and 12) forming a beta port opening (72a, see FIG. 12) on the inside thereof. The beta port opening (72a) may be connected to a chamber space (63).

[0058] The beta body (70) may include a body wing portion (74). The body wing portion (74) may be pressurized or restrained by a restraining member (30) of a rotation coupling unit (24) described later. The body wing portion (74) may be configured to protrude radially from the body of the beta body (70). A plurality of body wing portions (74) may be provided, and the plurality of body wing portions (74) may be configured to be spaced apart from each other.

[0059] The beta door (96) may be configured to open and close the beta port opening (72a). The beta door (96) may be configured to correspond to the alpha door (40). After the beta door (96) is coupled with the alpha door (40), it is separated from the beta body (70), and the beta port opening (72a) may be opened.

[0060] The beta door (96) may be configured to be magnetically coupled to the beta body (70). That is, the beta door (96) may be positioned in the beta port opening forming portion (72) of the beta body (70), and may be magnetically coupled to the beta body (70). Through this configuration, the mechanical coupling structure may be minimized, thereby improving the sealing between the beta door (96) and the beta body (70).

[0061] The beta body (70) may include a beta door stopper (95, see Figs. 11 and 12) formed to protrude in a portion adjacent to the beta port opening forming portion (72). The beta door (96) may be restricted from excessive movement into the chamber space (63) by the beta door stopper (95), and may stably seal the beta port opening (72a).

[0062] The inner surface of the beta door (96) may be configured to face the chamber space (63), and the beta door (96) may include a beta door coupling portion (98) for coupling with the alpha door (40) on one side thereof. A mounting space (98a) into which a door coupling unit (50) of the alpha door (40) described later is inserted may be formed in the beta door coupling portion (98).

[0063] The beta door coupling portion (98) may include a door wing portion (99). The door wing portion (99) may be pressed or restrained by a door restraining member (54) of a door coupling unit (50) described later. The door wing portion (99) may be formed to protrude from the beta door coupling portion (98) toward a mounting space (98a). A plurality of door wing portions (99) may be provided, and the plurality of door wing portions (99) may be configured to be spaced apart from each other.

[0064] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an alpha port assembly and a beta port assembly of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a first coupled state of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] The alpha flange (12) may include a flange body (16) installed on an installation wall (W), and a flange joint (18) in which a beta port assembly (60) is installed and coupled on the inside of the flange body (16). The flange body (16) may include a first flange body (16a) provided on the inside of the installation wall (W) and exposed to the transfer space (10a), and a second flange body (16b) provided on the outside of the installation wall (W). The first and second flange bodies (16) may be connected to each other, and may be configured such that the installation wall (W) is inserted through an installation groove (16c) of a certain depth formed therebetween. Through this, the airtightness between the alpha flange (12) and the installation wall (W) may be maximized.

[0066] The flange joint (18) may be formed on the inside of the flange body (16). The alpha port opening (14a) described above may be formed in the flange joint (18), and an alpha door (40) for opening and closing the alpha port opening (14a) may be arranged.

[0067] The flange joint (18) may be configured to face the beta port assembly (60). Specifically, the flange joint (18) may include a joint surface facing one side of the beta body (70) of the beta port assembly (60). The joint surface of the flange joint (18) may be defined as a first joint surface (18a), and the side of the beta body (70) facing the first joint surface (18a) may be defined as a second joint surface (76).

[0068] The flange joint (18) may include a coupling pin (20). The coupling pin (20) may be coupled with the beta port assembly (60), so that the alpha port assembly (10) and the beta port assembly (60) may be in a first coupled state (A2a, see FIG. 8). The coupling pin (20) may be configured to protrude from the first coupling surface (18a). At least one coupling pin (20) may be provided. When a plurality of coupling pins (20) are arranged, they may be spaced apart from each other for stable coupling of the beta port assembly (60). Since the alpha port assembly (10) is formed in an approximately circular shape, specifically, a plurality of coupling pins (20) may be arranged at a constant interval from each other on the first coupling surface (18a) with the center point thereof as the center.

[0069] The coupling pin (20) is restrained by the coupling restraint member (80) of the beta port assembly (60) described later, thereby restricting the rotation of the beta port assembly (60) about the central axis (C) with respect to the alpha port assembly (10). That is, the coupling pin (20) can restrict the rotational motion of the beta port assembly (60). Through this, the adhesion and tightness between the first and second coupling surfaces (18a, 76) can be improved.

[0070] The beta port assembly (60) may include a coupling restraint unit (80) and a coupling control unit (90). The coupling restraint unit (80) and the coupling control unit (90) may be a component of the beta body (70).

[0071] The coupling restraint (80) can be operated to be selectively restrained to the coupling pin (20). That is, the coupling restraint (80) can be operated in a state where the alpha port assembly (10) is restrained or released from restraint with respect to the coupling pin (20).

[0072] The coupling control unit (90) may be arranged adjacent to the coupling restraint unit (80) and configured to control the operation of the coupling restraint unit (80). Through this, the beta port assembly (60) may be restrained or released from the coupling pin (20).

[0073] The coupling restraint (80) may include a coupling boss (82) and a plurality of coupling balls (84).

[0074] The coupling boss (82) can form a coupling space (82a) within which a plurality of coupling balls (84) to be described later can move. The coupling boss (82) can be formed to protrude toward one side of the beta body (70), and a pin penetration hole (83) can be formed on one side thereof to allow the coupling pin (20) to pass through. Specifically, the coupling boss (82) of the coupling restraint portion (80) can be configured to protrude from the side of the beta body (70).

[0075] The plurality of coupling balls (84) may be configured in the shape of balls. The plurality of coupling balls (84) may be configured to restrict the movement of the coupling pin (20) introduced through the pin penetration hole (83) by adjusting the distance between them. The plurality of coupling balls (84) may be configured to operate in a restraining state (84a) that restricts the movement of the coupling pin (20) and a releasing state (84b) that moves from the restraining state (84a) and releases the restraint on the coupling pin (20). When the plurality of coupling balls (84) are in the restraining state (84a), the movement of the coupling pin (20) can be restricted by applying pressure to the coupling pin (20) arranged between them.

[0076] The joint restraint (80) may include a moving guide (86) and an elastic member (88).

[0077] The movement guide (86) may be configured to guide the movement of the plurality of coupling balls (84). The movement guide (86) may be configured so that the plurality of coupling balls (84) are arranged with a narrow gap between them when they are in a restrained state (84a), and so that the plurality of coupling balls (84) are arranged with a wide gap between them when they are in a released state (84b). For this purpose, the movement guide (86) may be configured to have a shape roughly like a funnel. That is, since the plurality of coupling balls (84) are arranged adjacent to the pin penetration hole (83) of the coupling boss (82) when they are in a restrained state (84a), the movement guide (86) may be configured so that the cross-sectional area increases in the direction away from the pin penetration hole (83).

[0078] The elastic member (88) may be configured to pressurize the plurality of coupling balls (84) so ​​that the binding state (84a) is maintained when there is no external force on the plurality of coupling balls (84). Specifically, the plurality of coupling balls (84) may be elastically pressed so that the plurality of coupling balls (84) are maintained in the binding state (84a) before the plurality of coupling balls (84) are released (84b) by the magnetic portion described later. The elastic member (88) may be configured to directly pressurize the plurality of coupling balls (84) as shown in FIG. 6, but may also pressurize the plurality of coupling balls (84) by a separate member disposed on the upper surface of the plurality of coupling balls.

[0079] The coupling control unit (90) can control the plurality of coupling balls (84) to move between a binding state (84a) and a release state (84b). Specifically, the coupling control unit (90) can control the plurality of coupling balls (84) to move between a binding state (84a) and a release state (84b) by selectively applying a magnetic force to the plurality of coupling balls (84). The coupling control unit (90) can include a magnetic body that applies a magnetic force to the plurality of coupling balls (84).

[0080] In this embodiment, the coupling control unit (90) may be formed of a magnetic material, and the plurality of coupling balls (84) may be formed of a ferromagnetic metal or magnetic material. In addition, when the elastic member (88) elastically supports the plurality of coupling balls (84) by a separate member, the separate member may be formed of a ferromagnetic metal or magnetic material. In this case, the plurality of coupling balls (84) may be formed of a ferromagnetic metal.

[0081] The beta port assembly (60) may include a handle portion (92). The handle portion (92) may be a component of the beta body (70).

[0082] The handle portion (92) is configured to be rotatable relative to the beta body (70), and the coupling control portion (90) described above can be mounted. One side of the handle portion (92) can be arranged adjacent to the coupling restraint portion (80).

[0083] The handle part (92) may be provided to be rotatable around a rotary shaft (93) extending from the beta body (70). The handle part (92) includes a grip part (94) configured to be grippable, and the grip part (94) may be arranged on one side of the rotary shaft (93) and the engagement control part (90) may be arranged on the other side. Through this, the position of the engagement control part (90) may be changed by the rotation of the handle part (92) around the rotary shaft (93). Through this configuration, the control of the engagement control part (90) for a plurality of engagement balls (84) may be configured to be linked with the rotational operation of the handle part (92).

[0084] The handle portion (92) can operate in a first state (92a) that is configured to be grippable, and a second state (92b) that is tilted from the first state (92a). Referring to FIG. 6, the first state (92a) of the handle portion (92) is a state in which the handle portion (92) is erected at a 90-degree angle with respect to the second engagement surface (76) of the beta body (70), and the second state (92b) may mean a state tilted further than the first state (92a). However, the angles of the handle portion (92) in the first and second states (92a, 92b) are not limited. The first state (92a) of the handle portion (92) may be a position in which the engagement control portion (90) can apply a magnetic force to the plurality of engagement balls (84) so ​​that the plurality of engagement balls (84) are in a release state (84b). In addition, the second state (92b) of the handle portion (92) may mean a position where the magnetic influence of the coupling control portion (90) decreases as it moves away from the plurality of coupling balls (84), so that the plurality of coupling balls (84) can be in a locked state (84a). That is, the coupling control portion (90) can operate in a released state (84b) when the handle portion (92) is in the first state (92a), and can operate in a locked state (84a) when the handle portion (92) is in the second state (92b).

[0085] With this configuration, when the beta port assembly (60) is mounted on the alpha port assembly (10), the coupling pin (20) can be inserted through the pin penetration hole (83) of the coupling boss (82). Afterwards, when the handle part (92) is operated in the second state (92b), the magnetic influence of the coupling control part (90) on the plurality of coupling balls (84) is reduced, and the plurality of coupling balls (84) can be operated in a restraining state (84a) that restrains the coupling pin (20).

[0086] When the handle part (92) is operated from the second state (92b) to the first state (92a) for the beta port assembly (60) to be separated from the alpha port assembly (10), the magnetic influence of the coupling control part (90) on the plurality of coupling balls (84) increases, and the plurality of coupling balls (84) can be operated in a release state (84b) to release the restraint on the coupling pin (20). Thereafter, the beta port assembly (60) can be separated from the alpha port assembly (10).

[0087] FIG. 7 is a drawing of a coupling safety device of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] The alpha port assembly (10) may include a mating safety device (48). The mating safety device (48) may be configured to prevent the alpha door (40) from being opened even when the beta port assembly (60) is not mounted or mated to the alpha port assembly (10). The mating safety device (48) may be disposed on the alpha door (40) and may be an integral part of the alpha door (40). The mating safety device (48) may be disposed on a concave groove (42a) formed concavely from the inner side surface (40a) of the alpha door (40). The mating safety device (48) may operate in a handle-locking state (48a) and a handle-locking release state (48b).

[0089] The combination safety device (48) may include a reference arm (49a), an alpha protrusion arm (49b), and a beta protrusion arm (49c).

[0090] The reference arm (49a) may be configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis (49aa) within the concave groove (42a). The alpha protrusion arm (49b) and the beta protrusion arm (49c) may be connected to one end and the other end of the reference arm (49a), respectively. The alpha protrusion arm (49b) and the beta protrusion arm (49c) may be configured to be raised and lowered according to the rotation of the reference arm (49a). Specifically, when the coupling safety device (48) is in the handle-locked state (48a), the alpha protrusion arm (49b) and the beta protrusion arm (49c) may protrude from the door inner side (40a) and the door outer side (40b) of the alpha door (40), respectively. Conversely, when the combination safety device (48) is in the handle restraint release state (48b), the alpha protrusion arm (49b) and the beta protrusion arm (49c) can be inserted toward the inner side (40a) and outer side (40b) of the alpha door (40), respectively.

[0091] The alpha protrusion arm (49b) can be configured to protrude from the outer surface of the alpha door (40) through a through hole (40ba) formed through the alpha door (40). The alpha protrusion arm (49b) is provided to selectively restrain the handle extension member (46) of the alpha door handle portion (44) described above. An insertion hole (46a) into which the alpha protrusion arm (49b) is inserted is formed in the handle extension member (46), and the alpha protrusion arm (49b) can be inserted.

[0092] Specifically, when the combination safety device (48) is in the handle restraint state (48a), the alpha protrusion arm (49b) is inserted into the insertion hole (46a) of the handle extension member (46) to restrain the handle extension member (46), thereby limiting the rotation of the alpha door handle portion (44). In addition, when the combination safety device (48) is in the handle restraint release state (48b), the alpha protrusion arm (49b) is detached from the handle extension member (46), thereby releasing the rotation restriction on the alpha door handle portion (44).

[0093] The beta protrusion arm (49c) may be configured to protrude further than the inner side surface (40a) of the alpha door (40) toward the beta door (96). The beta protrusion arm (49c) may be pressed by the beta door (96) as the beta port assembly (60) is seated on the alpha port assembly (10). As the beta protrusion arm (49c) is pressed by the beta door (96), the beta protrusion arm (49c) is inserted further than the inner side surface (40a) of the alpha door (40), and the engagement safety device (48) may operate from a handle-restricted state (48a) to a handle-released state (48b).

[0094] Fig. 8 is a drawing regarding a second coupling state of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of Fig. 8. Fig. 9 (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of Fig. 8 (a), and Fig. 9 (b) is a cross-sectional view of a portion corresponding to line A-A' of Fig. 8 (b).

[0095] The alpha port assembly (10) may include a rotation coupling unit (24). The rotation coupling unit (24) may be provided to be rotatable around the alpha port opening (14a). The rotation coupling unit (24) may be operated after a first coupling state (A2a) is formed by the coupling restraint (80) and the coupling pin (20). The rotation coupling unit (24) may position the beta port assembly (60) in a second coupling state (A2b) by bringing the beta body (70) into close contact with the alpha flange (12) by rotation. That is, the second coupling state (A2b) by the rotation coupling unit (24) may be sequentially formed after the first coupling state (A2a) is formed. The rotary coupling unit (24) can operate the beta port assembly (60) in a disengaged position (24a) in the first coupled state (A2a) and in a coupled position (24b) in the second coupled state (A2b).

[0096] The rotating coupling unit (24) may include a unit body (26) and a body handle portion (34).

[0097] The unit body (26) may be formed in a roughly circular shape. The unit body (26) includes a body guide hole (27) formed on the body of the unit body (26), and may be configured such that a protruding guide (22) protruding from the alpha port assembly (10) is inserted therein. A plurality of body guide holes (27) and protruding guides (22) may be provided, and may be spaced apart from each other. The body guide hole (27) may be formed in an arc shape along the body of the unit body (26). Through this configuration, the unit body (26) may be configured to be rotatable with respect to the center point of the alpha port assembly (10).

[0098] The body handle portion (34) can be configured to extend from the unit body (26). The body handle portion (34) is configured to be grippable, and the body handle portion (34) can move between a first position (34a) and a second position (34b) rotated from the first position (34a). As the body handle portion (34) rotates between the first and second positions (34a, 34b), the unit body (26) is also guided by the protruding guide (22) to rotate, so that the rotation coupling unit (24) can operate between the disengagement position (24a) and the engagement position (24b).

[0099] The unit body (26) may include a body insertion groove (28). The body insertion groove (28) may be formed concavely from the inner surface of the unit body (26). The body insertion groove (28) may be configured so that the body wing portion (74) of the beta body (70) passes through it. In the process of mounting the beta port assembly (60) to the alpha port assembly (10), the body wing portion (74) of the beta body (70) may pass through the body insertion groove (28) and be located in the insertion space (33) inside the restraining member (30) described later.

[0100] The unit body (26) may include a restraining member (30) that pressurizes or restrains the body wing portion (74) of the beta body (70). A plurality of restraining members (30) may be provided, and may be spaced apart from each other along the unit body (26). The plurality of restraining members (30) may be configured to pressurize or restrain the plurality of body wing portions (74) to the alpha flange (12), respectively.

[0101] The restraint member (30) may be configured to be spaced apart from the first coupling surface (18a) by a certain distance. Specifically, the restraint member (30) may be spaced apart from the first coupling surface (18a) of the flange coupling portion (18) to form an insertion space (33) in which the body wing portion (74) of the beta body (70) can be positioned.

[0102] The restraint member (30) is arranged adjacent to the body insertion groove (28) of the unit body (26) so as to restrain the body wing portion (74) of the beta body (70) inserted into the insertion space (33) through the body insertion groove (28). The restraint member (30) may be formed integrally with the unit body (26). By pressurizing or restraining the body wing portion (74) by the restraint member (30), the beta port assembly (60) in the first engagement state (A2a) can be converted to the second engagement state (A2b).

[0103] The restraint member (30) may be configured to pressurize or restrain the body wing portion (74) of the beta body (70) located in the insertion space (33). Specifically, when the rotation coupling unit (24) moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position, the restraint member (30) may slide its rear surface relative to the rear surface of the body wing portion (74). When the rotation coupling unit (24) is in the engaged position, the restraint member (30) may be configured to cover at least a portion of the body wing portion (74). Through this, the restraint member (30) may limit the movement of the body wing portion (74) with respect to the separation direction of the beta port assembly (60).

[0104] The restraint member (30) may include a pressure inclined surface (32) configured to be inclined on its back surface to pressurize the body wing portion (74). The pressure inclined surface (32) may press or bring the body wing portion (74) and the beta port assembly (60) into close contact with the first engaging surface (18a) of the alpha port assembly (10) during the process of sliding relative to the front surface of the body wing portion (74).

[0105] FIG. 10 is a drawing of a door-openable state of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a drawing of a door coupling unit and a beta door of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention. The description will be made with reference to the preceding drawings.

[0106] The alpha door (40) may include a door coupling unit (50). The door coupling unit (50) may be configured to rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the alpha door handle portion (44).

[0107] The door coupling unit (50) may include a door insertion groove (52). The door insertion groove (52) may be formed concavely from the outer surface of the door coupling unit (50). The door insertion groove (52) may be configured so that the door wing part (99) of the beta door (96) passes through it. In the process of mounting the beta port assembly (60) to the alpha port assembly (10), the door wing part (99) of the beta door (96) may pass through the door insertion groove (52) and be positioned in the door wing part insertion space (55) inside the door restraint member (54) described later.

[0108] The door coupling unit (50) may include a door restraint member (54) that pressurizes or restrains the door wing portion (99) of the beta door (96).

[0109] The door restraint member (54) may be configured to be spaced apart from the inner surface of the alpha door (40) by a certain distance. Specifically, the door restraint member (54) may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the alpha door (40) to form a door wing insertion space (55) so that the door wing (99) of the beta door (96) can be positioned.

[0110] The door restraint member (54) is arranged adjacent to the door insertion groove (52) of the door coupling unit (50), and can restrain the door wing part (99) of the beta door (96) inserted into the insertion space (33) through the door insertion groove (52). The door restraint member (54) can be formed integrally with the door coupling unit (50). The door restraint member (54) can switch the beta port assembly (60) in the second coupling state (A2b) to the door-openable state (A3) by pressurizing or restraining the door wing part (99).

[0111] The door restraint member (54) may be configured to pressurize or restrain the door wing portion (99) of the beta door (96) located in the insertion space (33). Specifically, in conjunction with the rotation of the alpha door handle portion (44), the door restraint member (54) may have its rear surface slide relative to the rear surface of the door wing portion (99). By the rotational motion, the door restraint member (54) may be configured to cover at least a portion of the door wing portion (99), through which the door restraint member (54) may be coupled with the beta door (96).

[0112] FIG. 12 is a drawing of a door-open state of a transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] When the beta port assembly (60) is in a door-openable state (A3), the alpha door (40) to which the beta door (96) is coupled can be opened through the alpha door handle portion (44) to switch the beta port assembly (60) to a door-open state (A4). In the door-open state (A4) of the beta port assembly (60), the chamber space (63) and the transfer space (10a) can be connected to each other.

[0114] The following describes the operation of the transport device according to the above configuration. The explanation is made with reference to the preceding drawings.

[0115] As shown in Fig. 5, the beta port assembly (60) can be moved toward the alpha port assembly (10). Since the beta port assembly (60) is not mounted on the alpha port assembly (10), it can be positioned in a separated state (A1).

[0116] As shown in Fig. 6, the coupling pin (20) of the alpha port assembly (10) can be inserted into the coupling restraint portion (80). Specifically, the coupling pin (20) can be inserted so as to pass through the pin through hole (83) of the coupling boss (82) and be positioned between the plurality of coupling balls (84). Thereafter, as shown in Fig. 5 (b), by positioning the handle portion (92) from the first state (92a) to the second state (92b), the plurality of coupling balls (84) can be operated from the released state (84b) to the restraint state (84a). Since the plurality of coupling balls (84) restrain the coupling pin (20) in the restraint state (84a), the beta port assembly (60) can be operated in the first restraint state (A2a). At this time, the second coupling surface (76) of the beta port assembly (60) may be arranged to face or be in close contact with the first coupling surface (18a) of the alpha port assembly (10). The beta port assembly (60) may be configured so that the second coupling surface (76) does not slip or slide relative to the first coupling surface (18a). Specifically, when the beta port assembly (60) is mounted and coupled to the alpha port assembly (10) and the alpha door (40) and the beta door (96) are opened, the second coupling surface (76) may be configured so that it does not slip or slide relative to the first coupling surface (18a).

[0117] Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 8, the rotation coupling unit (24) of the alpha port assembly (10) can be rotated. By the rotation of the rotation coupling unit (24), the restraining member (30) can be moved to restrain the body wing part (74) of the beta body (70). By the rotation coupling unit (24), the beta port assembly (60) can be brought into close contact with or restrained by the alpha port assembly (10) and switched from the first coupling state (A2a) to the second coupling state (A2b).

[0118] As shown in Fig. 10, by manipulating the alpha door handle portion (44) of the alpha port assembly (10), the door engaging unit (50) can be rotated. Through the rotation of the door engaging unit (50), the door restraining member (54) of the door engaging unit (50) can restrain the door wing portion (99) of the beta door (96). Through this process, the beta port assembly (60) can be switched from the second engaging state (A2b) to the door-openable state (A3).

[0119] As shown in Fig. 12, the alpha door handle (44) can be rotated to open the alpha door (40) to which the beta door (96) is coupled. That is, the beta port assembly (60) can be switched to the door-opening state (A4). Through this process, the chamber space (63) of the beta port assembly (60) can be connected to the transport space (10a) of the alpha port assembly (10).

[0120] The beta port assembly (60) does not rotate about the central axis (C) with respect to the alpha port assembly (10) during the process of transitioning from the first engagement state (A2a) to the door-open state (A4) or, conversely, from the door-open state (A4) to the first engagement state (A2a). That is, by omitting the rotational motion of the beta port assembly (60) with respect to the alpha port assembly (10) during the engagement, mounting, and opening processes, the tightness and sealing between the two components can be improved.

[0121] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

[0122] 1: Transfer device 10: Alpha port assembly

[0123] 12: Alpha Flange 16: Flange Body

[0124] 18: Flange joint 24: Rotating joint unit

[0125] 40: Alpha Door 42: Alpha Door Body

[0126] 44: Alpha door handle 48: Combination safety device

[0127] 50: Door joint unit 60: Beta port assembly

[0128] 62: Chamber 70: Beta body

[0129] 74: Body wing part 80: Joint restraint part

[0130] 90: coupling control unit 92: handle unit

[0131] 96: Betadoor

Claims

1. Alpha port assembly installed on the installation wall that divides the transport space; A beta port assembly detachably coupled to the alpha port assembly, comprising a beta port assembly having a chamber space and configured such that the chamber space and the transfer space are connected according to the operation of the alpha port assembly; The above alpha port assembly is, An alpha flange fixed to the above installation wall and forming an alpha port opening; An alpha door configured to open and close the above alpha port opening; The above beta port assembly is, A beta body detachably connected to the alpha flange and having a beta port opening connected to the chamber space; A beta door that opens and closes the above beta port opening, comprising a beta door corresponding to the above alpha door; The above alpha flange, including a coupling pin protruding toward the above beta port assembly; The above beta port assembly is, A coupling restraint provided on the above beta body and operating to be selectively restrained to the coupling pin; A transport device comprising a coupling control unit disposed adjacent to the coupling restraint unit and controlling the operation of the coupling restraint unit.

2. In paragraph 1, The above bonding restraint is, A bonding boss that forms a bonding space; A plurality of coupling balls arranged in the above coupling space, comprising a plurality of coupling balls that operate in a restraining state that restrains the movement of the coupling pin and a releasing state in which the restraint on the coupling pin is released by moving from the restraining state; The above coupling control unit, A transport device configured to selectively apply magnetic force to the above plurality of coupling balls to move between the above-mentioned restraint state and the above-mentioned release state.

3. In paragraph 2, The above beta port assembly is, A handle part provided on the above beta body and rotatable from the above beta body, the handle part including the coupling control part mounted thereon; A transport device in which the control of the coupling control unit for the plurality of coupling balls is configured to be linked with the rotational motion of the handle unit.

4. In paragraph 3, The above handle part, It operates in a first state and a second state lying down from the first state, The above coupling control unit, A transport device that operates so that the magnetic influence on the coupling restraint changes according to the operation of the first and second states.

5. In paragraph 4, The above coupling control unit, When the above handle part is in the first state, it operates in the released state, A transport device that operates in the restraint state when the handle part is in the second state.

6. In paragraph 5, The above bonding restraint is, A transport device including an elastic member configured to maintain the plurality of coupling balls in the restraining state when the handle portion is in the second state.

7. In paragraph 1, The above beta port assembly is, It operates in a combined state in which it is combined with the above alpha port assembly, and a separated state in which it is separated from the above alpha port assembly; The above alpha port assembly is, A rotary coupling unit configured to be rotatable around the alpha port opening of the alpha flange; The above bonding state is, A first engagement state in which the above engagement pin is restrained by the above engagement restraint; A transport device including a second coupling state in which the beta body is brought into close contact with the alpha flange by rotation of the rotating coupling unit.

8. In paragraph 7, A transport device in which the first coupling state and the second coupling state are sequentially performed.

9. In paragraph 7, The above rotating coupling unit is, Circular unit body; A plurality of restraint members provided in the above unit body, comprising a plurality of restraint members spaced apart from each other along the unit body; The above beta body is, A transport device including a plurality of body wing parts configured to be pressurized to the alpha flange by the plurality of restraining members according to the rotation of the rotation coupling unit.

10. In paragraph 7, The above Alpha Door, Alpha door body; A door coupling unit that is provided to face the beta door in the alpha door body and is provided to be rotatable, and optionally includes a door coupling unit that restrains the beta door; The above beta port assembly is, A transport device that switches from the second coupled state to a door-openable state in which the alpha door and the beta door can be opened by the restraining action of the door coupling unit.

11. In paragraph 10, The above door coupling unit, A plurality of door restraint members protruding in a radial direction, the plurality of door restraint members being spaced apart from each other along the periphery of the door coupling unit; The above beta door is, A transport device comprising a beta door coupling unit that forms a settling space into which the plurality of door restraint members are inserted, and a beta door coupling unit having a plurality of door wing parts configured to be respectively caught by the plurality of door restraint members according to the rotation of the door coupling unit.

12. In paragraph 10, The above alpha port assembly is, An alpha door handle provided on the other side of the alpha door body, the alpha door handle controlling the operation of the door coupling unit; A transport device further comprising a coupling safety device provided on the alpha door to selectively restrict the operation of the alpha door handle portion, the coupling safety device releasing the restriction on the alpha door handle portion when in the second coupling state.

13. In paragraph 12, The above combination safety device is, A reference arm that rotates around an axis; An alpha protrusion arm configured to be raised and lowered according to the rotation of the reference arm at one end of the reference arm, and which restricts the movement of the alpha door handle part; A transport device comprising a beta protrusion arm configured to be liftable from the other end of the reference arm, wherein when the beta port assembly is in the second engagement state, the beta protrusion arm is pressurized by the beta door to release the restraint of the alpha protrusion arm on the alpha door handle portion.

14. In paragraph 10, When the above beta port assembly is in the door-openable state, The above beta door is a transport device that is bound to the alpha door so that it can be opened together with the alpha door.

15. In paragraph 14, The above beta door is, A transport device that is magnetically coupled to the above beta body, but is detached from the beta body when the beta port opening is opened by the alpha door.

Images