EP3882462A1 - Machine for construction site - Google Patents

Abstract

Construction machine making it possible to distribute a fluid product, of the screed type for example, on a construction site as well as a method for replacing the progressive cavity pump of such a construction machine, comprising a frame (10), provided with an upstream flange (11a) provided to communicate with an upstream end of a progressive cavity pump, a downstream module (30), comprising a downstream flange (31a), provided to communicate with a downstream end of the progressive cavity pump, and a mounting device (40), configured to mount the progressive cavity pump between the upstream flange (11a) and the downstream flange (31a) of the downstream module (30), in which the mounting device (40) comprises a part fixed (41), integral with the frame (10), a movable part (51), integral with the downstream module (30) and movably mounted on the fixed part (41), and a locking member (57), configured to block or release the mobility of the movable part (51) relative to the fixed part (41).

Description

Technical area

The present disclosure relates to a construction machine making it possible to distribute a fluid product, of the screed type for example, on a construction site as well as a method for replacing a progressive cavity pump on such a construction machine.

Such a construction machine and such a method for replacing a progressive cavity pump can in particular be used in the building sector to adapt the pumping properties of the construction machine to the specificities of the site on which it is used, allowing a easy and quick replacement of its progressive cavity pump.

Prior art

In the building industry, on a site, site machines are conventionally used for pumping fluid products, such as mortars, screeds, cements or even concrete, in order to supply the site's needs with such products.

A classic example of such a construction machine according to the state of the art is shown in Fig. 1 . Such a machine 91 generally takes the form of a trailer provided with wheels 92 and a coupling system 93. It comprises a frame 94 including means 95 for receiving the fluid product, generally taking the form of a hopper, and drive means 96, generally taking the form of one or more motors, thermal and / or hydraulic for example. It also comprises a pumping device 97, generally of the progressive cavity pump type, and a distribution module 98 provided with a distribution orifice 98a.

Such a construction machine conventionally operates as follows. The fluid product to be distributed on the site is received in the receiving means 95 directly from a mixer truck, commonly called a mixer truck; the drive means 96 drive the means of pumping 97 which then causes the fluid product to advance from the receiving means 95 to the distribution module 98; the fluid then escapes through the distribution orifice 98a to which a distribution pipe has been connected which joins the area of the site requiring the supply of the fluid.

In a construction machine 91 according to the state of the art, the pumping device 97 is mounted between the receiving means 95 and the distribution module 98 using a rigid mounting device 99. Generally, this device assembly 99 comprises a plurality of tie rods 99a, extending from the frame 94, to which they are bolted, passing through the bores of a plate 99b of the distribution module 98, and provided at their front ends with threads on which are tightened nuts 99c. Thus, thanks to these tie rods 99a, the pumping device 97 is held in compression between a first centering flange communicating with the hopper of the receiving means 95 and a second centering flange communicating with the distribution module 98.

Consequently, in a construction site machine according to the state of the art, the pumping device is an integral part of the site machine. However, the pumping device is a part which can wear out and which it is sometimes necessary to replace. In such a case, since the pumping device is an integral part of the construction machine, it is necessary to partially disassemble the latter in order to extract the pumping device and replace it.

In the example of Fig. 1 , it is thus necessary to unscrew the nuts 99c of the three tie rods 99a of the mounting device 99, to completely remove the distribution module 98 and then to extract the pumping device 99 from the front. Mounting the new pumping device is also difficult as it is necessary to center and hold the new pumping device in place using external equipment while reassembling the distribution module 98 and tightening the nuts 99c on. the tie rods 99a.

Thus, the replacement of the pumping device is long, tedious, and a source of errors or incidents: fall of the pumping device or of the distribution module; misalignment of the pumping device; leakage etc.

There is therefore a real need for a construction machine and for a method for replacing a progressive cavity pump on such a construction machine which are devoid, at least in part, of the drawbacks inherent in the aforementioned known configurations.

Disclosure of the invention

This presentation relates to a construction machine, comprising
a frame, provided with an upstream flange designed to communicate with an upstream end of a progressive cavity pump,
a downstream module, comprising a downstream flange, provided to communicate with a downstream end of the progressive cavity pump, and
a mounting device, configured to mount the progressive cavity pump between the upstream flange and the downstream flange of the downstream module,
in which the mounting device comprises
a fixed part, integral with the frame,
a movable part, integral with the downstream module and mounted movably on the fixed part, and
a blocking member, configured to block or release the mobility of the movable part relative to the fixed part.

Thus, by virtue of this mounting device comprising a movable part, it is possible to install and uninstall the progressive cavity pump forming a pumping device in a simple and rapid manner. As a result, the progressive cavity pump can be replaced very easily, for example in the event of wear.

In particular, in this construction machine, it is no longer necessary to completely dismantle the distribution module: in fact, thanks to its mobile system, the assembly device makes it possible to release the progressive cavity pump by simply moving the module. distribution, the distribution module remaining at all times integral with the mounting device and therefore connected to the frame via the mounting device.

In particular, it is understood that the blocking member can be manipulated between a first state in which it blocks the movement of the movable part by relative to the fixed part and a second state in which it authorizes such a displacement.

As a result, since the dispensing module remains in place, the installation and uninstallation time of the progressive cavity pump is greatly shortened. Likewise, these operations are facilitated. In particular, the risk of error or incident linked to the assembly and disassembly of the distribution module is reduced, in particular alignment or positioning problems of the distribution module.

In addition, these easy operations of installing and uninstalling the progressive cavity pump make the pumping device truly removable rather than simply removable. In other words, it becomes possible to change the progressive cavity pump on each site in order to choose and install the most suitable progressive cavity pump for the application envisaged on this site. By acting in this way, a more precise distribution of the fluid product is ensured and better suited to the site in question; the lifespan of progressive cavity pumps is also extended by making them work in conditions close to their nominal working conditions for which they are optimized.

Thus, it helps to improve the quality of distribution while reducing the environmental impact of the construction machine by reducing the frequency of scrapping of the pumping devices used.

In some embodiments, the movable part of the mounting device is slidably mounted on the fixed part. The installation and removal of the progressive cavity pump is thus even simpler and faster since it suffices to slide the distribution module forward in order to release the progressive cavity pump. In addition, the problems of alignment and positioning of the distribution module are further reduced since its alignment is preserved.

In some embodiments, the mounting device includes at least one cradle configured to support the progressive cavity pump. Such a cradle makes it possible to support the progressive cavity pump during the installation or uninstallation operation, once the movable part of the device of assembly has been slid relative to the fixed part, and therefore once the progressive cavity pump is no longer retained between the flanges of the hopper and of the distribution module. This reduces the risk of the progressive cavity pump falling during these operations. The need to use an external lifting or carrying device is also reduced to maintain the progressive cavity pump as long as the mounting device is open, that is to say as long as the movable part is slid forward. relative to the fixed part.

In some embodiments, the fixed portion of the mounting device includes at least one cradle configured to support the progressive cavity pump. A fixed support point is thus available in the frame of reference of the frame, which ensures better stability of the progressive cavity pump in the frame of reference of the frame. In particular, this facilitates alignment of the progressive cavity pump with the hopper flange.

In some embodiments, the movable portion of the mounting device includes at least one cradle configured to support the progressive cavity pump. There is thus a fixed support point in the reference frame of the distribution module, which ensures better stability of the progressive cavity pump in the reference frame of the distribution module. In particular, this facilitates the alignment of the progressive cavity pump with the flange of the distribution module. In addition, this makes it possible to place the progressive cavity pump on this cradle and to drive its translation integrally towards the flange of the hopper during the sliding of the movable part of the mounting device towards the fixed part.

In some embodiments, at least a first cradle is provided on the fixed part of the mounting device and a second cradle is provided on the movable part. In this way, the progressive cavity pump can be held stably between these two cradles, without any external support being necessary. The progressive cavity pump also remains supported during the sliding of the movable part relative to the fixed part.

In some embodiments, at least one cradle of the movable portion of the mounting device is positioned to support the central portion of the progressive cavity pump when the latter is mounted between the outlet flange of the hopper and the flange d. input of the distribution module. We can in particular consider that this central part corresponds to a section extending axially over a length of 20% of the total length of the progressive cavity pump on either side of the geometric center of the progressive cavity pump. In this way, the cradle is located substantially at the level of the center of gravity of the progressive cavity pump, which reduces the risk of the progressive cavity pump tipping around this cradle.

In some embodiments, at least one cradle is provided with two studs directed towards the interior of the cradle. Such point contacts make it possible to stably hold pumping devices having different diameters or having irregular surfaces.

In some embodiments, a first part of the assembly device among the movable part and the fixed part comprises at least one rod engaged in a guide cylinder of the second part of the assembly device among the movable part and the fixed part. Such a guide cylinder makes it possible to guide the sliding rod in a sliding connection. It can in particular be formed by a sleeve or by at least two aligned bores.

Preferably, the first part of the assembly device is the movable part of the assembly device while the second part of the assembly device is its fixed part. Thus, in such embodiments, the movable part of the mounting device comprises at least one rod engaged in a guide cylinder of the fixed part. In this way, the guide orifice is carried by the fixed part, which offers greater stability and greater convenience in handling.

In some embodiments, the first part of the mounting device comprises two parallel rods engaged in two guide cylinders of the second part. These two rods preferably extend in a horizontal plane; however, other plans are possible.

In some embodiments, a cradle connects the two rods of the first part of the mounting device.

In some embodiments, at least one rod of the first part of the mounting device is provided with a stop pin at one of its ends. This end is preferably that oriented towards the second part of the mounting device, ie the rear end when the first part is the movable part. Such a stop pin forms a stop for the sliding and thus makes it possible to avoid inadvertently separating the movable part from the fixed part.

In some embodiments, at least one rod of the first part of the mounting device is provided with a nut screwed onto a thread provided at one end of the rod. This end is preferably that oriented away from the second part of the mounting device, ie the front end when the first part is the movable part. This nut system makes it possible to complete the blocking action of the blocking member so as to ensure a greater compressive force on the progressive cavity pump, when this is desired.

In some embodiments, the distribution module is slidably mounted on at least one rod of the movable part of the mounting device. In particular, the distribution module can comprise at least one bore through which said rod passes. In such a case, the distribution module can be retained at the rear end of the rod by a nut, a pin or any other retaining member.

In some embodiments, the fixed part of the mounting device is a bracket mounted on the front face of the chassis.

In some embodiments, the second part of the mounting device comprises two arms, each carrying a guide cylinder.

In some embodiments, a cradle connects the two arms of the second part of the mounting device.

In some embodiments, at least one locking member of the mounting device is a locking pin. Such a pin is easy and quick to insert or remove to block or allow sliding of the mounting device.

In some embodiments, at least one locking pin is configured to engage a locking hole in the first part of the mounting device and to be retained, once engaged in that locking hole, by a portion of the clamp. second part of the assembly device. This stop portion can in particular be a stop surface provided on the back of the guide cylinder in question.

In some embodiments, at least one locking pin is inclined relative to the vertical direction, preferably outward. This makes it easier to grip and maneuver the pin. For example, the locking pin can form an angle with the vertical direction between 10 and 30 °.

In some embodiments, the construction machine further comprises a drive device, preferably mounted in the frame. This drive device enables the progressive cavity pump to be driven.

In some embodiments, the drive device is a motor. This motor can in particular be thermal and / or hydraulic.

In some embodiments, the construction machine comprises a transmission shaft, connected to the output of the drive device and passing through the hopper towards the output flange. In particular, this transmission shaft can be aligned, and preferably centered, on the output flange. Such a shaft makes it possible to transmit the torque from the drive device to the progressive cavity pump.

In some embodiments, the driveshaft is provided with an Archimedean screw, paddles, or other transport elements. In this way, the transmission shaft contributes to transporting the fluid product present in the hopper towards the inlet of the progressive cavity pump.

In other embodiments, the transmission shaft is devoid of a transport element. Indeed, depending on the model, the progressive cavity pump may be self-priming.

In some embodiments, the transmission shaft is provided at its front end with a coupling piece configured to couple the transmission shaft to the rotor of the progressive cavity pump.

In some embodiments, the coupling part is configured to transmit a rotational torque while allowing axial translational movement of the rotor of the progressive cavity pump, at least forward. In this way it is possible to disconnect the cavity pump progressive transmission shaft by a simple translation, which is possible after displacement, and preferably sliding, of the movable part of the assembly device. In particular, no bolting, more generally no retaining member, retains the rotor of the progressive cavity pump on the coupling part. No tool is therefore necessary, and no potentially difficult access to the interior of the hopper is therefore necessary, which further simplifies the operation of installing or uninstalling the progressive cavity pump.

In some embodiments, the coupling part has a socket profile intended to receive a drive head of the rotor of the progressive cavity pump. This profile can include at least 2 sides, for example 3 or 4 sides. It may in particular be a square profile.

In some embodiments, the coupling part comprises a coupling plate, extending in an axial plane and having two opposing mating surfaces, adapted to engage a drive slot of a head of the head. drive of the progressive cavity pump rotor.

In some embodiments, the coupling plate has a centering protuberance at its front end intended to engage in a centering recess of the drive slot.

In certain embodiments, the coupling piece comprises a centering ring, the central axis of which is parallel, preferably coincident, with the axis of the transmission shaft, intended to engage around the head of the coupling. drive of the progressive cavity pump rotor. This ring is preferably cylindrical, preferably with a circular base.

In some embodiments, the dispensing module includes a stopper configured to block the forward axial translation of the rotor of the progressive cavity pump. Such a stop makes it possible to block the rotor against the coupling part when the progressive cavity pump is installed. Such a stop is mainly useful when it is intended to drive the progressive cavity pump in reverse gear: in fact, in forward gear, the rotor is naturally pressed towards the coupling part.

In certain embodiments, the construction machine comprises said progressive cavity pump. This progressive cavity pump is preferably passive, that is to say driven by a drive torque supplied from the outside, for example by the drive device mentioned above.

In some embodiments, the flanges of the hopper and the dispensing module are smooth. In other words, the progressive cavity pump is not bolted to the latter: it is retained by compression between them.

In some embodiments, the fluid product is a mortar, screed, cement or concrete. Thus, although fluid, this product may have a certain viscosity.

• libération de l'organe de blocage,
• escamotage de la partie mobile du dispositif de montage solidaire du module aval,
• retrait de la pompe à cavité progressive initialement en place,
• installation de la nouvelle pompe à cavité progressive contre une première bride parmi la bride amont du châssis et la bride aval du module aval, rapprochement de la partie mobile du dispositif de montage solidaire du module aval (30) jusqu'à ce que la nouvelle pompe à cavité progressive soit en appui contre la deuxième bride parmi la bride amont du châssis et la bride aval du module aval, et
• blocage de l'organe de blocage.

The present disclosure also relates to a method for replacing a progressive cavity pump on a construction machine according to any one of the preceding embodiments, comprising the following steps:

• release of the blocking member,
• retraction of the movable part of the assembly device integral with the downstream module,
• removal of the progressive cavity pump initially in place,
• installation of the new progressive cavity pump against a first flange among the upstream flange of the frame and the downstream flange of the downstream module, bringing together the mobile part of the mounting device secured to the downstream module (30) until the new pump with progressive cavity either resting against the second flange among the upstream flange of the frame and the downstream flange of the downstream module, and
• blocking of the blocking member.

On this occasion, the new progressive cavity pump may have a diameter different from that of the progressive cavity pump initially in place. To do this, if necessary, adaptation elements such as shims or spacers can be added to center the progressive cavity pump of smaller diameter on the larger diameter flanges of the hopper and of the distribution module.

In some embodiments, prior to the step of releasing the locking member, at least one nut screwed onto a thread provided at one of the ends of a rod of the mounting device is loosened. Preferably, this nut is simply loosened without being removed from the rod. In this way, part of the forces that can be exerted on the locking member is released, which facilitates its operation.

In certain embodiments, after the step of locking the locking member, at least said nut is tightened.

In some embodiments, during the step of removing the progressive cavity pump, the rotor of the progressive cavity pump is uncoupled from the coupling part of the transmission shaft by a simple translation.

In certain embodiments, during the step of installing the new progressive cavity pump, the rotor of the new progressive cavity pump is coupled with the coupling part of the transmission shaft, after alignment, by a simple translation.

In the present description, the terms “axial”, “radial”, “tangential”, “interior”, “exterior” and their derivatives are defined with respect to the main axis of the progressive cavity pump; The term “axial plane” is understood to mean a plane passing through the main axis of the progressive cavity pump and the term “radial plane” means a plane perpendicular to this main axis; finally, the terms “upstream” and “downstream”, as well as “rear” and “front”, are defined in relation to the circulation of the fluid in the construction machine.

The aforementioned characteristics and advantages, as well as others, will become apparent on reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the construction machine and of the method proposed. This detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

The accompanying drawings are schematic and are intended above all to illustrate the principles of the disclosure.

• [Fig. 1] La figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'une machine de chantier selon l'art antérieur.
• [Fig. 2] La figure 2 est une vue en perspective d'un exemple de machine de chantier selon l'exposé.
• [Fig. 3] La figure 3 illustre le châssis de cette machine de chantier.
• [Fig. 4] La figure 4 illustre le dispositif de montage de cette machine de chantier.
• [Fig. 5] La figure 5 est une vue dirigée vers l'amont de ce dispositif de montage.
• [Fig. 6] La figure 6 une vue dirigée vers l'aval de ce dispositif de montage.
• [Fig. 7] La figure 7 illustre la partie fixe de ce dispositif de montage.
• [Fig. 8] La figure 8 illustre un deuxième exemple d'accouplement.

In these drawings, from one figure to another, identical elements (or parts of elements) are identified by the same reference signs. In addition, elements (or parts of elements) belonging to different exemplary embodiments but having a similar function are identified in the figures by numerical references incremented by 100, 200, etc.

• [ Fig. 1 ] The figure 1 is a perspective view of a construction machine according to the prior art.
• [ Fig. 2 ] The figure 2 is a perspective view of an example of a construction machine according to the disclosure.
• [ Fig. 3 ] The figure 3 illustrates the frame of this construction machine.
• [ Fig. 4 ] The figure 4 illustrates the assembly device of this construction machine.
• [ Fig. 5 ] The figure 5 is a view directed upstream of this mounting device.
• [ Fig. 6 ] The figure 6 a view directed downstream of this mounting device.
• [ Fig. 7 ] The figure 7 illustrates the fixed part of this mounting device.
• [ Fig. 8 ] The figure 8 illustrates a second example of coupling.

Description of the embodiments

In order to make the description more concrete, an example of a construction machine is described in detail below, with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is recalled that the invention is not limited to this example.

The figure 2 illustrates an example of a construction machine 1 according to the description. This construction machine 1 takes the form of a trailer provided with wheels 2 and a coupling system 3. It comprises a frame 10, a pumping device 20 and a distribution module 30. The pumping device 20 and the distribution module 30 are mounted on the frame 10 using a mounting device 40.

As is best seen on the figure 3 , the construction machine 1 comprises a hopper 11, mounted in the frame 10, closed by a cover liftable 12 in which an opening 13 is made. This hopper 11 is intended to receive a fluid product to be distributed on a site, for example a screed. A mixer truck thus supplies this hopper 11 with fluid product through the opening 13. A grid 14, acting as a screen or sieve, is provided at the top of the hopper 11 in order to retain any undesirable particles of large dimensions such as pebbles.

The hopper 11 is provided at its lower end, on the front of the frame 10, with an outlet flange 11a (visible in particular on the figures 4 and 5 ). This outlet flange 11a is circular and measures approximately 20 cm in diameter. It forms an annular shoulder, set back from the front of the frame 10, surrounding an outlet opening 11b of the hopper 11.

The construction machine 1 also comprises a drive device 60 mounted in the frame, associating a heat engine, for example of the diesel type, with a hydraulic machine. The output shaft 61 of this drive device is coupled to a transmission shaft 62 using a first coupling part 63. This coupling part has an elasticity allowing radial eccentricity of the shaft. transmission 62 relative to the output shaft 61. The transmission shaft 62 extends through the hopper 11 to the vicinity of its output orifice 11b where it ends in a second coupling part 64, centered on outlet 11b. This coupling part 64 has on its front face, opposite the transmission shaft 62, a square shaped four-sided profile 64a (visible in particular on the figure 5 ). The transmission shaft 62 also forms the axis of an Archimedean screw 62a intended to facilitate the transport of the fluid product to the outlet orifice 11b of the hopper 11.

The distribution module 30 takes the form of a cone comprising a rear end plate 31, ie upstream, and a front end plate 32, ie downstream. The rear end plate 31 is provided with a flange 31a surrounding an inlet port 31b of large diameter; the front end plate 32 is provided for its part with a distribution orifice 32a of smaller diameter intended to distribute the fluid pumped by the construction machine 1, in a distribution pipe for example. Rear end plate 31 further comprises two bores 33 provided symmetrically with respect to the vertical axial plane.

Analogously to the flange 11a of the hopper 11, the flange 31a of the distribution module 30 is circular and measures approximately 20 cm in diameter. It thus forms an annular shoulder, set back relative to the rear plate 31 of the distribution module 30, surrounding the inlet orifice 31b of the distribution module 30.

As can be seen on the figure 5 , the distribution module 30 also has a stop 34 held in the center of the inlet orifice 31b by means of two arms 34a extending from the internal walls of the distribution module 30.

The pumping device 20 is of the progressive cavity pump type. It comprises a stator made of elastomeric material enclosed in a metal casing 21. This casing 21 is cylindrical and has a diameter equal to or slightly smaller than that of the flanges 11a and 31a. Thus, when the progressive cavity pump 20 is installed, the front and rear ends of the casing 21 of the progressive cavity pump 20 bear respectively on the shoulder formed by the flange 31a of the distribution module 30 and the shoulder formed. by the flange 11a of the hopper 11. The casing 21 is thus retained in compression between these two flanges 11a, 31a, which blocks the position and the orientation of the casing 21 and therefore of the progressive cavity pump 20. Furthermore, the stator made of elastomeric material seals the progressive cavity pump 20 by also applying itself to the shoulders of these flanges 11a, 31a.

The progressive cavity pump 20 also comprises a rotor provided with a drive head having a shape complementary to the socket profile 64a of the second coupling part 64. The head of the rotor can thus engage axially in the second. coupling part 64 in order to couple the rotor of the progressive cavity pump 20 with the drive device 60. A clearance of at least 1 mm may however be provided between the faces of the rotor head and the sides of the rotor. hollow-sided profile 94a of the second coupling part 64. The downstream end of the rotor is retained for its part axially by the stop 34 of the distribution module 30. In this way, the rotor of the progressive cavity pump is maintained sandwiched between the second coupling part 64 and stopper 34, without the need to bolt, or fix in any way, the rotor to second coupling part 64 or stopper 34.

As this is best seen on figures 4 to 7 , the assembly device 40 comprises a fixed part 41, mounted on the front face of the frame 10, around the flange 11a of the hopper 11, and a movable part 51, integral with the distribution module 30.

The fixed part 41 of the mounting device 40 comprises two arms 42, extending forwards, on either side of the flange 11a of the hopper 11 symmetrically with respect to the vertical axial plane. These two arms 42 are connected by a first cradle 43 extending in a radial plane. This first cradle 43 is provided with two studs 43a, symmetrical with respect to the vertical axial plane and directed towards the inside of the cradle 43. Each arm 42 is provided, at its front end, with a front plate 44 and about ten centimeter further back, with a stop plate 45. The front plate 44 and the stop plate 45 are each provided with a bore 44a, 45a, these two bores 44a, 45a, of the same diameter, being aligned according to the axial direction so as to form a guide cylinder 46.

The movable part 51 of the mounting device 50 comprises for its part two rods 52, extending axially, connected by a second cradle 53, extending in a radial plane. This second cradle 53 is also provided with two studs 53a similar to those of the first cradle 43. This second cradle 53 is provided axially substantially in the middle of the rods 52.

The rear end of each of these rods 52 is engaged in a respective guide cylinder 46 of the fixed part 41 of the mounting device 40. The diameter of the rear portion of these rods is thus substantially equal to, or slightly less than, that bores 44a, 45a. In this way, the rods 52 can slide in the guide cylinder 46, which allows the sliding of the movable part 51 of the mounting device 40 with respect to its fixed part 41. A stop pin 54 is mounted across it. the rear end of each of the rods 52 in order to prevent the withdrawal of the rods 52 from the guide cylinders 46, the stop pins 54 being retained at the end of their travel by the stop plate 45 of the fixed part 41 of the mounting device 40.

The front end of each of these rods 52 is threaded and engaged in a respective bore 33 of the distribution module 30; a nut 55 screwed onto the front end of each rod 52 makes it possible to block the sliding of the distribution module 30 towards the front and thus ensures that the distribution module 30 is permanently secured to the frame 10 by means of the control device. assembly 40.

Furthermore, each rod 52 is provided, in its rear half, substantially halfway between the cradle 53 and its rear end, with a locking orifice 56, passing perpendicularly through the rod 52 right through. The direction formed by this locking orifice is inclined both with respect to the vertical direction and the horizontal direction; in the present example, it forms an angle of approximately 20 ° with respect to the vertical direction. In the present example, each rod 52 includes only one blocking hole 56: however, in other examples, each rod could include several blocking holes provided at different levels of the rod in order to install pumping devices. of various lengths.

The mounting device 40 further comprises a locking pin 57 for each of the rods 52. This locking pin 57 can be engaged in the locking hole 56 of the rod 52 to limit or block the sliding of the rod 52, the locking pin 57 being stopped either by the stop plate 45 of the fixed part 41 of the mounting device 40 when the latter is in its "closed" state, that is to say its operational mounting state, the part movable 51 being pushed backwards, or by the front plate 44 when the mounting device 40 is in its "open" state, the movable part 51 being pulled forward.

The operation of uninstalling the progressive cavity pump 20 and then installing a new progressive cavity pump 20 will now be explained.

The fully assembled and functional configuration is visible on the figure 2 . In this configuration, the progressive cavity pump 20 is installed between the hopper 11 and the distribution module 30. In this state, the mounting device 40 is in its operational mounting state, that is to say in the "closed" state where the movable part 51 is pushed against the part. fixed 41. In this state, the locking pins 57 are engaged in the locking holes 56 and retained against the stop plates 45. Furthermore, in this position, the second cradle 53 is located within five centimeters of the plates. 44 of the fixed part 41.

In a first step, the nuts 55 of the rods 52 of the mounting device 40 are loosened slightly to release the compressive stress exerted on the progressive cavity pump 20 as well as the shear stresses exerted on the locking pins 57 engaged in their locking holes 56. On this occasion, the nuts 55 are simply loosened and are not unscrewed until they are removed from the rods 52: in this way, the distribution module 30 remains mounted on the assembly device 40.

Then, the locking pins 57 are withdrawn from their locking holes 56, which frees the sliding of the rods 52 in their guide cylinders 46. The distribution module 30 can then be pulled forward, which causes the sliding. of the movable part 51 of the mounting device relative to its fixed part 41.

On this occasion, the progressive cavity pump 20 is then detached from at least one of the flanges 11a or 31a and rests freely on the cradles 43 and 53. If the progressive cavity pump 20 has remained stuck to the flange 11a of the hopper 11, it is then sufficient to pull it a few centimeters forward to disconnect, without the intervention of any tool, the rotor of the progressive cavity pump 20 from the second coupling part 64; otherwise, the uncoupling has already taken place when sliding the mounting device 40. The progressive cavity pump 20 can then be withdrawn.

The new progressive cavity pump 20 is then positioned on the cradles 43 and 53. Preferably, the progressive cavity pump 20 is pressed against one of the flanges 11a, 31a, preferably the flange 31a of the distribution module 30.

Then, the distribution module 30 is pushed backwards, bringing with it the new progressive cavity pump 20, until the new progressive cavity pump comes to rest against the flange 11a of the hopper 11. When of this step, it may be necessary to maneuver the rotor of the new progressive cavity pump 20 or the whole of the new progressive cavity pump 20 in order to turn its head in an orientation allowing it to mate with the second part coupling 64.

Once the new progressive cavity pump is correctly installed between the flanges 11a and 31a, the locking pins 57 can be re-engaged in the locking holes 56 which have regained their places behind the stop plates 45. The nuts 55 are re-engaged. then tightened in order to increase the compressive stress exerted on the new progressive cavity pump 20 and, thus, firmly lock its position and orientation.

The figure 8 describes a second embodiment of the second coupling part. In this second example, the second coupling part 164, still located at the downstream end of the transmission shaft 162, has a coupling plate 164a, extending in an axial plane and having two coupling surfaces. opposites. The coupling part 164 also comprises a centering ring 164b, cylindrical with a circular base, the central axis of which coincides with the axis of the transmission shaft 162.

The progressive cavity pump rotor drive head 122 has a cylindrical outer surface 122a and a drive slot 122b extending axially from its upstream end.

The coupling plate 164a can thus engage in the drive slot 122b of the drive head 122 of the rotor of the progressive cavity pump in order to ensure a rotational coupling. The centering ring 164b makes it possible for its part to radially retain the cylindrical outer surface 122a in order to ensure its centering.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it is evident that modifications and changes can be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims. In particular, Individual characteristics of the different illustrated / mentioned embodiments can be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the description and the drawings should be taken in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

It is also obvious that all the characteristics described with reference to a method can be transposed, alone or in combination, to a device, and conversely, all the characteristics described with reference to a device can be transposed, alone or in combination, to a method.

Claims (12)

Construction machine, including
a frame (10), provided with an upstream flange (11a) designed to communicate with an upstream end of a progressive cavity pump (20),
a downstream module (30), comprising a downstream flange (31a), provided to communicate with a downstream end of the progressive cavity pump (20), and
a mounting device (40), configured to mount the progressive cavity pump (20) between the upstream flange (11a) and the downstream flange (31a) of the downstream module (30),
wherein the mounting device (40) comprises
a fixed part (41), integral with the frame (10),
a movable part (51), integral with the downstream module (30) and movably mounted on the fixed part (41), and
a blocking member (57), configured to block or release the mobility of the movable part (51) relative to the fixed part (41). Construction machine according to Claim 1, in which the movable part (51) of the assembly device is slidably mounted on the fixed part (41). A construction machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mounting device (40) comprises at least one cradle (43, 53) configured to support the progressive cavity pump (20). Construction machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a first part (51) of the mounting device (40) among the movable part (51) and the fixed part (41) comprises at least one rod (52 ) engaged in a guide cylinder (46) of the second part (41) of the assembly device (40) among the movable part (51) and the fixed part (41), the first part of the assembly device preferably being the movable part (51) of the mounting device (40) while the second part of the mounting device is preferably its fixed part (41). Construction machine according to Claim 4, in which the second part (41) of the mounting device (40) comprises two arms (42), each carrying a guide cylinder (46),
in which a cradle (43) connects the two arms (42) of the second part (41) of the mounting device (40),
wherein the first part (51) of the mounting device (40) comprises two parallel rods (52), preferably extending in a horizontal plane, each engaged in a guide cylinder (46) of the second part (41) , and
wherein a cradle (53) connects the two rods (52) of the first part (51) of the mounting device (40). Construction machine according to Claim 4 or 5, in which at least one rod (56) of the movable part (51) of the mounting device (40) is provided with a nut (55) screwed onto a thread provided at the front end of the rod (52), and
in which the downstream module (30) is slidably mounted on at least one rod (52) of the movable part (51) of the mounting device (40). A construction machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one locking member (57) of the mounting device (40) is a locking pin (57), said locking pin (57) being configured to engage in a locking hole (56) of the first part (51) of the mounting device (40) and to be retained, once engaged in this locking hole (56), by a portion (45) of the second part (41) of the mounting device (40). A construction machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a drive device (60), a transmission shaft (62), connected to the output (61) of the drive device (60) and s' extending in the direction of the upstream flange (11a), and in which the transmission shaft (62) is provided, at its front end, with a coupling part (64) configured to couple the transmission shaft (62) ) to the rotor of the progressive cavity pump (20). A construction machine according to claim 8, in which the coupling part (64) is configured to transmit a rotational torque while allowing axial translational movement of the rotor of the progressive cavity pump (20), at least towards the end. 'front, and in which the downstream module (30) comprises a stopper configured to block the forward axial translation of the rotor of the progressive cavity pump (20). Construction machine according to Claim 9, in which the coupling part (64) has a profile with hollow sides, comprising 3 or 4 sides, designed to receive a drive head of the rotor of the progressive cavity pump (20). . A construction machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising said progressive cavity pump (20). A method of replacing a progressive cavity pump on a construction machine according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising the following steps: release of the locking member (57), retraction of the movable part (51) of the assembly device (40) integral with the downstream module (30), removal of the progressive cavity pump (20) initially in place, installation of the new progressive cavity pump (20) against a first flange among the upstream flange (11a) of the frame (10) and the downstream flange (31a) of the downstream module (30), moving part (51) of the assembly device (40) secured to the downstream module (30) until the new progressive cavity pump (20) is in contact with the second flange among the upstream flange (11a) of the frame (10) and the downstream flange (31a) of the downstream module (30), and blocking of the locking member (57).

Images