WO2016086255A1 - Perfectionnements apportés ou se rapportant à des contenants de transport de matériau en vrac - Google Patents

Perfectionnements apportés ou se rapportant à des contenants de transport de matériau en vrac Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016086255A1
WO2016086255A1 PCT/AU2014/001105 AU2014001105W WO2016086255A1 WO 2016086255 A1 WO2016086255 A1 WO 2016086255A1 AU 2014001105 W AU2014001105 W AU 2014001105W WO 2016086255 A1 WO2016086255 A1 WO 2016086255A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
operative means
container
closure assembly
operable
operative
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2014/001105
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Ionel POPESCU
Original Assignee
Mineral Resources (Equipment) Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Mineral Resources (Equipment) Pty Ltd filed Critical Mineral Resources (Equipment) Pty Ltd
Priority to AU2014413346A priority Critical patent/AU2014413346A1/en
Priority to BR112017011907A priority patent/BR112017011907A2/pt
Priority to PCT/AU2014/001105 priority patent/WO2016086255A1/fr
Publication of WO2016086255A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016086255A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B61—RAILWAYS
    • B61D—BODY DETAILS OR KINDS OF RAILWAY VEHICLES
    • B61D7/00—Hopper cars
    • B61D7/02—Hopper cars with discharge openings in the bottoms
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B61—RAILWAYS
    • B61D—BODY DETAILS OR KINDS OF RAILWAY VEHICLES
    • B61D7/00—Hopper cars
    • B61D7/14—Adaptations of hopper elements to railways
    • B61D7/16—Closure elements for discharge openings
    • B61D7/24—Opening or closing means
    • B61D7/28—Opening or closing means hydraulic or pneumatic

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of bulk material transport containers, and, in at least one aspect, to bulk material transport containers used in roiling discharge environments.
  • transport containers for carrying different types of bulk materials (for example, bulk material such as particulate material, sand gravel aggregate, plastic pellets, grains, ores, coal or other granular material).
  • bulk material such as particulate material, sand gravel aggregate, plastic pellets, grains, ores, coal or other granular material.
  • rail wagons are designed for different types of loading/unloading arrangements. For instance, some rail wagons are designed having an open top through which material is loaded and unloaded. An example of such an arrangement is a rotary tipper in which loading of material is achieved by way of an open top, and unloading is affected by physically rotating the wagon unit so that the loaded material discharges from the container by way of gravity.
  • Other examples of bulk material transport containers include those carried by trailer/haulage units used on road ways.
  • FIG. 1 Another form of rail wagon is that of the bottom discharging type (such as a hopper style wagon). In such configurations, bulk material is loaded into the container through an open top region, but unloading occurs due to gates or doors (often referred to above).
  • Embodiments of the first principal aspect, and those which follow, may incorporate any of the following features:
  • the system of the first principal aspect may be used in environments in which unloading of bulk material is by way of rolling discharge type arrangements.
  • multiple containers (provided by way of rail wagons) are sequentially processed at an unloading facility, often provided near a shipping port.
  • the containers are arranged in-line on a rail network and proceed through the unloading facility in an appropriate manner (generally at an appropriate steady state speed), discharging their contents (ie. bulk material) in-turn.
  • the bulk material is discharged through closure assemblies provided at the base of the containers where it is then conveyed to a storage area by way of a conveying transport arrangement.
  • the first operative means is configured operable with the second operative means for operating the closure assembly to or toward a closed condition.
  • the system is configured so that operation of the closure assembly can occur when the first operative means and the second operative means are within a proximity of each other so as they may interface or interact so as to operate the closure assembly.
  • the first operative means is provided or associated with a region of the container which may be brought into sufficient proximity of the second operative means so that they may interface or interact with one another so as to operate the closure assembly.
  • the interface or interaction between the first and second operative means is by way of physical contact there between.
  • wireless, radio frequency or other technology in which physical contact is not required could be employed.
  • the nature of the proximity is such that the first operative means and the second operative means may interface with one another by way of an appropriate wireless means, such as for example, an appropriate wireless protocol, or an appropriate radio frequency technology system.
  • the second operative means is arranged so as to be separate from the container.
  • the first operative means is provided at a region of the container in a manner such that the first operative means may be brought into sufficient proximity of the second operative means by way of the container moving relative to a host structure on which the second operative means is provided.
  • the region of the container at which the first operative means is provided is selected such that the first operative means may be brought into sufficient proximity of the second operative means by way of the container moving relative to a host structure on which the second operative means is provided.
  • the second operative means is provided in the form of a device managed/operated by a human user so as to selectively operate the first operative means for causing the closure assembly to be moved to or toward the open or closed conditions.
  • the user brings the device into sufficient proximity of the first operative means (so as to cause or provoke the interface or interact between the first and second operative means) for causing operation of the closure assembly.
  • the second operative means is provided with or associated with a host structure such as for example a fixed structure such as a building (for example) or like structure.
  • the host structure could form part of an unloading facility at which bulk material transported in the container is unloaded or discharged.
  • the second operative means is provided on any portion or region of the structure of the unloading facility which provides suitable positioning for allowing the second operative means to interface or interact with the first operative means so that the closure assembly can be operated as required.
  • the supporting structure for the second operative means is configured so that the second operative means may interface sufficiently with the first operative means.
  • the supporting structure for the second operative means is configured so that it may be adjustable or variable in one or more freedoms of movement (for example, horizontally and/or vertically) so that the second operative means can be positioned appropriately for interfacing with the first operative means provided with the container.
  • the supporting structure for the second operative means may be configured so as to be adjustable so that the second operative means may suitably match the height or positioning of the first operative means.
  • the supporting structure for the second operative means may be configured so as to be moveable to and from an operable position - the operable position being one in which the second operative means is in position to interface with the first operative means when both are in sufficient proximity.
  • the supporting structure for the second operative means may be configured so that it is rotatable about a vertical axis.
  • the supporting structure for the second operative means is arranged so as to be driven about the vertical axis of rotation by way of an electrical motor.
  • an electrical motor may be adapted so as to rotatably drive the supporting structure for the second operative means about the vertical axis of rotation for positioning the operative means appropriately.
  • the second operative means comprises a support assembly configured for supporting the second operative means in an appropriate position for interfacing or interacting with the first operative means.
  • the support assembly of the second operative means is configured so as to allow for adjustability of the position of the second operative means by way of at least one of: rotation about a substantially vertically aligned axis, variability in a substantially vertical plane, or variability in a substantially horizontal plane.
  • first operative means and the second operative means are arranged relative one another so that each may interface or interact with one another when the first operative means is brought toward the second operative means by way of an intended path of travel to be taken by the container.
  • the first operative means is provided or associated with a region of the container which is brought into sufficient proximity of the second operative means by way of an intended path of travel to be taken by the container.
  • the first operative means is provided on an external facing side of the container. It will be appreciated that the first operative means may be provided on an external facing side of the side wall or an external facing portion or region of a chassis or like structure of the container.
  • the first operative means is provided at or near a corner region of the container.
  • first operative means and the second operative means may be brought into sufficient proximity with one another by way of the container being moved in a direction which causes a portion of the first operative means to come into physical contact with a portion of the second operative means.
  • first operative means and the second operative means are provided at corresponding heights relative one another so that each may interface or interact with one another.
  • first operative means and second operative means are provided at corresponding heights relative one another so that engagement or contact there between can occur.
  • the first operative means is provided at or near a corner region of the container.
  • the first operative means is provided at or near the upper most edge of the container, and at or near one of its corners.
  • the first operative means is supported in place at a desired region of the container by way of a supporting structure.
  • the supporting structure may be suitably connected with the container or associated chassis structure so as to project or position the first operative means appropriately for allowing contact with the second operative means to occur.
  • the first operative means comprises one or more contact members.
  • the or each contact members are provided in the form of electrical contact plates.
  • the or each electrical contact plates are configured as part of an electrical circuit.
  • each electrical contact plates are arranged in a vertical manner.
  • the second operative means comprises one or more projections.
  • the or each projections may be arranged as part of a trigger or switching assembly.
  • the or each projection is configured so as to extend outward from a host structure to which the second operative means is associated with or supported by.
  • the or each projection comprises one or more electrical contact elements and/or one or more micro switches.
  • the or each electrical contact elements or the or each micro switches are arranged in electrical association with a power source.
  • the or each projection are configured so as to be moveable between a first position, in which the or each projection extends away from the host structure, and a second position in which the or each projection is deflected from the first position.
  • movement of the or each projection element from the first position to the second or deflected position occurs by way of an interaction with the first operative means.
  • physical engagement between the first operative means and the trigger assembly due to movement of the container causes the projection to deflect toward the second position.
  • the or each projection is configured so as to be biased toward the first position, in this manner, the when the or each projection is deflected, it is able to return to the first position once interaction with the first operative means ceases.
  • first operative means and the second operative means can be reversed.
  • the or each projection of the second operative means may be embodied for operation as the first operative means, and the contact members of the first operative means may be configured or embodied for operation as the second operative means.
  • the or each projection are provided with the container at a region thereon so as they may interact with the contact members of the second operative means so as to facilitate or initiate operation of the closure assembly.
  • the first operative means is arranged in operable association with the closure assembly.
  • the operable association could be an electrical association.
  • first operative means and the second operative means may be parts of an otherwise incomplete electrical circuit, completion of which
  • RO/AU results from the first operative means and the second operative means interfacing or interacting with one another for allowing operation of the closure assembly.
  • the first operative means is operably associated with a closure operating mechanism which is configured for operating the closure assembly when the first operative means and second operative means interface or interact with one another.
  • first operative means and the second operative means are arranged in electrical association with one another in a manner in which contact there between initiates operation of the closure assembly or a closure operating mechanism configured for operating the closure assembly.
  • the first operative means is arranged in electrical association with a closure operating mechanism which is arranged in operable association with the closure assembly so as to operate the closure assembly to or toward either the open condition or the closed condition.
  • first operative means and the second operative means may be arranged in electrical association with one another in a manner in which contact there between initiates operation of the closure assembly or closure operating mechanism.
  • the closure operating mechanism comprises an actuator operable for driving the closure assembly to or toward either of the open condition or the closed condition.
  • the closure assembly comprises one or more closure elements, the or each closure element configured so as to be moveable to or toward the open condition or the closed condition.
  • movement of the or each closure element to substantially the open condition allows materia! held within the container to be unloaded, and, movement of the or each closure element to the closed condition allows material to be substantially held or contained within the container for transportation purposes.
  • system is configured for causing the closure operating mechanism to move the or each closure element to or toward the open condition for
  • system is configured for causing the closure operating mechanism to move the or each closure element to or toward the closed condition subsequent to unloading of material contained within the container at the unloading facility.
  • the first operative means provided with the container and the second operative means separate from the container operate as a component pair for operating the closure assembly to or toward one of the open or the closed condition when the first operative means and the second operative means interface of interact with one another.
  • deflection of the or each projection causes the or each micro-switches to actuate or become operable.
  • actuation of the micro-switches facilitates a flow or transmission of electrical energy via the electrical contact elements of the or each projection so that the or each closure assembly becomes operable.
  • actuation or operation of the micro-switches facilitates a flow or transmission of electrical energy from the second operative means to the first operative means by way of the contact between the electrical contact elements of the or each projection and the contact members of the first operative means, so allowing the or each closure assembly to become operable.
  • transmission of the electrical energy serves to operate one or more solenoid valves configured to control the release of fluid from a fluid source, !n this such arrangements, the fluid source is provided under pressure.
  • the release of fluid from the fluid supply source forces fluid into pneumatic cylinders of the pneumatic actuators.
  • the system comprises a third operative means provided with the container and configured operable with a fourth operative means separate from the
  • RO/AU container for operating the closure assembly to or toward one of the open condition or the closed condition.
  • the third operative means provided with the container is configured operable with the fourth operative means separate from the container for operating the closure assembly to or toward the closed condition.
  • the third operative means can be configured in accordance with any embodiment of the first operative means described herein. In this manner, the third operative means is configured in a substantially similar manner as the first operative means.
  • the fourth operative means can be configured in accordance with any embodiment of the second operative means described herein. In this manner, the fourth operative means is configured in a substantially similar manner as the second operative means.
  • first operative means and the third operative means are provided external of the container (or associated container structure), and arranged substantially diagonally opposite one another about the container (or associated container structure).
  • the first operative means and the third operative means are provided external of the container (or associated container structure), and arranged substantially diagonally opposite one another at or near an upper most region of the container (or associated container structure).
  • the second and fourth operative means are provided on respective host structures so that the first operative means may interface or interact with the second operative means for operating the closure assembly to or toward the open condition, and the third operative means may interface or interact with the fourth operative means for operating the closure assembly to or toward the closed condition.
  • interaction between the first/second operative means and the third/fourth operative means is by way of the intended movement of the container (for example, by way of rolling movement through the
  • the third operative means is configured in a substantially similar manner as the first operative means.
  • the fourth operative means is configured in a substantially similar manner as the second operative means.
  • the fourth operative means comprises a support assembly configured for supporting the fourth operative means in an appropriate position for interfacing or interacting with the third operative means.
  • the fourth operative means is configured so as to allow for adjustability of the position of the fourth operative means by way of at least one of: rotation about a substantially vertically aligned axis, variability in a substantially vertical plane, or variability in a substantially horizontal plane.
  • the electrical contact plates are fitted external of the container or container structure, and substantially arranged diagonally opposite one another at the top corner of the container or container structure.
  • the electrical contact plates are configured so as to be actuated by the trigger assembly/system fitted at an unloading facility (such as for example a facility provided at a port) which is powered by way of a power source.
  • an unloading facility such as for example a facility provided at a port
  • current will flow to the solenoid valves causing operation of the closure assembly.
  • the or each projection are configured having a switch means (such as for example a micro switch) associated therewith, the switch means configured so as to actuate or initiate operation of the closure assembly when the projection is deflected to the second position. Actuation or initiation of operation of the closure assembly may occur at any point during the deflection of the projection to or toward the second position. It will be appreciated that deflection of the projection is caused due to contact by way of the first operative means.
  • a switch means such as for example a micro switch
  • the system comprises an electrical control means configured for controlling and/or regulating the output voltage when the first and the second operative means interface or interact.
  • the interaction of the first and the second operative means serves to trigger an operable condition (such as for example an 'on' condition) in which the closure assembly is operable to either the open condition or the closed condition.
  • an operable condition such as for example an 'on' condition
  • the operable condition is terminated and the closure assembly is non- operable and remains in the condition it was last operated to or toward.
  • the nominal operating voltage of the solenoid(s) is about 24 volts.
  • the electrical control means regulates and/or controls operation of the nominal operating voltage.
  • the operable condition is triggered and the closure assembly will move to or toward the open condition so that the material held in the container can be allowed to discharge.
  • the physical contact between the first operative means and the second operative means causes one of the first or second operative means to physically deflect.
  • the physical contact between the third operative means and the fourth operative means causes one of the third or fourth operative means to physically deflect.
  • RO/AU therefrom could be by way of an alternate means.
  • the interaction need not be by way of physical contact, but could occur by any form of wireless or induction type means.
  • the nature of the proximity is such that the first operative means and the second operative means or the third operative means and the fourth operative means may interact with one another by way of an appropriate wireless means, such as for example, an appropriate wireless protocol, or an appropriate radio frequency technology system.
  • an appropriate wireless means such as for example, an appropriate wireless protocol, or an appropriate radio frequency technology system.
  • the first operative means and the second operative means could interact by way of radio frequency technology, the effect of which serves to facilitate operation of the closure assembly of a container or rail wagon.
  • radio frequency technology the effect of which serves to facilitate operation of the closure assembly of a container or rail wagon.
  • many other technologies could be adapted for use with the principals of the system described herein.
  • a number of the embodiments described herein rely on physical contact between the first operative means provided with the container and the second operative means separate from the container, this manner should not be seen as limiting the scope of the interactions that might be possible.
  • the first operative means is configured as part of a first circuit
  • the second operative means is configured as part of a second circuit
  • the first and second circuits being provided in communication with each other for operating the or each closure assembly or associated closure operating mechanisms when the first and second operative means interface or interact.
  • the first and second circuits are configured operable by way of electrical energy.
  • the third operative means is configured as part of a third circuit
  • the fourth operative means is configured as part of a fourth circuit
  • the third and fourth circuits being provided in communication with each other for operating the or each closure assembly or associated closure operating mechanisms when the third and fourth operative means interface or interact.
  • the third and fourth circuits are configured operable by way of electrical energy.
  • the first and/or third circuits are provided with the container.
  • the second and/or fourth circuits are provided separate from the container.
  • the second and fourth circuits are provided with a host facility (such as for example a rolling discharge facility).
  • the second and fourth circuits are arranged so as to draw power from a shared source.
  • the first and third circuits are configured operable with one another. However, each may be arranged so as to operate separately.
  • a system for operating a closure assembly carried by a container configured for transporting bulk material, the closure assembly arranged operable to or toward an open condition for the discharge of materia! from the container and to or toward a closed condition comprising: a first operative means provided with the container and configured operable with a second operative means separate from the container for operating the closure assembly to or toward the open condition; and a third operative means provided with the container and configured operable with a fourth operative means separate from the container for operating the closure assembly to or toward the closed condition.
  • Embodiments of the second principal aspect may incorporate any of the features described in relation to the first principal aspect.
  • the first operative means is provided in the form of the first operative means of the system of the first principal aspect;
  • the second operative means is provided in the form of the second operative means of the system of the first principal aspect;
  • the third operative means is provided in the form of the first operative means of the system of the first principal aspect;
  • the fourth operative means is provided in the form of the second operative means of the system of the first principal aspect.
  • the first operative means and the third operative means are provided at opposite sides of the container from each other.
  • the first operative means and the third operative means are placed at regions of the container which substantially diametrically oppose one another.
  • the first operative means and the third operative means are operably associated with each for operating the closure assembly when each interface or interact with the second operative means and the fourth operative means respectively.
  • the first operative means and the third operative means are configured operable with the second operative means and the fourth operative means respectively for operating the closure assembly when each respective pair interfaces or interacts.
  • the first operative means and the third operative means are part of the same electrical circuit.
  • a container configured for carrying bulk material by road or rail and having a closure assembly arranged operable to or toward an open condition for the discharge of material held in the container, the container configured so as to be in operable association with a system arranged in accordance with the first or second principal aspects for operating the closure assembly.
  • a hopper style container configured for carrying bulk material by road or rail and having a closure assembly arranged operable to or toward at least an open condition for the discharge of material held in the container, the container configured so as to be in operable association with a system arranged in accordance with the first or second principal aspects for operating the closure assembly to or toward at least the open condition.
  • a rail wagon configured for carrying bulk material and having a closure assembly arranged operable to or toward at least an open condition for the discharge of material
  • a hopper style rail wagon configured for carrying bulk material and having a closure assembly arranged operable to or toward at least an open condition for the discharge of material held in the container, the rail wagon configured so as to be in operable association with a system arranged in accordance with the first or second principal aspects for operating the closure assembly to or toward at least the open condition.
  • Embodiments of the container/rail wagons (hopper style or otherwise) of the third to sixth principal aspects may incorporate any of the features described in relation to the first or second principal aspects.
  • a method for operably configuring a system for operating a closure assembly carried by a container configured for transporting bulk material, the closure assembly arranged operable to or toward at least an open condition for the discharge of material from the container comprising configuring the system in a manner in which a first operative means provided with the container is configured operable with a second operative means separate from the container for operating the closure assembly to or toward at least the open condition.
  • a method for operably configuring a system for operating a closure assembly carried by a container configured for transporting bulk material, the closure assembly arranged operable to or toward an open condition for the discharge of material from the container and to or toward a closed condition comprising configuring the system in a manner in which a first operative means provided with the container is configured operable with a second operative means separate from the container for operating the closure assembly to or toward the open condition; and a third operative means provided with the container is configured operable with a fourth operative means separate from the container for operating the closure assembly to or toward the closed condition.
  • a method for operably configuring a hopper style container of the fourth principal aspect so as to be in operable association with a system arranged in accordance with the first or second principal aspects for operating the closure assembly.
  • a method for operably configuring rail wagon of the fifth principal aspect so as to be in operable association with a system arranged in accordance with the first or second principai aspects for operating the closure assembly.
  • Embodiments of the methods of the seventh to twelfth principal aspects may incorporate any of the features of the system of the first or second aspects described herein.
  • a facility arranged for the unloading or discharge of bulk material, the facility configured operable with a system and/or a container described herein.
  • a rolling discharge facility arranged for the unloading or discharge of bulk material, the facility configured operable with a system and/or a container described herein.
  • a method of operably configuring a facility arranged for the unloading or discharge of bulk material comprising configuring the facility in a manner in which the facility is operable with a system and/or a container described herein.
  • the facilities of the above described principal aspects are configured capable of processing a plurality of the containers when moving.
  • the containers are provided in-line with one another and arranged to move at a speed of between about 2 to about 4 km/hr.
  • a closure assembly operable to or toward an open condition, the method comprising:
  • the method further comprises causing a third operative means associated with the container and a fourth operative means not associated with the container to interface or interact, the third operative means and the fourth operative means being configured operable with one another for causing the closure assembly to become operable to or toward a closed condition due to said interfacing or interaction.
  • first operative means and the second operative means are part of any embodiment of the system described herein.
  • the third operative means and the fourth operative means are part of any embodiment of the system described herein.
  • the container is configured in accordance with any embodiment of the container or rail wagon described herein.
  • the method includes configuring a plurality of containers so as to be operable with any embodiment of the system described herein.
  • the method is performed at a rolling discharge facility.
  • the second operative means is associated with the discharge facility.
  • the plurality of containers are arranged so that they may be processed through the rolling discharge facility in a sequential manner.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a rail wagon arranged for use with one embodiment of the system described herein;
  • Figure 2 shows a further perspective view of the rail wagon shown in Figure 1 when viewed from below showing two closure assemblies;
  • Figure 3 shows a schematic end view of a closure assembly used with the rail wagon shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, when in a closed condition;
  • Figure 4 shows a schematic end view of the closure assembly used with the rail wagon shown in Figure 3, when in an open condition;
  • Figure 5A shows a close up perspective view of the embodiment of the
  • Figure 5B shows a further close up perspective view of that shown in Figure 5A;
  • RO/AU Figure 6 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of one component of the system described herein;
  • Figure 7 shows a schematic plan view of one operational implementation of an embodiment of the system described herein;
  • Figure 8 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of one component of the system described herein;
  • Figure 9 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of one component of the system described herein;
  • Figure 10 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of one component of the system described herein;
  • Figure 11 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the system described herein in operation
  • Figure 12 shows a electro-pneumatic schematic overview of one implementation of the operation of an embodiment of the system described herein;
  • Figure 13 shows the relevant portion of an end view of one embodiment of the container when embodied as a rail wagon showing one arrangement of the electro- pneumatic circuitry arranged in accordance with the schematic overview shown in Figure 12;
  • Figure 14 shows the relevant portion of a bottom view of the embodiment shown in Figure 3.
  • Figure 5 shows the relevant portion of an elevation view of the embodiment shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14.
  • the invention described herein may include one or more range of values (eg. size, displacement and field strength etc).
  • range of values eg. size, displacement and field strength etc.
  • RO/AU include ali values within the range, including the values defining the range, and values adjacent to the range which lead to the same or substantially the same outcome as the values immediately adjacent to that value which defines the boundary to the range.
  • Figure 1 and Figure 2 both show a rail road container assembly 4 configured for carrying bulk material for rail road transportation.
  • the rail road container assembly 4 comprises a container 8 having side wall assemblies 12a, 12b and end wall assemblies 16a, 16b configured so as to define an internal region 20 capable of receiving and retaining bulk material (or like product) for transportation purposes.
  • the container 8 of the container assembly 4 is configured as a hopper style container in which bulk material is loaded into the internal region 20 of the container 8 through an open top region 24, and discharged through a lower region 26 by way of first 30 and second 34 closure assemblies (by way of the action of gravity).
  • the first closure assembly 30 comprises door units 32, 33 configured so as to be moveable to or toward open and closed conditions about axes of rotation D1 and D2 respectively (see Figure 3 and Figure 4).
  • second closure assembly 34 comprises door units 36, 37 also configured so as to be moveable to or toward open and closed conditions about corresponding axes of rotation.
  • the rail road container assembly 4 is configured operable with associated bogie assemblies 38 and 42 to allow the container assembly 4 to travel along an appropriate rail network (not shown). It will be appreciated that the bogie assemblies 38 and 42, and other associated components,
  • RO/AU will be well understood by those skilled in the art and are therefore not described in further detail herein.
  • first 30 and second 34 closure assemblies are affected by way of respective first 46 and second 50 closure operating mechanisms respectively, each closure operating mechanism being configured for operating or moving respective door units about axes D1 and D2 to or toward the closed condition (shown in Figure 3) and open condition (shown in Figure 4).
  • Physical movement of the door units of the respective closure assemblies is actuable using pneumatic actuators 45 operable by way of an electro-pneumatic circuit arrangement 49 (see Figure 12).
  • Operation of the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 is affected by a system comprising a first operative means (provided in the form of a contact assembly 55) associated with the container 8 and configured so as to be operable by way of an appropriate interface or interaction event with a second operative means (provided in the form of a trigger assembly 60) which is arranged separate from the container 8.
  • a first operative means provided in the form of a contact assembly 55
  • a second operative means provided in the form of a trigger assembly 60
  • Figure 5A and Figure 5B both show close up perspective views of one embodiment of the contact assembly 55.
  • the contact assembly 55 is arranged at or near an upper region of a corner region of the container 8 (as shown in Figure 1).
  • the contact assembly 55 is supported in position relative to the container 8 by way of a support structure 64.
  • the contact assembly 55 comprises two electrical contact plates 68a, 68b (arranged in a vertical manner in the embodiment shown) which are supported by the support assembly 64 in an exposed manner.
  • the two contact plates 68a, 68b are arranged so as to be supported in an appropriate position on the container 8 so that they can interact with lever members 120a, 120b (arranged also in a vertical manner in the embodiment shown) of the trigger assembly 60 (described below) when provided with a host structure.
  • the support structure 64 can be configured in any manner capable of providing adequate support to the contact assembly 55 in view of the environment in which the container 8 operates.
  • the system is arranged operable by way of movement of the container 8 in bringing the contact assembly 55 into proximity
  • the trigger assembly 60 is configured having lever members 120a, 120b with respective electrodes which are arranged to be operable with power supply equipment (provided separate from the container 8) for transferring electromagnetic signals when a physical interaction occurs between the levers 120a, 120b and contact plates 68a, 68b so as to operate the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50. interaction of the trigger assembly 60 and the contact assembly 55 causes the power supply equipment (by way of contact induction) to become operable so as to generate and provide power to operate solenoid valves which operate the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 which, in turn, moves the closure assemblies (30, 34).
  • the electrodes of the levers 120a, 120b of the trigger assembly 60 when contact is made with the contact members 68a, 68b of the contact assembly 55, facilitate the transfer of an electrical impulse(s) so as to operate and open the relevant solenoid valve(s). Opening of the solenoid valve(s) serves to permit the flow of air from an air supply source to the pneumatic cylinder of the actuators 45 resulting in the closure assemblies 30, 34 being operated (by way of movement of the driving portion or piston of the pneumatic cylinder) to or toward the open condition (so allowing discharge of material held within the container).
  • Embodiments of the trigger assembly 60 are shown in Figures 8 to 11.
  • the lever members 120a, 120b are configured in association with respective micro-switches 125a, 125b, all of which are supported by way of a mounting plate 130.
  • Each lever member 120a, 120b is operable with respective biasing assemblies 122a, 122b so that each can be moveable between an extended position (a normal position ready for interacting with an approaching contact assembly 55), and a deflected position in which contact with the contact assembly 55 causes the lever members 120a, 120b to deflect out of the path of movement of the container 8 (or rail wagon 90) as it progresses through the unloading facility 95 (so as to avoid damaging the trigger assembly 60).
  • Deflection of the Sever members 120a, 120b serves to actuate micro-switches 125a, 125b which facilitates the transfer of electrical energy.
  • actuation of the micro-switches 125a, 125b serves to actuate or initiate operation of the closure assemblies 30, 34 (by way of the closure opeating mechanisms 46, 50) when the levers 120a, 120b are deflected.
  • Actuation or initiation of operation of the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 of the closure assemblies 30, 34 can be configured to occur at any point during the deflection of the levers 20a, 120b.
  • Figure 6 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the trigger assembly 60 provided with a host structure 72.
  • the trigger assembly 60 is supported in position with the host structure 72 by way of a support assembly 76 which includes a support arm 80 and support bracket arrangement 84.
  • FIG. 7 a schematic illustrating operation of the system in practice is shown.
  • Multiple containers 8 embodied as rail wagons 90
  • the rail wagons 90 are arranged inline on a rail network 100 and proceed through (in the direction F) the unloading facility 95, discharging their contents (ie. bulk material) in-turn.
  • the bulk material is discharged through closure assemblies 30, 34 provided at the base of the containers where it is then conveyed to a storage area by way of a conveying transport arrangement.
  • each rail wagon 90 comprises an embodiment of the system described herein, which includes the contact assembly 55 which is configured operable with an embodiment of the trigger assembly 60 which is provided at a region of the unloading facility 95 as shown.
  • the contact assembly 55 which is configured operable with an embodiment of the trigger assembly 60 which is provided at a region of the unloading facility 95 as shown.
  • RO/AU wagon 90 is discharged.
  • the closure assemblies will be caused to operate toward the closed condition and the rail wagon will leave the vicinity of the unloading facility 95.
  • each rail wagon 90 progresses towards the discharge zone 105, its contact assembly 55 will be brought into proximity of the trigger assembly 60 provided with the unloading facility 95 so that both may physically interact.
  • the physical interaction between the contact assembly 55 and the trigger assembly 60 will occur. This interaction will be operable to cause the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 to become operable at the appropriate time so as to open the closure assemblies 30, 34 to the open condition.
  • Figure 11 shows an image illustrating the physical interaction between the contact assembly 55 and the trigger assembly 60.
  • each rail wagon 90 is provided with a second contact assembly 110.
  • a second trigger assembly 115 is provided with the unloading facility 95 at a region different to that where the trigger assembly 60 is provided.
  • each rail wagon 90 progresses through the discharge facility 95 following a discharge event, its second contact assembly 1 10 will be brought into proximity of the second trigger assembly 15.
  • a physical interaction between the second contact assembly 110 and the second trigger assembly 115 will occur. This interaction will be operable to cause the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 to become operable to operate the closure assemblies 30, 34 to the closed condition.
  • the relative positioning of the trigger assemblies 60, 115 is, at least in part, informed by the duration of time required or allowed for the unloading of the container 8 to occur, and/or the speed of the container 8 during the unloading process. As will be understood by the skilled reader, sufficient time needs to be provided so that substantially all material carried in the container 8 is unloaded. Thus, the positioning of the trigger assemblies 60, 115 about the unloading facility 95 requires due consideration so as to ensure that operation of the closure assemblies 30,
  • RO/AU 34 occurs at the appropriate time (and height) relative to the physical location of the discharge zone 105.
  • the contact assembly 55 and the second contact assembly 110 are provided on different sides of each rail wagon 90. Specifically, the contact assembly 55 and the second contact assembly 0 diametrically oppose one another on each rail wagon 90. Furthermore, the trigger assembly 60 and the second trigger assembly 115 are provided at opposing sides of the unloading facility 95 about the rail tracks 99 of the rail network 100.
  • the relative positioning of the contact assembly 55 and the second contact assembly 110 can be adjusted depending on the relative positioning of the trigger assembly 60 and the second trigger assembly 115.
  • the contact assembly 55 and the second contact assembly 115 could be provided on the same side of the unloading facility (for example at different heights) and positioned such that the closure assemblies 30, 34 of the rail wagons 90 are operable in accordance with the location of the discharge zone 105 to achieve the desired aim ie. the generally automated discharging of bulk materia! at the required time/position.
  • the system comprises an electrical control means configured for controlling and/or regulating the output voltage when the contact assembly 55 and the trigger assembly 60 interface or interact (and indeed the second contact assembly 10 and the second trigger assembly 115).
  • an operable condition such as for example an 'on' condition
  • the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 become operable to operate the closure assemblies 30, 34.
  • the interaction ceases, the operable condition is terminated and the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 become non- operable and the closure assemblies 30, 34 remain in the condition they were last operated to or toward.
  • the levers 120 and associated micro- switches 125 are supported by way of mounting plate 130 which, in turn, is supported by bracket arrangement 84 (including lower bracket sections 85a-c).
  • the mounting plate 130 is further supported by the support assembly 76 which includes support arm 80.
  • the support assembly 76 is attached to bracket mount 135 which is used to mount the support assembly 76 to a means by which the support assembly 76 (and therefore
  • the means by which the support assembly 76 can be rotated about a vertically aligned axis A is provided in the form of a powered driving assembly 145.
  • the powered driving assembly 145 is configured having a power module 150 operably associated with the support assembly 76 and configured so that the trigger assembly 60 can be rotated in and out of position as required about the axis A.
  • the trigger assembly 60 is movable into and out of position depending on operational requirements.
  • the support assembly 76 could be configured in many different ways sufficient for supporting the trigger assembly 60 in the appropriate position (for interfacing or interacting with the contact assembly 55). It will be appreciated that substantially the same is also the case for the second trigger assembly 1 5.
  • the supporting assembly 76 is therefore configured so that the trigger assembly 60 may interface or interact sufficiently with the contact assembly 55.
  • the support assembly 76 is configured so that it is adjustable in one or more freedoms of movement (for example, horizontally and/or vertically) so that the trigger assembly 60 can be positioned appropriately for interfacing/interacting with the contact assembly 55 as appropriate.
  • the supporting assembly 76 is configured so as to be sufficiently adjustable or variable so that the trigger assembly 60 may suitably match the height or positioning of the contact assembly 55. It will be appreciated that substantially the same is also the case for the second trigger assembly 115 (and its interaction with the second contact assembly 110).
  • the operative nature of the second contact assembly 110 and the second trigger assembly 115 is substantially the same as the operative nature of the contact assembly 55 and the trigger assembly 60.
  • the second contact assembly 110 is arranged in substantially the same form as the contact assembly 55
  • the second trigger assembly 115 is also arranged in substantially the same form as the trigger assembly 60 - albeit configured so as to cause the closure operating mechanisms to operate the closure assemblies to the closed condition following a discharge event. It will be appreciated however, that the second contact assembly 110 and the second trigger assembly 115, while being operably equivalent to
  • RO/AU the contact assembly 55 and the trigger assembly 60, could be arranged in a different manner so as to achieve the same aim, ie. operation of the closure assemblies 30, 34 of the container 8 to the closed condition.
  • FIG. 12 shows a schematic circuit diagram for the electro-pneumatic arrangement 49 used in the system described herein.
  • Figure 12 represents the electro-pneumatic arrangement 49 as fitted on the container assembly show in the Figures.
  • the electro-pneumatic arrangement 49 (or circuit) comprises an arrangement of the following: connecting conduit sections configured for providing a working line (602), compressed air supply (600), ball valves (605), check valves (610), Y-type filters (615), air reservoirs (620), ball drain valves (625), air vent ball valves (630), air supply treatment equipment components (635), two-position three-way manual button valves (640), silencers (645), three-position five-way bi-directional solenoid valves (650), hand operated valves, shuttle valves (655), pneumatic control valves (660), quick exhaust valves (pilot operated valves) (665), and working cylinders (670, of actuators 45).
  • Such an electro- pneumatic arrangement 49 is configured so as to be carried by the container assembly 4 (or rail
  • the contact assembly 55 is configured as part of a first circuit
  • the trigger assembly 60 is configured as part of a second circuit, in this manner, the first and second circuits are provided in communication with each other for operating the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 to the open condition when the contact assembly 55 and trigger assembly 60 interact.
  • the second contact assembly 110 is configured as part of a third circuit
  • the second trigger assembly 115 is configured as part of a fourth circuit, the third and fourth circuits being provided in communication with each other for operating the closure operating mechanisms 46, 50 to the closed condition when the second contact assembly 110 and the second trigger assembly 115 interact.
  • the first and third circuits are provided and arranged with the container assembly 4, and the second and fourth circuits are provided separate from the container, ie. with the host discharge facility.
  • the second and fourth circuits can be arranged so as to draw power from a shared source, or could be arranged so as to be isolated from one another.
  • the first and third circuits (those arranged with
  • RO/AU the container assembly 4 could also be arranged to operate together or could be a provided as isolated arrangements.
  • operation of the actuator 45 may be operable by way of any appropriate power circuit as may be required or known to the skilled person.
  • the actuator is a pneumatic cylinder
  • an appropriate air control system can be developed in a number of different ways for powering and controlling operation of the pneumatic cylinder.
  • a compressed air supply (600) will generally be present and arranged in communication with the actuators (45) by way of an appropriate air delivery/control circuit comprising an arrangement of components for facilitating operation of the pneumatic cylinder.
  • lever members 20a, 20b of the trigger assembly 60 may be embodied for operation on the container 8 in place of the contact assembly 55, and the contact members 68a, 68b of the contact assembly 55 may be configured or embodied for operation on the host structure (unloading facility) in place of the trigger assembly 60.
  • the lever members 120a, 120b are provided with the container 8 at a region thereon so that they may interact with the contact members 68a, 68b of the contact assembly 55 provided with the unloading facility so as to facilitate or initiate operation of the relevant closure operating mechanisms.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Filling Or Emptying Of Bunkers, Hoppers, And Tanks (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système pour faire fonctionner un ensemble de fermeture supporté par un contenant conçu pour le transport de matériau en vrac, l'ensemble de fermeture étant agencé de manière fonctionnelle pour aller jusqu'à un état ouvert pour la décharge de matériau à partir du contenant, ou vers cet état. Le système comprend un premier moyen fonctionnel pourvu du contenant et conçu de manière fonctionnelle avec un second moyen fonctionnel séparé du contenant pour faire fonctionner l'ensemble de fermeture. Dans des modes de réalisation préférés, des microrupteurs sont utilisés.
PCT/AU2014/001105 2014-12-05 2014-12-05 Perfectionnements apportés ou se rapportant à des contenants de transport de matériau en vrac WO2016086255A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2014413346A AU2014413346A1 (en) 2014-12-05 2014-12-05 Improvements in or relating to bulk material transport containers
BR112017011907A BR112017011907A2 (pt) 2014-12-05 2014-12-05 melhorias em ou relacionadas a contêineres de transporte de materiais a granel
PCT/AU2014/001105 WO2016086255A1 (fr) 2014-12-05 2014-12-05 Perfectionnements apportés ou se rapportant à des contenants de transport de matériau en vrac

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/AU2014/001105 WO2016086255A1 (fr) 2014-12-05 2014-12-05 Perfectionnements apportés ou se rapportant à des contenants de transport de matériau en vrac

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2016086255A1 true WO2016086255A1 (fr) 2016-06-09

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/AU2014/001105 WO2016086255A1 (fr) 2014-12-05 2014-12-05 Perfectionnements apportés ou se rapportant à des contenants de transport de matériau en vrac

Country Status (3)

Country Link
AU (1) AU2014413346A1 (fr)
BR (1) BR112017011907A2 (fr)
WO (1) WO2016086255A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN106347384A (zh) * 2016-10-13 2017-01-25 中车长江车辆有限公司 铁路漏斗车底门

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3730360A (en) * 1971-05-21 1973-05-01 Pullman Inc Unit train automatic unloading system
US5284097A (en) * 1990-10-31 1994-02-08 Loram Maintenance Of Way, Inc. Ballast distribution, regulation and reclaiming railroad maintenance device
US5359942A (en) * 1993-08-27 1994-11-01 Difco, Inc. Remote control positioning system for controlling hopper doors
US6758147B2 (en) * 2000-07-27 2004-07-06 The Burlington Northern And Santa Fe Railway Co. Ballast discharge system
US20050278982A1 (en) * 2004-06-17 2005-12-22 Herzog Contracting Corp. Method and apparatus for applying railway ballast

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3730360A (en) * 1971-05-21 1973-05-01 Pullman Inc Unit train automatic unloading system
US5284097A (en) * 1990-10-31 1994-02-08 Loram Maintenance Of Way, Inc. Ballast distribution, regulation and reclaiming railroad maintenance device
US5359942A (en) * 1993-08-27 1994-11-01 Difco, Inc. Remote control positioning system for controlling hopper doors
US6758147B2 (en) * 2000-07-27 2004-07-06 The Burlington Northern And Santa Fe Railway Co. Ballast discharge system
US20050278982A1 (en) * 2004-06-17 2005-12-22 Herzog Contracting Corp. Method and apparatus for applying railway ballast

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN106347384A (zh) * 2016-10-13 2017-01-25 中车长江车辆有限公司 铁路漏斗车底门

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
BR112017011907A2 (pt) 2018-01-16
AU2014413346A1 (en) 2017-06-29

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