Arrangement for controlling the rolling of a cylindrical object

Abstract

Apparatus for controlling rolling motion of a cylindrical object includes a fixed plane formed with guides that are spaced apart along a direction of rolling motion of the cylindrical object and provide a path from an upper surface of the plane to the underside of the plane. An elongate pressure element has a medial segment located on the upper surface of the fixed plane and has first and second ends that are guided to the underside of the plane via the first and second guides respectively. A control device has first and second connections and is operable selectively for providing a pressure medium under pressure discharging the pressure medium to a lower pressure. One of the first and second connections of the control device is connected to the first end of the elongate pressure element and the other of the first and second connections is connected to the second end of the elongate pressure element, for selectively filling the pressure element with a pressure medium through at least one of the first and second ends and for draining the pressure medium from the pressure element through at least one of the first and second ends.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 USC 119 of Finnish Patent Application No. 20050337 filed Mar. 31, 2005.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Technology

This invention relates to controlling the rolling of a cylindrical object such as a reel of paper.

2. Prior Art

Lots of cylindrical objects are moved at paper mills, print shops and metal rolling mills, for example. Different types of conveyors and cranes have been developed for the movement of cylindrical objects. Rolling is a known method.

When a cylindrical object is being rolled, its movement is controlled by different types of pushers and receivers. It is also known that a cylindrical object is rolled on a slightly inclined floor plane. However, it is difficult to roll large and heavy cylindrical objects, because rolling a heavy mass requires force. The pushers and receivers must be dimensioned to be strong, which makes them heavy and relatively large.

Reels of paper in particular are sensitive to damage caused by rolling. It is difficult to control the speed of the reel during rolling, and the speed may become higher than intended. This will easily make the reel bounce against the stopper and can cause mechanical damage on the surface of the paper reel. It is thus clear that stopping a heavy cylindrical object will also require a lot of force and a strong receiver.

Patent Publication FI 96759 describes a known stopper for a cylindrical object that can also be used as a retarder. The solution according to the publication comprises a fixed plane and a moving plane. One end of the moving plane is mounted to the base structure by hinges that allow the moving plane to move in relation to the axis formed by the hinge, creating an inclined plane. There is a compressible hose filled with a flowing pressure medium on top of the moving plane. There is another compressible hose between the moving plane and the fixed plane. The pressure medium can flow from the first hose into this second hose when a paper reel or other cylindrical object rolls on top of the stopper. The hose located on top of the moving plane will be compressed, and the pressure medium contained in the first hose tries to flow into the second hose. When the second hose becomes filled with the pressure medium, the second hose expands and the moving plane tilts up. The rolling object is thus stopped by the combined effect of the hose filled with pressure medium and the inclination of the moving plane that reduces the rolling speed of the reel. If the solution is used as a stopper, the reel will stop on top of the inclined plane. If the solution is used as a retarder, the reel is allowed to roll over the inclined plane without stopping. This solution is relatively heavy, and controlling the stopping of the reel on the inclined plane requires great accuracy. Furthermore, as the reel rolls over the inclined plane onto the horizontal plane, mechanical damage may arise on the surface of the reel.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The objective of the invention is to eliminate problems of prior art solutions.

An arrangement according to the invention comprises at least one pressure element, such as a compressible hose or mat, to be filled with a pressure medium. The pressure element has a first end and a second end.

The arrangement also comprises a fixed plane or table with conduits or guides for conducting the first and second ends of the pressure element located on top of the fixed plane to the underside of the plane. The conduit for the first end is located at a different part of the planned line of rolling the cylindrical object compared to the conduit for the second end.

Furthermore, the arrangement includes a control means for filling the pressure element with a pressure medium and draining it of the pressure medium, as well as a connection means for each end of the pressure element. The connection means can be used to connect the pressure element to the control means.

The control means can be used to fill the pressure element in a controlled manner through either or both ends of the pressure element, as well as drain it in a controlled manner through either or both ends. Thus the state of motion of the cylindrical object on top of the plane and the pressure element can be changed from a rolling state to a stopped state and vice versa in a controlled manner in the direction of the desired line of rolling.

The arrangement according to the invention provides for very good control of the rolling movement of a cylindrical object. Furthermore, the structure of the arrangement according to the invention is light compared to prior art solutions, as the state of motion of the cylindrical object can be controlled using force imposed on the object by a pressure element filled with a pressure medium, eliminating the need for other structures (such as pushers or stoppers).

Furthermore, the solution according to the invention is applicable for use on a horizontal as well as an inclined plane.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following, the invention is described in more detail by reference to the enclosed drawings, where

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an arrangement according to the invention in which the plane is inclined,

FIG. 2 illustrates an example of an arrangement according to the invention in which the plane is horizontal,

FIG. 3 illustrates an example of an embodiment of control means according to the invention,

FIG. 4 illustrates another example of an embodiment of control means according to the invention,

FIG. 5 illustrates a third example of an embodiment of control means according to the invention,

FIG. 6 illustrates a fourth example of an embodiment of control means according to the invention,

FIG. 7 illustrates a fifth example of an embodiment of control means according to the invention,

FIG. 8 illustrates a sixth example of an embodiment of control means according to the invention,

FIG. 9 illustrates an example with three arrangements according to the invention in sequence to create one large arrangement according to the invention,

FIG. 10 illustrates another example with three arrangements according to the invention in sequence to create one large arrangement according to the invention, and

FIG. 11 illustrates a third example with three arrangements according to the invention in sequence to create one large arrangement according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an arrangement according to the invention. In the arrangement illustrated in the example, the fixed plane 2 is inclined. The intention is that a cylindrical object 1, such as a reel of paper, is placed on the plane so that its direction of rolling is downwards along the inclined plane. The arrow in the figure illustrates the direction of rolling. There is a pressure element 3 on top of the plane, and it can be filled with a pressure medium. The pressure element may be a compressible hose or mat, for example. Several pressure elements may be placed on the plane side by side in the axial direction of the cylindrical object as will be discussed in detail below. Parallel pressure elements may be placed in a staggered arrangement. Pressure elements may also be placed sequentially on the plane.

Conduits or guides 4 are arranged on the plane 2 for conducting or passing the ends of the pressure element 3 below the top surface of the plane. The conduits for the ends of an individual pressure element are located at different positions along the planned line of rolling of the cylindrical object. The arrow in the figure also illustrates the direction of the line of rolling downwards on the inclined plane. Thus, when rolling, the cylindrical object can only press a single conduit of a pressure element end at a time.

The ends of the pressure element 3 that have been conducted below the top surface of the plane 2 are connected to a control means 6 using which the pressure element 3 can be filled with pressure medium and drained of pressure medium. The connection between the control means and the pressure element is carried out by using connectors 5 at both ends of the pressure element.

The control means 6 can be used to fill the pressure element 3 in a controlled manner through either or both ends of the pressure element, as well as drain it in a controlled manner through either or both ends. Filling and draining the pressure element using the control means makes it possible to change the state of motion of a cylindrical object on top of the plane 2 and the pressure element 3 from a rolling state to a stopped state and vice versa in a controlled manner in the direction of the desired line of rolling.

When the cylindrical object 1 rolls down the plane 2 in the example of FIG. 1, it compresses the pressure element 3. If the control means 6 is set to limit or prevent discharge of the pressure medium from the pressure element 3, the pressure of the pressure medium within the pressure element increases. This pressure is controlled by the control means 6 so that the rolling speed of the cylindrical object can be reduced or the object can be made to stop on top of the pressure element. The cylinder drawn with a dashed line illustrates the fact that the arrangement is suitable for different sizes of cylindrical objects 1.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example of an arrangement according to the invention in which the plane 22 is horizontal. Furthermore, FIG. 2 also shows a supply connector 20 for connecting the control means 6 to an external source 21 of pressure medium. The supply connector is used to supply the pressure medium to the control means 6 from which it can be further conducted to the pressure element 3.

The pressure medium may be compressed air or other compressed gas suitable for the purpose. The pressure medium may also be a suitable liquid such as water. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the circulation of the pressure medium is closed; thus, when the pressure element is drained, the pressure medium flowing out of the pressure element is recirculated within the control means for feeding it back to the pressure element. No external source of pressure medium is required. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the circulation of the pressure medium is open; when the pressure element is drained, the pressure medium flowing out of the pressure element is not recirculated but is conducted out of the control means. For example, compressed air may be released to ambient atmosphere. Water serving as a pressure medium may be conducted to the sewer.

The situation in FIG. 2 illustrates the versatile possibilities of the arrangement according to the invention to move a cylindrical object along its line of rolling. The bidirectional arrow illustrates this. In the situation in FIG. 2, the cylindrical object has rolled from the right to the left on top of the pressure element 3 and compressed the pressure element. The pressure in the left-hand section of the pressure element has increased, and the cylindrical object can be stopped by controlling the pressure. The stopped cylindrical object can be moved back to the right by using the control means 6 to increase the pressure of the pressure medium in the left-hand section of the pressure element 3. Alternatively, the movement of the stopped object can also be continued to the left by increasing the pressure of the pressure medium in the right-hand section of the pressure element 3.

In the situation in FIG. 2, the cylindrical object can be moved back and forth on the horizontal plane 22 but this is also possible on an inclined plane. In other words, the arrangement according to the invention also allows a cylindrical object to be moved upwards along an inclined plane.

The plane 2, 22 in an arrangement according to the invention is horizontal or is inclined in relation to the horizontal. The plane may be a sheet or mat placed on a base. The sheet may be a plywood board, for example. It is reasonable to use a mat if the cylindrical object is particularly sensitive to damage caused by rolling. The plane may also be a combination of a plywood board and a mat. The base for the plane may be a concrete slab or a separate support structure.

The plane has conduits 4 for the ends of the pressure elements. A conduit 4 may be an opening in the plane or a recess at an edge area of the plane. The edge of the plane may also be shaped to be more suitable for the end of the pressure element. In particular, the plane may be shaped at the opening or guide so that edges over which the pressure element passes are rounded, to avoid damage to the pressure element when the cylindrical object rolls over the pressure element by virtue of the pressure element being forced against a sharp edge. If a separate support structure is used as the base for the plane, space will remain or can easily be arranged below the plane 2, 22 for the placement of the pressure element ends, the connectors 5 and the control means 6. However, the control means may also be placed close to the plane, such as to the side of the area formed by the plane.

The surface of the base, such as concrete, can also serve as the plane 2, 22. In this case, the conduit 4 is a recess or opening in the base.

The control means 6 according to the invention may be implemented in several ways depending on the application. For example, if an application only requires a retarder for a cylindrical object, the control means does not need to be able to move the cylindrical object back and forth. Different types of control means may also be created for the same application. FIGS. 3 to 8 illustrate various embodiments of the control means 6.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example of an embodiment of the control means 6 according to the invention. In the embodiment, the control means 31 has a supply connection 20 to an external source of pressure medium and comprises a pressure relief valve 32 connected to the supply connection 20 to limit the pressure of the pressure medium, a pressure gauge 37 to indicate the pressure limited by the pressure relief valve, and a first choke valve 33 connected to the pressure relief valve on the side of pressure to be limited. Furthermore, the control means comprises a second choke valve 36 to limit the flow of the pressure medium from the pressure element to outside the control means 6, and a pressure control valve module 34 that is connected to the connectors 5 at the ends of the pressure element 3 and is connected to the first choke valve 33 and the second choke valve 36.

The pressure relief valve 32 can preferably be set to the desired value, while the pressure gauge 37 provides a readout of the pressure limited by the valve 32 and is thus used for setting the pressure. The pressure may be set to 3 bar, for example. The choke valves 33, 36 are used to affect the flow rates of the pressure medium.

The pressure control valve module 34 controls the filling of the pressure element 3 with the pressure medium and draining of the pressure medium from the pressure element 3. The module comprises two 3/2 pressure control valves 35, each of which has a port connected to the first choke valve 33 and also has a port connected to the second choke valve 36. Furthermore, the third ports of the two valves are connected respectively to the connectors 5 of the pressure element 3. The pressure control valves may be controlled so that when one of the valves 35 is set to allow the flow of the pressure medium to one end of the pressure element, the other valve will allow the flow of the pressure medium from the other end of the pressure element through the second choke valve 36 to outside the control means. The valves may be controlled using a mechanical lever, electric control or other control mechanism suitable for the purpose.

The control means 31 of FIG. 3 allows the rolling of a cylindrical object to be retarded or stopped, and also allows the cylindrical object to be set in motion in a desired direction. In other words, a stationary cylinder located on top of the pressure element 3 can be set to move in the desired direction.

FIG. 4 illustrates another example of an embodiment 41 of the control means according to the invention; this is actually a variation of the embodiment in FIG. 3. In the embodiment in FIG. 4, the control means 41 also comprises a non-return valve 48 connected to the supply connection 20 to prevent return flow of the pressure medium from the control means 41 to the external source of pressure medium, a pressure medium tank 49 connected to the non-return valve 48 at the supply connection 20, as well as a pressure relief valve 32. A pressure gauge 37 is installed in connection with the pressure relief valve. The non-return valve 48 prevents any over-pressurized pressure medium from flowing from the control means back to the external source of pressure medium 21. The tank 49 functions as a reserve for the pressure medium.

The embodiment in FIG. 4 also comprises non-return valves 42 connected to the connectors 5 respectively. These non-return valves 42 are connected to the pressure control valve module 34 so that they allow the pressure medium to flow to the pressure element 3 and normally prevent reverse flow of the pressure medium from the pressure element. However, the valves 42 may each be controlled so that they allow reverse flow of the pressure medium from the pressure element 3. In this example, the non-return valves are controlled by the pressure of the pressure medium. The pressure required for control is supplied to an individual non-return valve at one end of the pressure element from the supply to the opposite end of the pressure element. Thus the supply 43 that supplies pressure medium to the non-return valve at the first end of the pressure element also supplies control pressure to the non-return valve at the second end of the pressure element. Correspondingly, the supply 44 that supplies pressure medium to the second end of the pressure element also supplies control pressure to the non-return valve at the first end of the pressure element. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the supplies 43, 44 are in practice connections from the directional valves of the control module 34 to the connectors 5. The non-return valves 42, 48 in the embodiment are preferably spring-loaded.

In the embodiment in FIG. 4, one-way restrictor valves 45, 46 are used in place of the choke valves in FIG. 3. However, it is possible to use simple choke valves instead of the one-way restrictor valves in FIG. 4. A one-way restrictor valve provides free flow of pressure medium in one direction and restricted flow in the opposite direction. It is preferable to fit the one-way restrictor valve 46 on the exhaust route with a muffler 47 if the pressure medium is a gas such as air.

The operation of the embodiment in FIG. 4 is similar to the embodiment in FIG. 3. When the pressure element is being filled from either end, the non-return valve at the other end of the pressure element is instructed to open so that it allows the pressure medium to flow out of the pressure element.

The directional valves used in the pressure control valve module 34 of the examples may be of a type other than 3/2. For example, a directional valve of type 5/2 may be used. Use of 5/2 valves also provides additional features. For example, 5/2 valves allow the pressure element to be filled and drained simultaneously from both ends of the pressure element. These two examples illustrate that the control means can be implemented in many different ways. The implementation can include a pressure medium tank, for example, if it is considered necessary for practical reasons.

FIG. 5 illustrates a third example of an embodiment of control means according to the invention. This embodiment 51 is intended to function as a retarder and stopper of the rolling movement of a cylindrical object.

The control means 51 in FIG. 5 has a supply connection 20 to an external source of pressure medium and comprises a pressure relief valve 32 connected to the supply connection 20 to limit the pressure of the pressure medium, a pressure gauge 37 to indicate the pressure limited by the pressure relief valve, and a one-way restrictor valve 52 connected to the pressure relief valve 32 on the side of limited pressure so that it allows free flow of the pressure medium towards the pressure element 3. The one-way restrictor valve 52 may also be functionally connected to the connectors 5 at both ends of the pressure element 3. The connector 5 at the first end of the pressure element may be connected directly to the one-way restrictor valve. The connector 5 at the second end of the pressure element may be connected through a choke valve 53. The choke valve 53 retards the flow of the pressure medium at the second end of the pressure element.

The pressure element is filled primarily through the first end of the pressure element as the choke valve 53 retards flow to the second end of the pressure element. The pressure element is also drained primarily through the first end of the pressure element because the choke valve 53 also restricts the flow of pressure medium flowing from the second end of the pressure element. The exhaust flow goes through the one-way restrictor valve 52 to the pressure relief valve 32 from which it is released to outside the control means 51.

In this embodiment 51, the intention is that the cylindrical object will roll to the top of the pressure element from the direction of the second end of the pressure element, i.e., the end at which flow is restricted by the one-way restrictor valve 52 and the choke valve 53. The resistance of the choke valve 53 is lower than that of the one-way restrictor valve 52. The pressure relief valve 32 restricts the pressure to the range of 1 to 2.5 bar, for example.

Components considered necessary can be added to the embodiment in FIG. 5, such as a one-way restrictor valve and a pressure medium tank between the supply connection 20 and the pressure relief valve 32. A non-return valve may be connected in series with the choke valve 53 between the second end of the pressure element and the one-way restrictor valve 52. The embodiment 51 is applicable for use on a horizontal or inclined plane.

FIG. 6 illustrates a fourth example of an embodiment 61 of the control means according to the invention. The control means 61 is used with three pressure elements (not shown), although the connectors 5 for only one pressure element are shown. Similar to FIG. 5, this embodiment functions as a retarder and stopper of a cylindrical object. The control means 61 has a supply connection 20 to an external source of pressure medium and comprises a non-return valve 48 connected to the supply connection 20, as well as non-return valves 67, 54 specific to the connectors 5. The non-return valves are connected to the connectors 5 to allow the pressure medium to flow out of the pressure element 3 when the pressure of the pressure medium within the pressure element is sufficiently high.

At least one of the non-return valves 67, 54 specific to the connectors 5 of each pressure element is controllable so that it allows the pressure medium to flow into the pressure element. In practice, this means that the non-return valves associated with the first end of the respective pressure elements are controllable. FIG. 6 illustrates three controllable non-return valves for the first ends of the three pressure elements respectively. Three non-return valves are provided for the second ends of the pressure elements although only one of these non-return valves is shown in FIG. 6.

The embodiment in FIG. 6 also comprises a directional valve 62 to control the flow of the pressure medium into and out of the pressure element(s). The first port of the directional valve is connected to the non-return valve 48 at the supply connection, while the second port is functionally connected to the non-return valves 67, 54 specific to the connectors 5. The third port of the directional valve is connected to a space outside the control means, preferably through a muffler 63 when the pressure medium is air.

The second port of the directional valve 62 is connected through route 64 to the pressure relief valve 32, which is further connected to the one-way restrictor valve 52. The one-way restrictor valve allows free flow of the pressure medium towards the pressure element(s). The pressure relief valve limits the pressure of the pressure medium in section 66 of the control means that is connected to the non-return valve 67 at the first end of the pressure element 3. The pressure relief valve is also associated with a pressure gauge 37 for indicating the pressure limited by the pressure relief valve.

The embodiment 61 also comprises a pressure switch 68 connected to the connection 66 between the one-way restrictor valve 52 and the non-return valve 67 for the purpose of detecting the pressure of the pressure medium and providing a control signal to the directional valve 62. The pressure switch 68 in FIG. 6 provides an electrical control signal to the winding of the directional valve 62. The directional valve may also be controlled hydraulically or pneumatically, for example, depending on the pressure medium used. For the sake of safety, another pressure gauge 69 may be connected to the connection 66.

The operation of the embodiment 61 in FIG. 6 mainly corresponds to the operation of the embodiment 51 in FIG. 5. The rolling direction of the cylindrical object is from the second end of the pressure element towards the first end. The pressure element can be filled through the controlled non-return valve 67 at the first end. The directional valve 62 in FIG. 6 is in the non-driven position, allowing the pressure medium to flow to the side of the second port of the directional valve and further to the first end of the pressure element through the pressure relief valve 32. The second port of the directional valve 62 also is connected to a control connection 65 for the controlled non-return valve 67 at the first end of the pressure element and to the non-return valve 54 at the second end of the pressure element. When the cylindrical object compresses the pressure element, the pressure of the pressure medium increases in the first end of the pressure element and the non-return valve 67 allows the pressure medium to flow towards the pressure relief valve. The pressure increases within the connection 66 between the non-return valve 67 and the pressure relief valve 32, activating the pressure switch 68, which provides a signal for controlling the directional valve 62. The controlled directional valve 62 changes position, and the directional valve 62 conducts the pressure medium from the second port to the third port and thence outside the control means. Thus the over-pressurized pressure medium in the first end of the pressure element flows out of the control means through the pressure relief valve 32. Any over-pressure in the second end of the pressure element and the control pressure of the controlled non-return valves 67 are released through the directional valve 62.

It should be noted that the directional valve 62 in the embodiment in FIG. 6 is a 3/2 valve but could alternatively be a 5/2 valve.

FIG. 7 illustrates a fifth example of an embodiment 71 of the control means according to the invention, similar to the embodiment in FIG. 6. The control properties of the arrangement can be affected by using two directional valves in this embodiment instead of one.

Similar to the embodiment in FIG. 6, the control means 71 has a supply connection 20 to an external source of pressure medium and comprises a non-return valve 48 connected to the supply connection 20, non-return valves 67, 54 specific to the connectors 5, a pressure relief valve 32, a pressure gauge 37 to indicate the pressure limited by the pressure relief valve, a one-way restrictor valve 52 connected to the pressure relief valve 32 on the side of pressure to be limited, a directional valve 72, a pressure switch 68 and an optional second pressure gauge 69.

The embodiment 71 also comprises an optional pressure medium tank 49 connected to the non-return valve 48 of the supply connection, a second directional valve 74, and a second one-way restrictor valve 46 which may also be replaced by an ordinary choke valve.

The pressure medium tank 49 (or, alternatively, the non-return valve 48 of the supply connection) is connected to both the pressure relief valve 32 and the directional valve 72. In this case, the first directional valve is a 5/2 valve. Its first port is connected to the pressure tank 49, while the second port is connected to the non-return valve 54 at the second end of the pressure element and the control of the non-return valve 67 at the first end of the pressure element. Thus the first-end control connection 65 exists for the control of the non-return valve 67. The third and fifth ports are connected outside the control means. When using gas, the third and fifth ports are preferably provided with mufflers 63. The fourth port of the first directional valve 72 has a control connection 73 to the control part of the second directional valve 74.

The first port of the second directional valve 74 is connected to the first one-way restrictor valve 52 which allows free flow towards the first end of the pressure element. The second port of the second directional valve has a connection 75 to the controlled non-return valve 67 at the first end of the pressure element, and the third port is connected to the second one-way restrictor valve 46, which is connected outside the control means. If the pressure medium is a gas, such as air, it is preferable to use a muffler 47 in connection with the second one-way restrictor valve 46.

When the cylindrical object increases the pressure of the pressure medium at the first end of the pressure element, the pressure also increases within the connection 75 between the non-return valve 67 at the first end and the second directional valve 74, making the pressure switch 68 provide a control signal to the first directional valve 72. The first directional valve 72 changes position so that the pressure medium is allowed to flow through the fourth port to the control part of the second directional valve 74, changing the position of the second directional valve. In this case the connection 75 between the non-return valve 67 at the first end of the pressure element and the second directional valve 74 is connected to the third port of the second directional valve. The pressure medium is allowed to flow out of the control means through the third port and the second one-way restrictor valve 46. At the same time, the second port of the first directional valve is connected to outside the control means through the third port, allowing the pressure medium to flow out of the control connection 65.

FIG. 8 illustrates a sixth example of an embodiment 81 of the control means according to the invention. This embodiment is particularly well suited for inclined surfaces on which the intention is to retard and stop a cylindrical object, and potentially move it back up on the inclined plane.

The embodiment in FIG. 8 has a supply connection 20 to an external source of pressure medium and comprises a non-return valve 48 connected to the supply connection 20, as well as non-return valves 67, 54 that are specific to the connectors 5 and are connected to each connector 5 to allow the pressure medium to flow out of the pressure element 3 when the pressure of the pressure medium within the pressure element is sufficiently high. At least one of the non-return valves at the ends of the pressure element is controllable so that it allows the pressure medium to flow into the pressure element 3.

The embodiment also comprises a pressure relief valve 32 connected to a pressure medium tank 49, a pressure gauge 37 to indicate the pressure limited by the pressure relief valve, and a one-way restrictor valve 52 connected to the pressure relief valve 32 on the side of limited pressure so that it allows free flow of the pressure medium towards the pressure element.

The embodiment also comprises a first quick exhaust valve 89 with its non-return valve input connected to the one-way restrictor valve 52 and the intermediate input connected to the controllable non-return valve 67 at the first end of the pressure element. The connection 88 between the non-return valve 67 and the quick exhaust valve 89 is fitted with a pressure switch 68 to detect the pressure of the pressure medium and provide a control signal. An additional pressure gauge 69 can also be connected to this connection 88.

The embodiment in FIG. 8 also comprises a first directional valve 72 with its first port connected to the connection between the pressure medium tank 49 and the pressure relief valve 32, the second port connected to the non-return valve 54 specific to the connection means at the second end of the pressure element, and the third and fifth ports connected to a volume outside the control means. The fourth port of the first directional valve 72 is connected to the first port of the second directional valve 82. The second and third ports of the second directional valve are closed. The fifth port is connected to a space outside the control means. The auxiliary control of the second directional valve is connected 83 to the pressure in the pressure medium tank 49.

The embodiment also includes a second pressure relief valve 811 with the limited-pressure side connected 810 to the output of the first quick exhaust valve 89 and the other side connected to the fourth port of the second directional valve 82. The second pressure relief valve 811 is also associated with a second pressure gauge 812 for indicating the pressure limited by the second pressure relief valve.

The embodiment also includes a second quick exhaust valve 86 with its output connected to the connection 813 between the second pressure relief valve 811 and the second directional valve 82. The non-return valve input of the second quick exhaust valve 86 is connected 85 to the connection between the first directional valve 72 and the non-return valve 54 at the second end of the pressure element. The intermediate input of the second quick exhaust valve 86 is connected 87 to the control of the controlled non-return valve 67.

When the cylindrical object causes an increase of pressure in the first end of the pressure element, this is detected by the pressure switch 68. Because the limiting pressure of the first pressure relief valve 32 (for example, 1 to 2.5 bar) is set to be lower than the limiting pressure of the second pressure relief valve 811 (for example, 3 bar), the pressure medium is allowed to flow out of the control means through the first pressure relief valve.

The pressure switch 68 simultaneously issues a control signal to the first directional valve 72 that cuts the supply of pressure medium to the non-return valves 54, 67 at the ends of the pressure element and simultaneously allows the control connection 87, 85 of the first-end non-return valve 67 to be drained through the third port of the first directional valve 72 to outside the control means. This allows the rolling movement of the cylindrical object to be retarded and stopped.

If the stopped cylindrical object needs to be moved back up on the inclined plane, a control signal is issued to the second directional valve 82 to change its position. The pressure medium flows through the still driven first directional valve 72 and the fourth port of the second directional valve to the second quick exhaust valve 86 and the second pressure relief valve 811. The pressure medium flowing to the second quick exhaust valve flows through the control connection 87 to the controlled non-return valve 67 at the first end of the pressure element, opening it for the purpose of filling the pressure element. The actual pressure medium filling the pressure element flows through the second directional valve 811, the first quick exhaust valve 89 and the controlled non-return valve 67 to the first end of the pressure element, making the filling pressure element to move the cylindrical object up on the inclined plane.

The auxiliary control 83 is required to control the second directional valve 82 when the first directional valve 72 is not driven. However, for such a situation, the second directional valve can also be fitted with a control in which auxiliary control is not required.

FIGS. 3 to 8 illustrate embodiments in which the pressure medium is a gas or liquid suitable for the purpose. The embodiments also illustrate that the control means 6 can be implemented in many different ways.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example with several arrangements according to the invention in sequence to create a larger area 91 for moving a cylindrical object. This example has three sequential arrangements 92, 93, 94, one of them 94 being different from the two others 92, 93. Each of the arrangements has hoses 95, 96, 97, 98 arranged in parallel, and these can be filled with and drained of a pressure medium. The ends of the hoses are conducted through conduits 99 below the top surface of the planes where they are connected to the control means.

The dual dotted lines 912, 911, 910, 913 illustrate cylindrical objects on top of the plane. As can be seen, the same arrangement can be suitable for different cylindrical objects.

In the two similar arrangements 92, 93, the hoses are of equal length but the middle hoses 96 are narrower than the other hoses 99 in the arrangement. In the arrangement 94, the middle hoses 97 are also shorter than the other hoses 98. It can thus be seen that the hoses functioning as the pressure elements can be of different gauges and lengths depending of the arrangement.

FIG. 10 illustrates another example with three arrangements 102, 103, 104 according to the invention in sequence. In each arrangement, the pressure elements or the hoses 105, 106, 107, 108 are arranged in parallel, but some of them 105 are located staggered relative to the others. The ends of the hoses are conducted through conduits 109 to the underside of the planes. The sequential arrangements form a larger arrangement 101 and are arranged so that said staggered hoses 105 are staggered between the sequential arrangements, contributing to the connection between the sequential arrangements.

FIG. 11 illustrates a third example with three arrangements 112, 113, 114 according to the invention in sequence to create one large arrangement 111 according to the invention. In one of the arrangements 112, the pressure element is a compressible mat 115, the ends of which are conducted below the top surface of the plane through the conduits 116. The second arrangement has compressible mats 117 and hoses 119 in parallel. The plane has conduits 118, 1110 suitable for each pressure element. In the third arrangement 114, the pressure elements are parallel hoses 1111, 1112 with conduits 1110. The middle hoses 1112 are thinner than the other hoses.

It can be concluded from the examples in FIGS. 9 to 11 that the desired number of arrangements according to the invention can be arranged in sequence. The number three is only an example.

At least one pressure element 3 in an arrangement according to the invention may also include intermediate connections 121 as illustrated in FIG. 12. In this case the plane includes conduits 122 for intermediate connections 121. Furthermore, the arrangement includes connectors 123 for each intermediate connection 121, connected to the supply to the first end of the pressure element through at least one choke valve 124. The supply of the control means 6 to the second end of the pressure element may be arranged in any of the manners described above.

Connection of the intermediate connections 121 of the pressure element 3 to the supply of the control means 6 through which the pressure medium can flow into the pressure element and out of the pressure element through its first end creates an arrangement that can be used for moving sequential cylindrical objects located on the top of the pressure element. The choke valve 124 provides the desired flow of the pressure medium to the intermediate connections. It is also possible that several or all of the intervals 125 between the intermediate connections have separate choke valves.

The arrangements according to the invention are suitable for cylindrical objects of different sizes (and weights). The pressure element 3 can be a compressible hose or compressible mat, and these may be arranged in parallel, staggered or sequentially. The control means 6 may be placed below or near the plane. The control means may be used to control several pressure elements if fitted with connections for each pressure element. The connections for pressure elements may comprise a spring-loaded non-return valve. Even though the examples in the figures mostly illustrate open circulations of pressure medium, control means may also be provided for closed circulations of pressure medium.

The markings of the connections of the directional valves may be different than the markings illustrated in the examples in the figures. The markings of the connections are only included to facilitate description of the operation of the directional valve in relation to the other components and thus do not limit the use of a similar directional valve or another type of directional valve for the same purpose. The directional valves may also be of a different type than described in the examples. It is evident from the above that an arrangement according to the invention may be implemented in several different ways.

It is also evident that the invention is not limited to the examples mentioned in this text but may be implemented in many other different embodiments within the scope of the inventive idea.

Claims

1. Apparatus for controlling rolling motion of a cylindrical object, comprising: a fixed plane having an upper surface and an underside and formed with guides that are spaced apart along a direction of rolling motion of the cylindrical object and provide a path from the upper surface of the plane to the underside of the plane, an elongate pressure element having first and second opposite ends separated by a medial segment, the medial segment of the pressure element being located on the upper surface of the fixed plane and the first and second ends of the pressure element being guided to the underside of the plane via the first and second guides respectively, a control means having first and second connections, the control means being operable selectively for providing a pressure medium under pressure discharging the pressure medium to a lower pressure, and a connection means for connecting one of the first and second connections of the control means to the first end of the elongate pressure element and for connecting the other of the first and second connections to the second end of the elongate pressure element, for selectively filling the pressure element with a pressure medium through at least one of the first and second ends and for draining the pressure medium from the pressure element through at least one of the first and second ends.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plane comprises a sheet or mat on top of which the medial segment of the pressure element is located.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each guide is an opening in the plane or a recess at an edge of the plane.

4. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plane comprises a support made of concrete on top of which the medial segment of the pressure element is located.

5. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each guide is a recess or opening in the concrete support.

6. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the pressure element is a compressible hose or compressible mat.

7. Apparatus according to claim 1, comprising at least two pressure elements positioned in parallel on the plane.

8. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the parallel pressure elements are placed in a staggered arrangement.

9. Apparatus according to claim 1, comprising at least two pressure elements positioned in sequence on the plane.

10. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means is located below or adjacent the plane.

11. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means has a supply connection to an external source of pressure medium and comprises: a pressure relief valve connected to the supply connection to limit the pressure of the pressure medium, a first choke valve connected to the pressure relief valve on the side of pressure to be limited, a second choke valve to limit the discharge flow of the pressure medium from the pressure element, and a pressure control valve module connected to the first and second ends of the pressure element, the first choke valve and the second choke valve, said module controlling the filling of the pressure element with the pressure medium and draining it of the pressure medium.

12. Apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the control means further comprises: a non-return valve connected to the supply connection to prevent return flow of the pressure medium from the control means to the external source of pressure medium, a pressure medium tank connected between the non-return valve and the pressure relief valve, first and second non-return valves connected between the pressure control valve module and the first and second ends of the pressure element to allow the pressure medium to flow into the pressure element; the first and second non-return valves being controllable to allow the pressure medium to flow out of the pressure element through the pressure control valve module and the second choke valve for discharge from the control means.

13. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means has a supply connection to an external source of pressure medium and comprises: a pressure relief valve connected to the supply connection to limit the pressure of the pressure medium, a one-way restrictor valve connected to the pressure relief valve on the side of pressure to be limited so that it allows free flow of the pressure medium to the first end of the pressure element, and a choke valve connected between the second end of the pressure element and the one-way restrictor valve.

14. Apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control means further comprises a non-return valve connected in series with the choke valve between the second end of the pressure element and the one-way restrictor valve.

15. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means has a supply connection to an external source of pressure medium and comprises: first and second non-return valves connected to the first and second ends respectively of the pressure element to allow the pressure medium to flow out of the pressure element when the pressure of the pressure medium within the pressure element exceeds a predetermined level, at least one of the non-return valves being controllable to allow the pressure medium to flow into the pressure element, a directional valve to control the flow of the pressure medium into and out of the pressure element, the directional valve having a first port connected to the supply connection and a second port functionally connected to the first and second non-return valves, a pressure relief valve connected to the second port of the directional valve to limit the pressure of the pressure medium supplied to the first non-return valve, a one-way restrictor valve connected between the pressure relief valve and the first non-return valve and allowing free flow of the pressure medium towards the pressure element, and a pressure switch connected to the connection between the one-way restrictor valve and the first non-return valve to detect the pressure of the pressure medium and provide a control signal for the directional valve, the third port of the directional valve being connected to a discharge outlet of the control means.

16. Apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the control means further comprises a non-return valve between the supply connection and the directional valve to prevent return flow of the pressure medium from the control means to the external source of pressure medium.

17. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means has a supply connection to an external source of pressure medium and comprises: first and second non-return valves connected to the first and second ends respectively of the pressure element to allow the pressure medium to flow out of the pressure element when the pressure of the pressure medium within the pressure element exceeds a predetermined level, at least one of the non-return valves being controllable to allow the pressure medium to flow into the pressure element, a pressure relief valve connected to the supply connection, a first one-way restrictor valve connected to the pressure relief valve on the side of pressure to be limited, allowing free flow of the pressure medium towards the pressure element, a first directional valve having a first port connected to the connection between the supply connection and the pressure relief valve and a second port connected to the second non-return valve, a second directional valve having a first port connected to the first one-way restrictor valve and a second port connected to the controllable non-return valve, said second directional valve being controllable by pressure at a third port of the first directional valve, a second one-way restrictor valve connected to a third port of the second directional valve and restricting the discharge flow of the pressure medium, and a pressure switch connected to the connection between the second directional valve and the connected non-return valve to detect the pressure of the pressure medium and provide a control signal for the first directional valve, fourth and fifth ports of the directional valve being connected to an outlet of the control means; and wherein when the pressure switch detects an increase of pressure, it provides a control signal to the first directional valve, the first directional valve directs the pressure medium to the fourth port instead of the second port, whereupon the second directional valve guides the flow of the pressure medium through the second one-way restrictor valve to an outlet of the control means.

18. Apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the control means further comprises: a non-return valve connected to the supply connection to prevent return flow of the pressure medium from the control means to the external source of pressure medium, and a pressure medium tank connected to the non-return valve at the supply connection and the pressure relief valve.

19. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means has a supply connection to an external source of pressure medium and comprises: first and second non-return valves connected to the first and second ends respectively of the pressure element to allow the pressure medium to flow out of the pressure element when the pressure of the pressure medium within the pressure element exceeds a predetermined level, the first non-return valves being controllable to allow the pressure medium to flow into the pressure element, a pressure relief valve connected to the supply connection, a one-way restrictor valve connected to the pressure relief valve on the side of pressure to be limited, allowing free flow of the pressure medium towards the pressure element, a first quick exhaust valve with a non-return valve input connected to the pressure relief valve and an intermediate input connected to the first non-return valve, a pressure switch connected to the connection between the intermediate input of the first quick exhaust valve and the first non-return valve to detect an increase of the pressure of the pressure medium and provide a control signal, a first directional valve having a first port connected to the connection between the supply connection and the pressure relief valve and a second port connected to the second non-return valve, and the fourth and fifth ports connected to an outlet of the control means, a second directional valve having a first port connected to the third port of the first directional valve, the second and fifth ports closed, and a fourth port connected to an outlet of the control means, a second pressure relief valve with a limited pressure side connected to an output of the first quick exhaust valve and the other side connected to a third port of the second directional valve, and a second quick exhaust valve having an output connected to the connection between the second pressure relief valve and the second directional valve, a non-return valve input connected to the connection between the first directional valve and the second non-return valve, and an intermediate input connected to the control of the first non-return valve.

20. Apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the control means further comprises: a non-return valve connected to the supply connection to prevent return flow of the pressure medium from the control means to the external source of pressure medium, and a pressure medium tank connected to the non-return valve at the supply connection and the pressure relief valve.

21. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means comprises a closed circulation of the pressure medium.

22. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the pressure element has intermediate connections, the plane includes guides for the intermediate connections and the intermediate connections are connected to the first end of the pressure element through at least one choke valve.

23. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the pressure medium is gas or liquid.

24. An arrangement for controlling rolling motion of a cylindrical object, comprising at least first and second apparatus according to claim 1 arranged sequentially in the direction of rolling.

25. An arrangement according to claim 24, wherein the first and second apparatus are arranged so that at least some of the pressure elements are staggered between the sequential apparatus.