Patent Grant
10126060
The present invention relates to the treatment of molten metal by injection of reagents and/or gas into the molten metal through an injection lance, more particularly to lance drives for performing such treatment, and still more particularly to rotary lance drives for moving a lance during the injecting of gas and/or reagents into molten metal.
A common lance drive comprises a rigid lance mount to which the lance connects. The lance mount allows the lance to be removed from the lance drive and for new lances to be mounted on the drive. One common lance mount configuration is a swing-gate design that is used to clamp the lance into the lance mount of the lance drive. This swing-gate includes a bar that is positioned between two other bars. A pivot runs through the three bars and allows the middle bar to swing open like a gate. Once the lance is mounted, the gate is closed. At the top of the lance is a connection to which the reagent and/or gas pipe or hose is connected. The connection will typically be made with flexible hose. Once the lance is connected to the pipe or hose and the lance is secured in the lance mount, the lance can be driven by the lance drive into the molten metal bath for treatment of iron, steel or other metals. The lance includes one or more openings in the bottom portion to allow the reagent and/or gas to be inserted into the molten metal so as to treat the molten metal. Rotary lance drives generally include a swivel connection at the top of the lance drive to allow for rotation of the lance without twisting the supply pipe or hose.
Non-limiting examples of prior art lance systems are illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,320,668; 4,426,068; 4,695,042; 7,563,406; 7,736,415; 9,259,780; JP 1073014A; JP 1252720A; JP 2008315A; JP 3641130B2; JP 7083576A; JP 10195522A; JP 10204520A; JP 62185811A; JP 62386527A; and KR 1092070B1, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The present invention is directed to an improved lance drive system that can be used during the injection of gas and/or reagents into molten metal, and methods for using the same. The lance drive system is configured to move a lance about a vertical axis while simultaneously discharging reagent through the lance. As can be appreciated, the lance drive system can be used with a variety of reagents for treatment of a variety of metals or other materials.
In accordance with various non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, the lance drive system includes a main support housing that includes a main rotary element. The main rotary element is caused to be rotated partially or fully about a main rotation axis by a drive motor assembly. A lance mount arrangement is connected to the main rotary element and is caused to be rotated when the main rotary element rotates. The lance mount arrangement is configured to releaseably connect an injection lance to the lance mount arrangement. In one non-limiting embodiment, the lance drive system is configured to cause the main rotary element to reciprocate such that the main rotary element rotates about the main rotation axis less than 360°. The one or more drive motors of the drive motor assembly can be directly connected to the main rotary element or can be connected to the main rotary element by one or more gears, belts, chains, hydraulic transmission arrangement, etc.
In one non-limiting aspect of the invention, the lance mount arrangement is connected to the main rotary element at a location that is off center from the main rotation axis such that when the main rotary element rotates about the main rotation axis, the lance mount arrangement is caused to move in a circular or semi-circular path that is spaced from and about the main rotation axis. In one non-limiting arrangement, the lance mount arrangement is at least partially connected to and/or positioned on an outer perimeter of the main rotary element. In another non-limiting arrangement, the lance mount arrangement is at least partially rotatably connected to the main support housing at a location above and/or below the main rotary element. In such an arrangement, the axis of rotation of the main rotary element and the portion of the lance mount arrangement that is rotatably connected to the main support housing at a location above and/or below the main rotary element are generally the same.
In another non-limiting aspect of the invention, the lance mount arrangement is connected to the main rotary element at a location that is aligned with the main rotation axis such that when the main rotary element rotates, the lance mount arrangement is caused to rotate within the main rotation axis. In another non-limiting arrangement, the lance mount arrangement is at least partially rotatably connected to the main support housing at a location above and/or below the main rotary element. In such an arrangement, the axis of rotation of the main rotary element and the portion of the lance mount arrangement that is rotatably connected to the main support housing at a location above and/or below the main rotary element are generally the same. In another non-limiting arrangement, the lance is connected to the lance mount arrangement such that the lance is off center from the main rotation axis such that when the main rotary element rotates about the main rotation axis, the lance mount arrangement is caused to move in a circular or semi-circular path that is space from and about the main rotation axis.
In another non-limiting aspect of the invention, a swivel coupling can optionally be used that is configured to permit connection of a supply hose to the lance or other structure so as to allow relative rotation between the supply hose and the lance or other structure. The supply hose can be optionally flexible.
In another non-limiting aspect of the invention, the lance drive system can be configured to cause the lance to reciprocate about a vertical axis and/or move about a vertical axis. The lance drive system can optionally cause the lance to move up and down along the vertical axis. Such vertical movement of the lance can occur while the lance is rotated in or about the main rotation axis; however, this is not required.
In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the lance that is connected to the lance mount arrangement is used for the treatment of molten metal material via injection of one or more reagents into the molten metal through such lance. The type of reagent used in conjunction with the lance system of the present invention is non-limiting. Non-limiting examples of such reagents can include fluid reagents, solid reagents, gaseous reagents, etc. In one non-limiting system, the reagent is a desulfurization reagent; however, this is not required. Similarly, the type of lance used in conjunction with the lance drive system of the present invention is non-limiting. In use, the lance is configured to releasably mount to the lance drive system of the present invention, which lance drive system is optionally configured to partially or fully move or rotate the lance about a vertical rotational axis; however, this is not required. Furthermore, the lance drive system can be configured to cause the lance to move up and move down along a vertical axis; however, this is not required. The lance used in conjunction with the lance drive system of the present invention is not limited in cross-sectional shape or size. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the lance can be circular, oval, hexagonal, rectangular, square, etc. Generally, the lance comprises an upper portion defining a top end of the lance, a lower portion defining a bottom end of the lance, and a main passage extending along a vertical axis through said lance. The bottom end of the lance can include one or more discharge ports in fluid communication with the lance conduit for the purpose of releasing one or more reagents; however, this is not required. The size, shape, orientation and position of the one or more discharge ports are non-limiting. The top end of the lance can include a swivel member configured to couple a hose (e.g., flexible hose, rigid hose, pipe, etc.) to the passage extending through the lance. The size, shape, and type of swivel member used are non-limiting.
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the support housing of the lance drive system can optionally include one or more components of the lance drive system to partially or fully protect such components from damage during the operation of the lance drive system; however, this is not required. The support housing can optionally include a removable cover member for the purpose of permitting access to the interior of the support housing; however, this is not required.
In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the lance mount arrangement of the lance drive system includes one or more mounting members. Generally, the one or more mounting members are configured to releaseably engage and secure the lance to the lance mount arrangement. In one non-limiting arrangement, the one or more mounting members are configured to be moveable such that the mounting member can be positioned to partially or fully encircle a portion of the lance to thereby releaseably secure the lance to the lance mount arrangement. In one non-limiting arrangement, the one or more mounting members are configured to engage non-circular cross-section portions of the lance; however, this is not required. The length, width, and thickness of the one or more mounting members are non-limiting. In one non-limiting configuration, the one or more mounting members include a slot or hole configured to receive a pivot pin so that the one or more mounting members can be pivotally connected to the lance mount arrangement; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting design, the one or more mounting members can be rigidly mounted to a lance mount arrangement; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting arrangement, two mounting members are used and a first mounting member is positioned above a second mounting member and spaced from one another; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting design, a support member can be connected to both mounting members and can be used to simultaneously move both mounting members between an open and closed position to facilitate in the connection and removal of the lance from the lance mount arrangement; however, this is not required. The support member (when used) can be configured to include a handle; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, other or additional the types of locking mechanisms can be used to releasably secure the lance to the lance mount arrangement (e.g., latches, lock pins, clips, snaps, bolts, threaded fasteners, clamps, springs, buckles, etc.).
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the present invention includes a drive motor assembly. As can be appreciated, the drive motor assembly can be located in the housing portion, or can be located external to the housing portion. The type of motor used is non-limiting. In one non-limiting design, an electric motor is used; however, this is not required. The lance drive system of the present invention can be configured to receive electrical power through a standard power cord connected to an AC power outlet, and a power switch that can be optionally provided externally on the housing portion for turning power to the lance drive system on and off; however, this is not required. The drive motor assembly of the present invention is configured to actuate rotation of the lance mount arrangement; however, this is not required. The actuating means is non-limiting. For example, the actuating means can include a gear drive, a worm gear drive, a bevel gear drive, a rack and pinion drive, a cable drive system, a pulley drive system, a chain drive system, etc. The actuating means can be intermittent (e.g., intermittent gears, linear gears, etc.), oscillating (e.g., oscillating gears), and/or continuous; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting design, the drive motor assembly includes a gear drive system. The gear drive system (when used) can comprise one or more gears. The one or more gears are used to cause the main rotary element to rotate when the drive motor is actuated.
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the drive motor assembly is configured to cause the main rotary element to reciprocate; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the drive motor assembly can include a torque detection arrangement for the purpose of detecting pressure applied to the main rotary element; however, this is not required. As such, if excessive torque is applied to a main rotary element, the drive motor can be deactivated so as to prevent the drive motor from burning out due to overuse, overheating, etc.; however, this is not required.
In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the lance drive system can be configured to operate in conjunction with a reagent injection system; however, this is not required. As such, the lance drive system can optionally include one or more flow detection sensors for the purpose of measuring and/or detecting the flow of reagent into the lance; however, this is not required. As such, the lance drive system can be configured to release reagent into the lance when the lance moves in a pre-set direction (e.g., clockwise direction, counterclockwise direction, etc.); however, this is not required. Similarly, the flow rate of reagent through the reagent injection system (when used) can be adjusted based on one or more factors (e.g., time, lance movement, lance position, etc.); however, this is not required.
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the lance drive system includes a rotation detection system. The rotation detection system (when used) can be provided for the purpose of detecting: 1) rotational position of the main rotary element, the lance mount arrangement and/or the lance; 2) rotational direction of the main rotary element, the lance mount arrangement and/or the lance; 3) rotational speed of the main rotary element, the lance mount arrangement and/or the lance; and/or 4) number of rotations of the main rotary element, the lance mount arrangement and/or the lance. As can be appreciated, the rotation detection system can be configured to measure other and/or alternative operations of the lance drive system. The rotation detection system includes a sensor system. The sensor system (when used) is not limited in size, shape, or quantity. For example, the sensors can be optical sensors, magnetic sensors, tactile sensors, rotational sensors, mechanical sensors, ultrasonic sensors, etc. In one non-limiting arrangement, one or more optical sensors can be configured to detect surface structures, images, and/or gear teeth on the drive motor, the one or more gears, the main rotary element, the lance mount arrangement and/or the lance; however, this is not required. In another non-limiting arrangement, one or more magnetic sensors can be configured to detect one or more structures on the surface of the drive motor, the one or more gears, the main rotary element, the lance mount arrangement and/or the lance; however, this is not required. In another non-limiting arrangement, one or more tactile sensors can be configured to detect surface projections and/or gear teeth on the surface of the drive motor, the one or more gears, the main rotary element, the lance mount arrangement and/or the lance; however, this is not required. The one or more sensors can be configured to directly or indirectly 1) provide limits of rotation to the main rotary element, 2) count the number of rotations and/or reciprocations of the main rotary element, 3) cause the main rotary element to move to a particular location (e.g., lance mounting or dismounting position, etc.), 4) control the speed of rotation of the main rotary element, and/or 5) provide information regarding the proper functioning of the lance drive system; however this is not required. In one non-limiting configuration, the rotation detection system includes one or more magnetic sensors and one or more corresponding magnets or detection structures. The magnetic sensors can be provided on an interior and/or exterior surface of the support housing, and the one or more corresponding magnets or detection structures can be provided on the main rotary element; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, other or alternative arrangements can be used. In such a configuration, the one or more magnetic sensors are capable of detecting the rotational position of the lance and the rotational direction of the lance as the lance rotates by detecting the position of the one or more magnets or detection structures on the main rotary element; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative configuration, the rotation detection system includes one or more sensors provided on the support housing wherein the one or more sensors detect and/or count the teeth on the main rotary element as the main rotary element rotates; however, this is not required. In another and/or alternative non-limiting arrangement, the one or more sensors can be in communication with a motor control motor such that once a number of gear teeth on the main rotary element have been detected during rotation and/or a certain position of the main rotary element has been detected during rotation, the motor reverses direction, stops, increases speed and/or reduces speed; however, this is not required.
In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the rotation detection system causes the lance mount arrangement to rotate less than 360° in a given rotational direction; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the rotation detection system causes the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement to rotate about 1-359° (and all values and ranges therebetween) in a given rotational direction before the direction of rotation is stopped or reversed. In yet another non-limiting arrangement, the rotation detection system causes the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement to rotate about 50-300° degrees in a given rotational direction before the direction of rotation is stopped or reversed. In yet another non-limiting arrangement, the rotation detection system causes the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement to rotate about 50-200° degrees in a given rotational direction before the direction of rotation is stopped or reversed. In yet another non-limiting arrangement, the rotation detection system causes the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement to rotate about 80-160° degrees in a given rotational direction before the direction of rotation is stopped or reversed.
In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the rotation detection system can be used to define a loading position of the lance drive system; however, this is not required.
In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the one or more sensors can be used to slow down or speed up the rotation of the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement; however, this is not required. In such an arrangement, as a limit of rotation for the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement is reached, the speed of the drive motor can be configured to slow down such that the rotation of the main rotary element decreases; however, this is not required. Similarly, once the limit of rotation is reached and the drive motor reverses direction, the one or more sensors can be used to increase the drive motor speed, thereby increasing the rate of rotation of the main rotary element; however, this is not required. Also, when the movement or rotation of the lance is to be terminated, the one or more sensors can be used to decrease the drive motor speed during the stopping of the rotation of the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement and/or the positioning of the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement in a certain position; however, this is not required.
In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the lance drive system can optionally include one or more visual indicators to inform a user of 1) the rotational direction of the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement, 2) the rotational position of the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement, 3) the activity of the rotation direction system, 4) the flow rate of reagent through the lance, and/or 5) a malfunction of the lance drive system. The one or more visual indicators (when used) can be printed material, lighting (e.g., green light indicates on, red light indicates off, LED display, LCD display, etc.), and/or a tactile indicator, monitor or screen, etc. The one or more visual indicators can be located on any portion of the housing portion. As can be appreciated sound alarms can also or alternatively be used.
In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the lance drive system comprises a main support housing, a lance mount arrangement, a drive motor assembly, and a rotation detection system. In one non-limiting design, the lance drive system has a vertical height of at least about 0.5 feet and generally no more than about 10 feet. In one non-limiting design, the lance drive system has a vertical height of about 1-8 feet. In another non-limiting design, the lance drive system has a vertical height of about 2-6 feet. The vertical height of the lance drive system is generally equal to or greater than the vertical height of the lance drive system; however, this is not required.
One non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system that can be used during the injection of gas and/or reagents into molten metal, and methods for using the same.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system configured to move or rotate a lance about a vertical axis while simultaneously discharging reagent through the lance.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system that includes a main support housing, a drive motor assembly, a lance mount arrangement and a sensor arrangement. The drive motor assembly is configured to cause a main rotary element in the main support housing to rotate about a main rotation axis. A lance mount arrangement is connected or interconnected to the main rotary element and is caused to rotate when the main rotary element rotates. The lance mount arrangement is configured to connect a lance to the lance mounting arrangement. The sensor arrangement is configured to control the rotation movement of the main rotary element.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system that is configured to cause the main rotary element to reciprocate such that the main rotary element rotates about the main rotation axis less than 360°.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the lance mount arrangement is connected or interconnected to the main rotary element at a location that is off center from the main rotation axis such that when the main rotary element rotates about the main rotation axis, and the longitudinal axis of the lance mount arrangement is not aligned with the main rotation axis, the lance mount is caused to move in a circular or semi-circular path that is spaced from and about the main rotation axis.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the lance mount arrangement is at least partially connected to, interconnected to and/or positioned on an outer perimeter of the main rotary element.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the lance mount arrangement is connected or interconnected to the main rotary element at a location that is aligned with the main rotation axis such that when the main rotary element rotates, the lance mount arrangement is caused to rotate within the main rotation axis and the longitudinal axis of the lance mount arrangement is aligned with the main rotation axis.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein a swivel coupling can optionally be used that is configured to permit connection of a supply hose to the lance or other structure so as to allow relative rotation between the supply hose and the lance or other structure.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system that is configured to cause the lance to reciprocate about a vertical axis and/or rotate in one direction about a vertical axis.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein a cross-sectional shape of the lance can be circular, oval, hexagonal, rectangular, square, etc.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the support housing of the lance drive system includes one or more components of the lance drive system to partially or fully protect such components from damage during the operation of the lance drive system.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the lance mount arrangement includes one or more mounting members configured to releaseably engage and secure the lance to the lance mount arrangement.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the drive motor assembly can include a torque detection arrangement for the purpose of detecting pressure applied to the main rotary element.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system including one or more flow detection sensors for the purpose of measuring and/or detecting the flow of reagent into the lance.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the rotation detection system can be provided for the purpose of detecting: 1) rotational position of the main rotary element, the lance mounting arrangement and/or the lance, 2) rotational direction of the main rotary element, the lance mounting arrangement and/or the lance, 3) rotational speed of the main rotary element, the lance mounting arrangement and/or the lance, and/or 4) number of rotations of the main rotary element, the lance mounting arrangement and/or the lance.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the rotational detection system includes a sensor system such as one or more optical sensors, magnetic sensors, tactile sensors, rotational sensors, mechanical sensors, ultrasonic sensors, etc.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the one or more sensors of the rotational detection system can be configured to directly or indirectly 1) provide limits of rotation to the main rotary element, 2) count the number of rotations and/or reciprocations of the main rotary element, 3) cause the main rotary element to move to a particular location (e.g., lance mounting or dismounting position, etc.), 4) control the speed of rotation of the main rotary element, and/or 5) provide information regarding the proper functioning of the lance drive system; however this is not required.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the one or more sensors of the rotational detection system can be in communication with a motor control motor such that once a number of gear teeth on the main rotary element have been detected during rotation and/or a certain position of the main rotary element has been detected during rotation, the motor reverses direction, stops, increases speed and/or reduces speed.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the rotation detection system causes the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement to rotate about 1-359° in a given rotational direction before the direction of rotation is stopped or reversed.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the rotation detection system can be used to define a loading position of the lance drive system.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system wherein the one or more sensors of the rotation detection system can be used to slow down or speed up the rotation of the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement.
Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a lance drive system that includes one or more visual indicators to inform a user of: 1) the rotational direction of the lance; 2) the rotational position of the main rotary element and/or lance mount arrangement; 3) the activity of the rotation direction system; 4) the flow rate of reagent through the lance; and/or 5) a malfunction of the lance drive system.
These and other objects and advantages will become apparent from the following description taken together with the accompanying drawings.
Reference may now be made to the drawings which illustrate various non-limiting embodiments that the invention may take in physical form and in certain parts and arrangement of parts wherein:
Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for the purpose of illustrating at least one non-limiting embodiment of the invention only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention,
Referring now to
The lance drive system 100 comprises a main support housing 110, a lance mount arrangement 130, a drive motor assembly 170, and a rotation detection system 190.
The main support housing 110 can include a first support housing portion 112 configured to house at least part of the drive motor assembly 170 and the rotation detection system 190, and a second support housing portion 114 configured to support at least a portion of the lance mounting arrangement 130; however, this is not required. As illustrated in
The main housing portion 110 is generally configured to be connected to an external structure (e.g., a post, a wall, a truck, etc.) so that the lance drive system can be secured in place during the operation of the lance drive system; however, this is not required.
A main rotary element 180 is rotationally secured to main housing portion 110 and rotates about central rotary axis 10. A pin or bolt 181 can be used to secure the main rotary element to the main housing portion. A bushing and/or bearing may optionally be used to facilitate in the rotation of the main rotary element on the main housing portion. The outer peripheral surface of the main rotary element is illustrated as including a plurality of teeth 183. The teeth are configured to engage teeth on gear 172 of drive motor assembly 170 as illustrated in
The main rotary element is illustrated as including teeth only on a portion of the peripheral surface of the main rotary element; however, this is not required. When such a teeth configuration is used, the main rotary element is thus configured to not rotate a full 360° about the central rotary axis 10. As will be described in more detail below, the main rotary element having such configuration is configured to reciprocate back and forth (i.e., repeatedly move in a clockwise rotation and then in a counterclockwise rotation) during the operation of the lance drive system.
The lance mount arrangement 130 is illustrated as being connected to both the main rotary element and a portion of the main housing portion. Referring now to
A first end 136a of base gate member 136 is illustrated as being pivotally connected to mount base member via bolt or pin 146. As best illustrated in
As illustrated in
The mount top member 134 is pivotally connected to a top portion 116 of main support housing 110. A pin or bolt 147 is illustrated pivotally securing the mount top portion to the top portion of main support housing 110.
A first end 160A of top gate member 160 is illustrated as being pivotally connected to mount top member via bolt or pin 167. As best illustrated in
As illustrated in
When the mount members are in the open position, a portion of the lance can be positioned up against mount slots 152, 153, after which the top and bottom gate members can be moved to the closed and locked position to releasably secure the lance to the lance mount arrangement. When the lance is to be removed from the lance mount arrangement, the top and bottom gate members are unlocked and moved to the open and unlocked position. The two openings that are formed by each mount slot 152, 153 and the respective top or bottom mount slot 136c, 160c when the gate members are in the closed position can have a shape that is the same or similar to the outer cross-sectional shape of the lance that is to be positioned in such openings; however, this is not required.
A mount support member 148 is optionally connected to both the base gate member 136 and the top gate member 160 of the lance mount arrangement. As such, the support member 148 provides structural support to both the base gate member and the top gate member and also enables the base gate member and the top gate member to be simultaneously moved between the open and closed positions. The mount support member can optionally include a handle opening 151 to facilitate in enabling a user to grasp and move the mount support member. In operation, the mount support member causes the mount top member to pivot about pivot pin 147 when the main rotary element 180 rotates.
As best illustrated in
When the lance 300 is removably connected to the lance mount arrangement, the lance drive system 100 causes the lance to be reciprocally rotated about the central rotary axis 10. As illustrated in
The top portion of the lance can optionally include a top flange 302 and bottom flange 304. As illustrated in
Referring now to
In use, the magnetic sensors 194, 196, 198 are configured to detect the position of the main rotary element, the speed of rotation of the main rotary element and/or the direction of rotation of main rotary element as one or more detection structures pass under and are detected by one or more of the magnetic sensors; however, this is not required. As illustrated in
In use, a lance 300 is releasably secured to the lance drive system 100. A bottom end of lance 300 is inserted into the molten metal material and the lance is caused to move about the main rotary axis while the lance discharges one or more reagents into the molten metal. The bottom of the lance can include a single discharge opening configured to discharge material along the longitudinal axis of the lance, or can have one or more discharge opening as illustrated in
The movement of the lance can be controlled by the rotation detection system. When the drive motor 174 is actuated, main rotary element 180 is rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. As main rotary element 180 rotates, magnetic sensors 194, 196, 198 scan the top surface 182 of the main rotary element 180 to detect the detection structures on the main rotary element. As edge 193 of main rotary element 180 approaches magnetic sensors 194, 196, 198, magnetic sensor 194 detects detection structure 185 on the top surface of the main rotary element 180 and causes the drive motor to reverse in direction, thereby causing the rotational direction of the main rotary element to also reverse. As main rotary element 180 rotates counterclockwise, magnetic sensor 196 detects detection structure 186 on the top surface 182 of main rotary element 180. If the main rotary element is to stop at such location, the drive motor stops operation. If the main rotary element is to continue its counterclockwise rotation, the main rotary element will continue to rotate until edge 192 approaches magnetic sensors 194, 196, 198. When magnetic sensor 198 detects detection structure 188 on the top surface of the main rotary element 180, the drive motor is caused to reverse in direction, thereby causing the rotational direction of the main rotary element to also reverse. This detection process is repeated until further movement of the lance is no longer required. As such, lance 300 can be moved about main rotary axis 10 in a first rotational direction and then subsequently rotated about the main rotary axis in an opposite rotational direction. Generally, the degree of rotation of main rotary element 180 is chosen such that the main rotary element rotates less than 360° about the main rotary axis.
Referring now to
The lance drive system 200 comprises a main support housing 210, a lance mount arrangement 220, a drive motor assembly 270, and a rotation detection system 290.
The main support housing 210 can be configured to house at least a portion of the drive motor assembly 270 and/or at least a portion of the lance mount arrangement 220; however, this is not required. The support housing 210 can include a removable housing cover 202 to allow better access to the components at least partially contained in the support housing. The drive motor assembly 270 optionally includes an air conduit 201 to provide air flow into and/or out of the interior of the support housing.
The main support housing 210 includes a top wall 212 and a bottom wall 211. Top wall 212 can include an opening 213 for the purpose of receiving a portion of the lance mount arrangement 220. Similarly, bottom wall 211 can include an opening 214 for the purpose of receiving a portion of the lance mount arrangement 220. The size and shape of openings 213, 214 are non-limiting. A bearing 216 is illustrated as being connected to the opening 213 in the top wall 212 of the main support housing and comprising a center opening 215. The bearing is configured to rotatably support the top portion of the lance mount arrangement to enable the top portion of the lance mount arrangement to rotate relative to the top wall; however, other types of connections can be used. Pin or bolt 217 can be used to secure a bearing plate 219 to the top wall of the housing. The bearing plate is used to secure bearing 216 in position relative to the top wall of the housing; however, this is not required.
Referring now to
A main rotary element 272 is rotationally secured to the main housing portion 210 and rotates about central rotary axis 20. The main rotary element is configured such that a radially inward portion 278 remains fixed to the bottom wall of the main support housing while the radially outward portion 277 rotates about the radially inward portion and about central rotary axis 20; however, this is not required. The top surface of the radially inward portion 278 can include a plurality of slots of recesses. One or more pins or bolts 271 can be used to secure the radially inward portion 278 of the main rotary element to the bottom surface of the bottom wall 211 of the main support housing. Bushings and/or bearings may optionally be used to facilitate in the rotation of the main rotary element on the main support housing; however, this is not required.
The outer peripheral surface of the main rotary element is illustrated as including a plurality of teeth 273. The teeth are configured to engage teeth on gear 274 of drive motor assembly 270 as illustrated in
The main rotary element is illustrated in
As illustrated in
The lance mount arrangement 220 is illustrated as comprising a main support beam 222, a mount base member 252, and a mount top member 232.
A top end of the lance mount arrangement 220 is illustrated as being connected to both the main housing and the main rotary element. The top end portion of the lance mount arrangement is rotatably connected to the main support housing. The portion of the lance mount arrangement that is positioned at or near the main rotary element is connected to interconnected to the main rotary element so that when the main rotary element rotates, the lance mount arrangement is also cause to rotate.
The main support beam 222 can optionally include one or more structural support elements 226; however, this is not required. A top end of the main support beam 222 of the lance mount arrangement 220 is illustrated as comprising a tubular extension 224. The top of the tubular extension can optionally include a tapered portion 225. Extension 224 is configured to be inserted through opening 213 in the top wall 212 of the main support housing and optionally through opening 215 of bearing 216, thereby enabling stable rotation of the main support beam about the central rotary axis 20. The extension 224 can be generally circular in cross-sectional shape so as to correspond with the circular opening 215 in bearing 216; however, other cross-sectional shapes can be used.
Referring now to
Referring now to
As best illustrated in
As best illustrated in
The mount top member 232 is optionally rigidly connected to mount support plate 229 of the lance mount arrangement. As illustrated in
As best illustrated in
As illustrated in
When the gate members are in the open position, a portion of the lance can be positioned up against mount slots 235, 255; thereafter, the top and bottom gate members can be moved to the closed and locked position to releasably secure the lance to the lance mount arrangement. When the lance is to be removed from the lance mount arrangement, the top and bottom gate members are unlocked and moved to the open and unlocked position. The two openings that are formed by each mount slot 235, 255 and the respective top and bottom gate mount slots 244, 264 when the gate members are in the closed position can have a shape that is the same or similar to the outer cross-sectional shape of the lance that is to be positioned in such openings; however, this is not required.
Mount base member 252 and mount top member 232 are optionally connected at a back surface to a mounting plate 229. The mounting plate 229 provides structural support to both the mount base member and the mount top member and also enables vertical and/or horizontal adjustment of the support members on the front surface of the main support beam; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the mount base member and the mount top member can be connected directly to the main support beam 222.
As best seen in
When the lance 400 is removably connected to the lance mount arrangement, the lance drive system 200 causes the lance to be fully move about or reciprocally move about the central rotary axis 20. As illustrated in
The top portion of the lance can optionally include a top flange 402 and a bottom flange 404. As best illustrated in
Referring now to
In use, the magnetic sensors 291, 292, 293 are configured to detect the position of the main rotary element, the speed of rotation of the main rotary element and/or the direction of rotation of main rotary element as one or more detection structures pass under and are detected by one or more of the magnetic sensors; however, this is not required. Because the main rotary element is capable of rotating 360° in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction, when the one or more detection structures are detected by one or more of the magnetic sensors, the detection structures can be used to: 1) define a limit of rotation of the main rotary element in the clockwise and the counter clockwise direction, 2) cause the main rotary element to stop at a position that facilitates in the connection or disconnection of the lance from the lance mount arrangement, 3) detect the direction of rotation of the main rotary element, 4) detect the speed of rotation of the main rotary element, and/or 5) cause the rotational speed of the main rotary element to increase or decrease.
In use, a lance 400 is releasably secured to the lance drive system 200. A bottom end of lance 400 is inserted into the molten metal material and the lance is caused to move about the main rotary axis while the lance discharges one or more reagents into the molten metal. The bottom of the lance can include a single discharge opening configured to discharge material along the longitudinal axis of the lance, or can have one or more discharge openings as illustrated in
The movement of the lance can be controlled by the rotation detection system. When the drive motor 276 is actuated, main rotary element 272 is rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. As main rotary element 272 rotates, magnetic sensors 291, 292, 293 scan the top surface of the radially outward portion 277 of the main rotary element 272 to detect the detection structures on the main rotary element. As detection structure 295 approaches magnetic sensor 293, magnetic sensor 293 detects detection structure 295 on the top surface of the main rotary element 272. Such detection can be used to causes the drive motor to reverse in direction, thereby causing the rotational direction of the main rotary element to also reverse if reciprocation of the lance is desired. Alternatively or additionally, such detection can be used to verify proper rotation speed of the main rotary element, proper operation of the lance drive arrangement, number of times detection structure detected, speed of rotation of the main rotary element, etc. If the main rotary element is to continue rotation in the same direction, the detection of the detection structure will not cause the drive motor to reverse.
As main rotary element 272 rotates, magnetic sensor 292 detects detection structure 294 or some other detection structure on the top surface of main rotary element 272. If the main rotary element is to stop at such location, the drive motor stops orientation. If the main rotary element is to continue, the main rotary element will to continue to rotate. In one non-limiting configuration, when magnetic sensor 292 detects detection structure 294 or some other detection structure on the top surface of the main rotary element 272, the drive motor is caused to reverse in direction, thereby causing the rotational direction of the main rotary element to also reverse; however, this is not required.
This detection process can be repeated until further movement of the lance is no longer required. This detection arrangement can thus be used for either continuous rotation of the main rotary element in a single direction or reciprocating motion of the main rotary element. As such, lance 400 can be moved about main rotary axis 20 in a first rotational direction and then subsequently rotated about the main rotary axis in an opposite rotational direction. Generally, the degree of rotation of main rotary element 272 is chosen such that the main rotary element rotates less than 360° about the main rotary axis when the main rotary drive is to be reciprocated; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the degree of reciprocation rotation of main rotary element 272 can be chosen such that the main rotary element rotates equal to or greater than 360° about the main rotary axis.
It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained, and since certain changes may be made I the constructions set forth without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawing shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The invention has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Modifications and alterations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the detailed discussion of the invention provided herein. This invention is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present invention. It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween. The invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments. These and other modifications of the preferred embodiments as well as other embodiments of the invention will be obvious from the disclosure herein, whereby the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims.
The present invention claims priority on U.S. Provisional Application Ser. Nos. 62/155,815 filed May 1, 2015; 62/215,408 filed Sep. 8, 2015; and 62/316,786 filed Apr. 1, 2016, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20160320132 A1 | Nov 2016 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62155815 | May 2015 | US | |
| 62215408 | Sep 2015 | US | |
| 62316786 | Apr 2016 | US |
