Device And Method For Conveying High-viscosity Material

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for conveying high-viscosity materials, preferably for conveying concrete, comprising a conveyance conduit (5), wherein the conveyance conduit (5) can be extended by inserting at least one conduit segment (4) and wherein a distance between the conduit segment (4) and the conveyance conduit (5) can be compensated by a distance compensation device (3).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention pertains to a method and a device for conveying thick-matter, particularly for conveying concrete, comprising a delivery line, wherein the delivery line can be extended by inserting at least one line segment.

PRIOR ART

[0002] Such devices for conveying concrete are used, for example, in the construction of buildings. The concrete needs to be conveyed to great heights, particularly in the construction of high-rise buildings, bridges and the like. Devices of this type are typically mounted on chassis frames of trucks or on masts on high-rise structures. In this case, the delivery line is typically arranged on a mast consisting of several mast segments that can be telescopically extended. Due to the telescopic extension of the mast, it can be arranged in such a compact fashion that even great mast lengths can be accommodated on a comparatively small chassis frame of a truck.

[0003] In addition to the extension of the mast, the delivery line also needs to be extended. However, a telescopic extension of the delivery line is not possible due to the demands on the conveyance of thick-matter. If individual segments would be telescopically pushed into one another, the small diameter of these conduits would cause these segments to become wedged together and distorted.

[0004] This is the reason why separate line segments are provided for the extension of the delivery line. The delivery line initially needs to be interrupted in order to be extended. Subsequently, the telescoping mast is extended until the distance in the delivery line is sufficiently large for inserting a separately provided line segment. Subsequently, the telescoping mast is once again retracted to such an extent that the distances between the line segment and the delivery line are closed and a continuous flow connection is once again realized. A device of this type is described in DE 44 39 930 A1.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Based on the above-described prior art, the present invention aims to disclose an additionally improved device for conveying thick-matter, particularly for conveying concrete.

[0006] This objective is attained by means of a device having the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of this device are disclosed in the dependent claims.

[0007] A device for conveying thick-matter, particularly for conveying concrete, accordingly comprises a delivery line that can be extended by inserting at least one line segment. According to the invention, the distance between the line segment and the delivery line can be compensated by means of a distance compensation device.

[0008] This provides the advantage that a retraction of the telescoping mast is not required in order to close the distance between the delivery line and the line segment. After the telescoping mast has been extended in order to produce a sufficiently large distance for inserting a line segment between the supply line and the delivery line, the mast can in fact be fixed in this position, preferably by means of a bolt connection. Longitudinal forces occurring due to the own weight of the mast therefore can have no effect on closing the distance between the delivery line and the line segment. Furthermore, the maximum attainable height of the telescoping mast can be fully utilized.

[0009] In another preferred embodiment, the distance between the distance compensation device and the line segment can be compensated by means of the distance compensation device.

[0010] In this way, the distance between the line segment and the distance compensation device can be closed without the assistance of the telescoping mast when the line segment is inserted into an interruption of the delivery line that is larger than the line segment. In this case, the forces acting upon the line segment only originate from a distance compensation device that can be realized in a feasible compact fashion. Consequently, while closing the distance, the line segment is not exposed to larger forces such as forces caused by the own weight of the mast. Consequently, a contact closure can be produced in order to realize an optimal flow connection.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, a distance between the supply line and the line segment can be compensated by means of the distance compensation device. In this case, the distance compensation device is either connected to the delivery line or the supply line.

[0012] If the distance compensation device is connected to the supply line, the distance compensation device is preferably stationarily. This provides the advantage that a means for supplying the distance compensation device such as, for example, a power supply does not have to be realized in an extendable fashion. In addition, the distance compensation device only has to compensate the distances of one line segment or move one line segment, respectively. Consequently, the flux of force originating from the distance compensation device extends over no more than one line segment. In this way, the principle of direct power transmission, as well as the principle of short power transmission, are applied.

[0013] If the distance compensation device is connected to the delivery line, the distance compensation device preferably comes in contact with no more than one line segment during the extension of the delivery line. This on the one hand provides the advantage that the distance compensation device is subjected to less intensive wear at the joint because the contact with a new line segment does not have to be continuously produced during an extension of the delivery line. On the other hand, it is possible to forgo a universal design of the joint of the distance compensating device because it is merely required that the joint of the distance compensation device can be connected to one line segment. The distance compensation device and the line segment therefore can be exactly adapted to one another in order to provide an ideal flow connection.

[0014] Since the distance between the supply line and the line segment can be compensated by means of the distance compensation device, it is possible to forgo a displacement of the mast for its precise adjustment, as well as an associated fixing of the mast at an arbitrary location.

[0015] In another preferred embodiment, the distance compensation device is arranged on a base element of a mast. In addition, the delivery line is arranged on a telescoping section of the mast. The line segment may furthermore be connected to the delivery line.

[0016] The stationary arrangement of the distance compensation device on the base element of the mast provides the advantage that the distance compensation device is not forced to follow the movement of the telescoping section of the mast. This has advantageous effects, for example, on the supply of the distance compensation device because its power supply, for example, does not have to be adapted to the extension of the delivery line. The stationary arrangement furthermore provides the advantage that the distance compensation device is able to compensate distances with high accuracy.

[0017] The arrangement of the delivery line on the telescoping section of the mast provides the advantage that the delivery line can be moved to the desired conveying height by extending the telescoping mast. In addition, the arrangement of the delivery line on the telescoping section of the mast also ensures the stability and a precise orientation of the delivery line at great heights.

[0018] Due to the fact that the line segment can be arranged on the telescoping mast by means of a connection to the delivery line, the line segment can also be moved to a certain conveying height. It is also conceivable to arrange the line segment directly on a telescoping mast section assigned thereto. In this case, a mast section ensures the stability and accuracy of the respectively assigned line segment.

[0019] In another preferred embodiment, the distance compensation device comprises an inner pipe and an outer pipe. The inner pipe and the outer pipe can be moved at least linearly relative to one another. This makes it possible to vary the length of the distance compensation device. In this case, the distance compensation device has its shortest length when the inner pipe is completely inserted into the outer pipe. Distances between the distance compensation device and a line segment, as well as distances between a line segment and the delivery line, can be respectively reduced or closed by moving apart the inner pipe and the outer pipe.

[0020] If the distance compensation device, the line segment and the delivery line contact one another, another advantage can be seen in that unscheduled movements of the delivery line in its axial direction can be compensated by respectively moving the inner pipe and the outer pipe into one another or apart from one another.

[0021] In addition, the entire precision distance adjustment is realized by displacing the inner pipe and the outer pipe relative to one another when the contacts between the distance compensation device, the line segment and the delivery line are established. Consequently, it is possible to forgo an adjustment by means of the telescoping mast such that each mast section can be fixed at a predetermined location after its complete extension.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the inner pipe and the outer pipe are sealed relative to one another in a sliding fashion. In this case, they form an intermediate space that can be filled with grease and/or a rinsing fluid and is fluidically connected to a reservoir. In this way, the inner pipe and the outer pipe can slide relative to one another when they are extended or retracted. The grease and/or the rinsing fluid in the space between the inner pipe and the outer pipe prevent thick-matter flowing through the inner pipe and the outer pipe from entering the intermediate space.

[0023] The fluidic connection of the intermediate space to a reservoir makes it possible for grease and/or rinsing fluid to flow from the intermediate space, the size of which decreases proportionally to the displacement path, into the reservoir when the inner pipe and the outer pipe are moved apart from one another or for grease and/or rinsing fluid to flow from the reservoir into the intermediate space, the size of which increases proportionally to the displacement path, when the inner pipe and the outer pipe are retracted into one another. In this way, it can be ensured that the intermediate space is completely filled with grease and/or rinsing fluid in any relative position between the inner pipe and the outer pipe such that the entering of thick-matter into the intermediate space can be counteracted regardless of the position of the inner pipe and the outer pipe relative to one another.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment, the distance compensation device comprises a scissors pipe. In this case, the scissors pipe comprises at least one swing pipe that is provided with joints on its ends. In this way, the distance between the distance compensation device and the line segment or between the line segment and the delivery line can be compensated with the position of the at least one swing pipe in space. In addition, inadvertent movements of the delivery line in its axial direction can be compensated by means of the scissors pipe without varying the length of the flow-through distance compensation device.

[0025] The movement of the scissors pipe furthermore is realized by means of articulated connections that can be easily implemented in technical respects.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, at least one swing pipe is realized in a C-shaped or S-shaped fashion. In this case, the at least one swing pipe pivots at its joints about axes that preferably lie perpendicular, further preferably not perpendicular, to a main moving direction of the distance compensation device. In a preferred embodiment that comprises at least two swing pipes, this makes it possible to realize the extension of the distance compensation device or of the scissors pipe along an axis.

[0027] In another preferred embodiment, the distance compensation device comprises an elastic pipe section. This makes it possible to realize the distance compensation device in one piece. The elastic pipe section can be stretched in order to extend the distance compensation device and, for example, to thusly compensate distances between the distance compensation device, the line segment and the delivery line. This movement can be reversed again by respectively contracting the elastic pipe section or compressing the elastic pipe section.

[0028] In addition, the elastic pipe section has certain suspension and damping properties that can become effective, in particular, during inadvertent movements of the delivery line in the direction of its axis.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the distance compensation device comprises a drive. In this case, the drive is preferably realized mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically and/or electrically. In this way, distances between the distance compensation device, the line segment and the delivery line can be compensated independently of the drive of the telescoping mast. In addition, the drive allows a precise adjustment of the distance compensation device such that the distance compensation device can be brought in contact with a line segment or a line segment can be brought in contact with the delivery line.

[0030] In another preferred embodiment, the drive of the distance compensation device can be deactivated or decoupled therefrom such that the distance compensation device is able to move freely. In this way, the distance compensation device can compensate unexpected movements of the delivery line in its axial direction. Consequently, the occurrence of tensions between the delivery line and the distance compensation device can be prevented during the conveying operation. In addition, the ability of the distance compensation device to move freely also has positive effects on the connection of the delivery line to the telescoping mast. Tensions occurring between these two components also can be at least partially compensated by the freely movable distance compensation device.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment, a thick-matter to be conveyed can flow between a supply line, the distance compensation device, the line segment and the delivery line. In this way, a flow connection between the components can be realized and unexpected movements in the longitudinal direction of the delivery line can be simultaneously compensated.

[0032] In another preferred embodiment, the distance compensation device is separably connected to a line segment. The connection is preferably realized in the form of a threaded connection, a coupling or a snap-on connection. In this way, a flow connection between the distance compensation device and a line segment can be quickly and easily realized and just as easily and quickly separated again.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment, the line segments respectively comprise at least one end region that is designed for producing a separable interference fit with a complementary end region of a line segment to be connected thereto. In this case, it is preferred that a line segment respectively comprises a male and a female end region. This makes it possible to forgo additional connecting elements, which need to be interlocked separately, for connecting the individual line segments and to achieve a sealed connection by means of a pressing force made available by the distance compensation device. Work steps for separately connecting the line segments to one another and/or to the delivery line or the supply line therefore can be eliminated such that the set-up time can be reduced. It is furthermore possible to forgo susceptible connecting elements.

[0034] The present invention furthermore aims to disclose a method for extending a delivery line that is arranged on a telescoping mast and serves for conveying thick-matter, particularly for conveying concrete, preferably by means of the device according to one of Claims 1-14.

[0035] This objective is attained by means of a method having the features of claim 15. Advantageous embodiments of this method are disclosed in the dependent claims.

[0036] The invention accordingly proposes a method for extending a delivery line that is arranged on a telescoping mast and serves for conveying thick-matter, particularly for conveying concrete, preferably by means of a device of the above-described type. According to the invention, a distance between a line segment and the delivery line and/or a distance between the line segment and the supply line is compensated by means of a distance compensation device. This makes it possible to attain the above-described advantages.

[0037] It is preferred to insert the line segment between a supply line and the delivery line, to connect the line segment to the delivery line by means of the distance compensation device, to interlock the line segment with the delivery line and to interlock the line segment with the compensation device. It is particularly preferred to retract the compensation device prior to interlocking the line segment therewith, to raise the delivery line and the line segment connected thereto by means of the telescoping mast and to insert an additional line segment between the supply line and the delivery line.

[0038] In a preferred variation, the line segment is inserted between a supply line and the delivery line, the line segment is connected to the delivery line by means of the distance compensation device and the line segment, the delivery line and the compensation device are non-positively connected to one another by means of an axial force exerted by the distance compensation device. It is particularly preferred to displaceably insert at least two line segments into the distance between the supply line and the retracted compensation device and the delivery line, which is produced by means of the telescoping mast, and to non-positively connect the line segments to one another by means of an axial force exerted by the distance compensation device.

[0039] The above-described advantages are attained with the aid of this method.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0040] Other preferred embodiments and aspects of the present invention are explained in the following description of the figures. In these figures:

[0041] FIG. 1 schematically shows a view of a first exemplary embodiment of a device for conveying thick-matter,

[0042] FIG. 2 schematically shows a view of a device for conveying thick-matter according to FIG. 1, wherein a first mast element of a telescoping mast is completely retracted and a distance compensation device is connected to a delivery line,

[0043] FIG. 3 schematically shows a view of a device for conveying thick-matter according to FIG. 1, wherein a first element of the telescoping mast is completely extended such that a distance greater than a line segment occurs between a distance compensation device and a delivery line,

[0044] FIG. 4 schematically shows a view of a device for conveying thick-matter according to FIG. 1, wherein a first element of a telescoping mast is completely extended, wherein the compensation device is extended in such a way that the compensation device and a line segment contact one another and a line segment and the delivery line contact one another,

[0045] FIG. 5 schematically shows a detailed view of the distance compensation device according to FIGS. 1-4, and

[0046] FIG. 6 schematically shows a detailed view of a distance compensation device, wherein the distance compensation device is realized in the form of a scissors pipe.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0047] Preferred exemplary embodiments are described below with reference to the figures. In these figures, identical, similar or equally acting elements are identified by the same reference symbols and some of these elements are not repeatedly described below in order to avoid redundancies.

[0048] FIG. 1 shows a device for conveying thick-matter, particularly for conveying concrete. In this case, the device comprises a delivery line 5, through which concrete can be pumped and delivered to a desired location through the outlet opening 52. The delivery line 5 can be extended with line segments 4 if the position, at which the concrete is required, is located at a greater height or at a greater distance.

[0049] This is realized by producing a flow connection between a supply line 2 for supplying thick-matter, a distance compensation device 3, the length of which can be varied, and the delivery line 5 to be extended. For this purpose, a first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3 is initially separated from a flange 54 of the delivery line 5. In addition, a first mast element 62 of a telescoping mast 6 connected to the delivery line 5 is extended as far as possible. In this way, a distance that is greater than the length of a line segment 4 is created between the distance compensation device 3 and the delivery line 5.

[0050] An inserting device 42 moves a line segment 4 into a positioning device 40 between the distance compensation device 3 and the delivery line 5. The remaining distances A1, A2 between the line segment 4 and the delivery line 5 or between the distance compensation device 3 and the line segment 4 can be compensated by extending the distance compensation device 3. For this purpose, an outer pipe 31 of the distance compensation device 3 can be extended such that the first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3 comes in contact with the second flange 48 of the line segment 4 whereby the distance A2 between the distance compensation device 3 and the line segment 4 is closed.

[0051] In addition, the distance compensation device 3 can be extended further, wherein this causes the line segment 4 to be displaced until the first flange 46 of the line segment 4 comes in contact with the flange 54 of the delivery line 5 whereby the distance A1 between the line segment 4 and the delivery line 5 is closed.

[0052] The supply line 2 is fluidically connected to a (not-shown) concrete pump. A flange 20 of the supply line 2 is connected to a second flange 33 of the distance compensation device 3. This connection 22 preferably is a threaded connection, a coupling or a snap-on connection. A flow connection accordingly exists between the supply line 2 and the distance compensation device 3.

[0053] An inner pipe 30 extends from the second flange 33 of the distance compensation device 3. An outer pipe 31 is supported on the inner pipe 30 in a sliding fashion and ends in a first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3. The first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3 is connected to a drive 34 by means of a first guide arm 35. The second flange 33 of the distance compensation device 3 is analogously connected to the drive 34 by means of a second guide arm 36. The inner pipe 30 and the outer pipe 31 can be displaced relative to one another by means of the drive 34. In this case, the extendable length of the distance compensation device 3 is limited by a minimum overlap between the inner pipe 30 and the outer pipe 31 that ensures a fluidic connection between the inner pipe and the outer pipe. If the inner pipe 30 and the outer pipe 31 are moved relative to one another, the inner pipe, which is connected to the supply line 2, remains stationary while the outer pipe is displaced relative to the inner pipe 30.

[0054] The drive 34 of the distance compensation device 3 is realized electrically in the form of a linear motor. The drive 34 may alternatively also be realized mechanically, hydraulically or pneumatically.

[0055] In FIG. 1, the first flange of the distance compensation device 3 and the second flange 48 of the line segment 4 are spaced apart by the distance A2.

[0056] The distance A2 is followed by the line segment 4 that is moved into a position, in which it is aligned with the distance compensation device 3 and the delivery line 5, by means of the positioning device 40. In this case, the line segment 4 comprises a second flange 48 that can be connected to the first flange 32 of the distance compensation device. The connection between the second flange 48 of the line segment 4 and the first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3 is realized in the form of a coupling connection. The connection may alternatively also be realized in the form of a threaded connection or a snap-on connection.

[0057] The positioning device 40 is furthermore connected to the base element 60 of the telescoping mast 6. This connection can be produced, for example, by means of the (not-shown) chassis frame of a truck.

[0058] The line segment 4 can be taken hold of by an inserting device 42 that is able to transfer the line segment 4 from a magazine 44 into the positioning device 40 between the distance compensation device 3 and the delivery line 5 or to transfer the line segment 4 from the positioning device 40 into the magazine 44. The inserting device 42 is equipped with a (not-shown) electric drive, by means of which the line segments 4 are on the one hand taken hold of and released and the line segments 4 are on the other hand transferred between the magazine 44 and the positioning device 40. The drive of the inserting device 42 may alternatively also be realized mechanically, hydraulically or pneumatically.

[0059] The line segment 4 furthermore comprises a first flange 46 that can be connected to the flange 54 of the delivery line 5.

[0060] In FIG. 1, the first flange 46 of the line segment 4 and the flange 54 of the delivery line 5 are spaced apart by a distance A1.

[0061] The delivery line 5 is rigidly connected to the first mast element 62 of the telescoping mast 6 by means of a mast connection 56. When the first mast element 62 is completely extended as illustrated in FIG. 1, the flange 54 of the delivery line 5 is positioned at the height of a stationary connecting device 66 arranged on the base element 60 of the telescoping mast 6. The stationary connecting device 66 serves for providing a (not-shown) separable coupling 58 in order to connect the delivery line 5 to the line segment 4 by means of the flange 54 of the delivery line 5 and the first flange 46 of the line segment 4. The stationary connecting device 66 is provided with a (not-shown) electric drive. The drive of the stationary connecting device 66 may alternatively also be realized mechanically, hydraulically or pneumatically.

[0062] The mast connection 56 for connecting the delivery line 5 to the first mast element 62 of the telescoping mast 6 is realized in the form of a pipe bracket. In this case, the pipe bracket is connected to the first mast element 62 by means of a threaded connection. The pipe bracket may alternatively also be connected to the first mast element 62 by means of a welded connection, a riveted connection or a similar connection.

[0063] The telescoping mast 6 comprises a base element 60 that is rigidly connected to the (not-shown) chassis frame of a truck. The base element 60 therefore forms a stationary component of the device for conveying thick-matter 1.

[0064] The first mast element 62 and the second mast element 64 are integrated into the base element 60 in a telescoping fashion. In this case, the two mast element 62, 64 respectively can be successively extended from the base element 60 or retracted into the base element 60. In FIG. 1, the first mast element 62 is illustrated in the completely extended state. The first mast element 62 is in this case fixed on the second mast element by means of (not-shown) bolts. In addition, the second mast element 64 is fixed on the base element 60 by means of (not-shown) bolts in its retracted position. The mast elements may alternatively also be fixed in their retracted or extended position by means of threaded connections, couplings or snap-on connections.

[0065] The components of the telescoping mast 6 are made of steel. The components of the telescoping mast 6 may alternatively also be made of aluminum or another suitable material.

[0066] The telescoping mast 6 furthermore comprises a (not-shown) electric drive, by means of which the mast elements 62, 64 can be extended or retracted. The drive of the telescoping mast 6 may alternatively also be realized mechanically, hydraulically or pneumatically.

[0067] Starting at the mast connection 56, the delivery line 5 continues in the form of a mast line 50. The mast line 50 ends in the outlet opening 52.

[0068] FIG. 2 shows the device for conveying thick-matter 1 according to FIG. 1, wherein a direct flow connection is realized between the supply line 2 and the delivery line 5 by means of the distance compensation device 3. In this case, the first flange 33 of the distance compensation device 3 is connected to the flange 54 of the delivery line 5 by means of a coupling connection.

[0069] The drive 34 of the distance compensation device 3 is in a deactivated state that makes it possible to displace the inner pipe 30 and the outer pipe 31 relative to one another in an unobstructed fashion. In this way, unscheduled movements of the delivery line 5 along the conveying direction can be compensated.

[0070] The two line segments 4 for extending the delivery line 5 are not used and located in the magazine 44.

[0071] The first mast element 62 of the telescoping mast 6 is fixed on the second mast element 64 by means of a (not-shown) bolt connection in its completely retracted position. In addition, the second mast element 64 is connected to the base element 60 by means of a (not-shown) bolt connection in its completely retracted position.

[0072] FIG. 3 shows the device for conveying thick-matter 1 according to FIG. 1, wherein the first mast element 62 of the telescoping mast 6 is extended as far as possible and no flow connection exists between the distance compensation device 3 and the delivery line 5.

[0073] In this position, the first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3 and the flange 54 of the delivery line 5 are spaced apart by a distance that is greater than the length of a line segment 4. The distance compensation device 3 is in a completely retracted state in this case.

[0074] The line segments 4 are not used and accommodated in the magazine 44.

[0075] The flange 54 of the delivery line 5 is located at the height of the stationary connecting device 66 arranged on the base element 60 of the telescoping mast 6.

[0076] The first mast element 62 is fixed on the second mast element 64 by means of a (not-shown) bolt connection in the position, in which it is extended as far as possible. In addition, the second mast element 64 is fixed on the base element 60 of the telescoping mast 6 by means of a bolt connection in its completely retracted position.

[0077] FIG. 4 shows the device for conveying thick-matter 1 according to FIG. 1, wherein the first mast element 62 is extended as far as possible and a flow connection is provided between the supply line 2, the distance compensation device 3, the line segment 4 and the delivery line 5.

[0078] In this case, the distance compensation device 3 is in an extended state, by means of which the distances A1 and A2 illustrated in FIG. 1 were compensated.

[0079] The first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3 is connected to the second flange 48 of the line segment 4 by means of a coupling connection.

[0080] The line segment 4 lies in the positioning device 40 in an axially displaceable fashion. In this case, no contact exists between the line segment 4 and the inserting device 2, by means of which the line segment was previously transferred into the positioning device 40.

[0081] The first flange 46 of the line segment 4 is connected to the flange 54 of the delivery line 5 by means of a coupling connection. The coupling connection was previously engaged by means of the stationary connecting device 66.

[0082] The first mast element 62 of the telescoping mast 6 is fixed on the second mast element 64 by means of a bolt connection in the position, in which it is extended as far as possible. In addition, the second mast element 64 is fixed on the base element 60 of the telescoping mast 6 by means of a bolt connection in its completely retracted position.

[0083] The conveyance of thick-matter can begin after the connections between the distance compensation device 3 and the line segment 4 and between the line segment 4 and the supply line 5 have been realized. In this case, the drive 34 of the distance compensation device 3 is deactivated or the distance compensation device 3 is decoupled from the drive 34 such that the inner pipe 30 and the outer pipe 31 of the distance compensation device 3 can be freely displaced relative to one another and unexpected longitudinal movements of the delivery line 5 can be compensated.

[0084] The coupling connection between the first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3 and the second flange 48 of the line segment 4 may alternatively be disengaged again and the device for conveying thick-matter 1 can be prepared for the insertion of an additional line segment 4.

[0085] For this purpose, the drive 34 once again moves the distance compensation device 3 into its completely retracted position. In addition, the bolt connection between the second mast element 64 and the base element 60 of the telescoping mast 6 is separated and the second mast element 64 is moved into its (not-shown) position, in which it is extended as far as possible. In this way, a distance that is greater than the length of the line segment 4, which is still located in the magazine 44, is created between the first flange 32 of the distance compensation device 3 and the second flange 48 of the line segment 4 that is already integrated into the delivery line 5. The insertion of the line segment 4 still located in the magazine 44 takes place analogous to the insertion of the line segment 4 already integrated into the delivery line.

[0086] FIG. 5 shows a detailed view of the distance compensation device according to FIGS. 1-4. This figure clearly shows the intermediate space 37 between the inner pipe 30 and the outer pipe 31 that is filled with grease and/or rinsing fluid.

[0087] The inner pipe 30 comprises a constriction, on which a sliding bearing 39a is arranged, on an end that lies opposite of the flange 33. The sliding bearing 39a prevents the grease and/or the rinsing fluid from escaping from the intermediate space 37. If the outer pipe 31 is displaced relative to the inner pipe 30, the sliding bearing 39a slides along the inner circumferential surface of the outer pipe 31.

[0088] The outer pipe 31 comprises a circumferential indentation, in which a sliding bearing 39b is arranged, in the inner circumferential surface on an end that lies opposite of the flange 32. The sliding bearing 39b prevents the grease and/or rinsing fluid from escaping from the intermediate space 37. If the outer pipe 31 is displaced relative to the inner pipe 30, the sliding bearing 39b slides on the outer surface of the inner pipe 30.

[0089] The volume of the intermediate space 37 changes proportionally to the position of the distance compensation device 3. In order to compensate such a volume change, the intermediate space 37 is connected to a reservoir 300 via a line 301, wherein said reservoir ensures that the intermediate space 37 is always filled with a maximum volume of grease and/or rinsing fluid.

[0090] FIG. 6 shows a detailed view of the distance compensation device, wherein the distance compensation device is realized in the form of a scissors pipe 8.

[0091] In this case, the flange 20 of the supply line 2 is connected to a flange 80 of a first pipe elbow 82 by means of a coupling. The first pipe elbow 82 is connected to the drive 34 by means of the second guide arm 36.

[0092] At the beginning of the pipe elbow at the height of the flange 80, the pipe axis of the first pipe elbow 82 points in the main moving direction R of the scissors pipe 8. In addition, the first pipe elbow 82 forms a 90.degree. deflection such that the axis of the first pipe elbow 82 lies perpendicular to the main moving direction R of the scissors pipe at the height of the first articulated connection 84.

[0093] The first pipe elbow 82 is connected to a first C-shaped swing pipe 87 by means of the first articulated connection 84. The first swing pipe 87 may alternatively also be realized in an S-shaped fashion.

[0094] The first C-shaped swing pipe 87 can be pivoted relative to the first pipe elbow 82 about an axis extending perpendicular to the main moving direction R of the scissors pipe 8 by means of the first articulated connection 84. In addition, the first C-shaped swing pipe 87 is connected to a second C-shaped swing pipe 88 by means of a second articulated connection 85.

[0095] The second C-shaped swing pipe 88 is furthermore connected to a second pipe elbow 83 by means of a third articulated connection 86. In this case, the second C-shaped swing pipe 88 can be pivoted relative to the second pipe elbow about a pivoting axis extending perpendicular to the main moving direction of the scissors pipe 8 by means of the third articulated connection 86.

[0096] The second pipe elbow 83 is arranged on the drive 34 by means of the first guide arm 35. The second pipe elbow 83 furthermore comprises a 90.degree. deflection such that the axis on the end of the second pipe elbow 83 extends parallel to the main moving direction R of the scissors pipe 8 at the height of a flange 81.

[0097] The flange 81 of the second pipe elbow 83 is connected to the flange 54 of the delivery line 5 by means of a coupling.

[0098] The drive 34 is an electrically operated linear motor that is able to vary the distance between the first pipe elbow 82 and the second pipe elbow 83 in the main moving direction R by means of the guide arms 35, 36. The first and the second swing pipe 87, 88 are in this case moved relative to one another about the second articulated connection 85. The second articulated connection 85 pivots about an axis that extends perpendicular to the main moving direction R of the scissors pipe 8. The drive 34 may alternatively also be realized mechanically, hydraulically or pneumatically.

[0099] During the conveying operation, the drive 34 may be deactivated or the scissors pipe may be decoupled from this drive such that the scissors pipe 8 can vary the distance between the supply line 2 and the delivery line 5 in an unobstructed fashion. In this way, unexpected longitudinal movements of the delivery line can be compensated.

[0100] A flow connection between the supply line 2 and the delivery line 5 is provided at all times by means of the first pipe elbow 82, the first swing pipe 87, the second swing pipe 88 and the second pipe elbow 83 independently of the position of the scissors pipe.

[0101] In a (not-shown) alternative embodiment, the line segments 3 respectively comprise at least one end region that is designed for producing a separable interference fit with a complementary end region of a line segment 3 connected thereto instead of the flanges 46, 48 illustrated in FIGS. 1-6. In this case, it is preferred that the line segments 3 respectively comprise a male and a female end region. In addition, the delivery line 5 comprises an end region that corresponds to the end regions of the line segment 3 lying in front thereof, preferably a female end region, instead of the flange 54 illustrated in FIGS. 1-6. The distance compensation device 3 furthermore comprises a male end region instead of the flange 32 illustrated in FIGS. 1-6.

[0102] In this embodiment, the line segment 4 is moved into the distance between the distance compensation device 3 and the delivery line 5. It is connected to the second mast element 64 of the telescoping mast 6 in such a way that the line segment 4 can be displaced by extending or retracting the mast element 64. In this case, the connection between the mast element 64 and the line segment 4 can be produced by means of a receptacle arranged on the mast element 64.

[0103] Once the line segment 4 is accommodated in the receptacle of the mast element 64, the second mast element 64 is extended as far as possible. The delivery line 5, as well as the just inserted line segment 4, is moved along in this case. The distance A1 also exists between the delivery line 5 and the line segment 4 in the extended state. When the mast element 64 is extended as far as possible, a distance that is greater than the length of a line segment 4 also exists between the line segment 4 and the distance compensation device 3.

[0104] In a next step, another line segment 4 can be inserted between the already inserted line segment 4 and the distance compensation device 3 in the above-described fashion.

[0105] Once the desired number of line segments 4 has been inserted, the distances A1 between the delivery line 5 and the first inserted line segment 4, the distances between the line segments 4 and the distance A2 between the last inserted line segment 4 and the distance compensation device 3 can be closed by extending the distance compensation device 3.

[0106] In this case, the male end region of the distance compensation device 3 is initially inserted into the female end region of the last inserted line segment 4 such that the distance A2 is closed. Subsequently, the last inserted line segment 4 is pushed into the next line segment connected to the mast element 64 by means of the distance compensation device 3, wherein the distance A1 is closed in that the male end region of the last inserted line segment is pushed into the female end region of the line segment 4 connected to the mast element 64.

[0107] The distance compensation device 3 is eventually extended until the male end region of the line segment 4 connected to the mast element 64 has been inserted into the female end region of the delivery line 5. In this case, the distance compensation device 3 exerts such a force upon all end regions that it produces tight interference fits at the respective connecting points and thereby produces a flow connection between the supply line 2, the distance compensation device 3, the line segments 4 and the delivery line 5.

[0108] In addition, the connection between the line segment 4 and the mast element 64 must be realized in such a way that sufficient friction for carrying along the line segment 45 is generated, but a displacement in the main moving direction R by means of the distance compensation device 3 is simultaneously ensured.

[0109] The described steps are carried out in the reverse sequence in order to remove the line segments 4 during the retraction of the telescoping mast 6.

[0110] If applicable, all individual characteristics illustrated in the individual exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another and/or interchanged without deviating from the scope of the invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0111] 1 Device for conveying thick-matter [0112] 2 Supply line [0113] 20 Flange [0114] 3 Distance compensation device [0115] 30 Inner pipe [0116] 31 Outer pipe [0117] 32 First flange [0118] 33 Second flange [0119] 34 Drive [0120] 35 First guide arm [0121] 36 Second guide arm [0122] 37 Intermediate space [0123] 39', '' Sliding bearing [0124] 300 Reservoir [0125] 301 Line [0126] 4', '' Line segment [0127] 40 Positioning device [0128] 42 Inserting device [0129] 44 Magazine [0130] 46 First flange [0131] 48 Second flange [0132] 5 Delivery line [0133] 50 Mast line [0134] 52 Outlet opening [0135] 54 Flange [0136] 56 Mast connection [0137] 6 Telescoping mast [0138] 60 Base element [0139] 62 First mast element [0140] 64 Second mast element [0141] 66 Stationary connecting device [0142] 8 Scissors pipe [0143] 80 First flange [0144] 81 Second flange [0145] 82 First pipe elbow [0146] 83 Second pipe elbow [0147] 84 First articulated connection [0148] 85 Second articulated connection [0149] 86 Third articulated connection [0150] 87 First swing pipe [0151] 88 Second swing pipe [0152] A1 Distance [0153] A2 Distance [0154] R main moving direction

Claims

1. A device for conveying thick-matter (1), preferably for conveying concrete, comprising a delivery line (5), wherein the delivery line (5) can be extended by inserting at least one line segment (4), characterized in that a distance between the line segment (4) and the delivery line (5) can be compensated by means of a distance compensation device (3).

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that a distance between the distance compensation device (3) and the line segment (4) can be compensated by means of the distance compensation device (3).

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a distance between the supply line (2) and the line segment (4) can be compensated by means of the distance compensation device (3), wherein the distance compensation device (3) is connected to the delivery line (5) or the supply line (2).

4. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance compensation device (3) is arranged on a base element (60) of a telescoping mast (6), in that the delivery line (5) is arranged on a telescoping section of the telescoping mast (6), and in that the line segment (4) can be connected to the delivery line (5).

5. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance compensation device (3) comprises an inner pipe (30) and an outer pipe (31) that can be moved relative to one another.

6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that the inner pipe (30) and the outer pipe (31) are sealed relative to one another in a sliding fashion and include an intermediate space (37) that can be filled with grease and/or a rinsing fluid and preferably is fluidically connected to a reservoir (300).

7. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance compensation device (3) comprises a scissors pipe (8) that includes at least one swing pipe (87', 88), wherein the at least one swing pipe (87, 88) comprises joints (84, 58, 86) on its ends.

8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that at least one swing pipe (87, 88) is realized in a C-shaped or S-shaped fashion, wherein the at least one swing pipe (87, 88) can be pivoted about at least one axis that lies perpendicular or not perpendicular to a main moving direction (R) of the distance compensation device (3).

9. The device according to one of claims 1-4, characterized in that the distance compensation device (3) comprises an elastic pipe section.

10. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance compensation device comprises a drive (34), wherein the drive (34) is preferably realized mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically and/or electrically.

11. The device according to claim 10, characterized in that the drive (34) can be deactivated or decoupled such that the distance compensation device (3) is able to move freely.

12. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that thick-matter can be conveyed through a supply line (2), the distance compensation device (3), the line segment (4) and the delivery line (5).

13. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance compensation device (3) can be separably connected to a line segment (4), wherein a connection preferably is a threaded connection, a coupling connection or a snap-on connection.

14. The device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the line segments (4) respectively comprise at least one end region that is designed for producing a separable interference fit with a complementary end region of an adjacent line segment (4), wherein it is preferred that a line segment (4) respectively comprises a male and a female end region.

15. A method for extending a delivery line (5) that is arranged on a telescoping mast (6) and serves for conveying thick-matter, particularly for conveying concrete, preferably by means of a device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a distance between a line segment (4) and the delivery line (5) and/or a distance between a line segment (4) and the supply line (2) is compensated by means of a distance compensation device (3).

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that the line segment (4) is inserted between a supply line (2) and the delivery line (5), in that the line segment (4) is connected to the delivery line (5) by means of the distance compensation device (3), in that the line segment (4) is interlocked with the delivery line (5) and in that the line segment (4) is interlocked with the compensation device (3).

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that the compensation device (3) is retracted before it is interlocked with the line segment (4), in that the delivery line (5) and the line segment (4) connected thereto are raised by means of the telescoping mast (6), and in that an additional line segment (4) is inserted between the supply line (2) and the delivery line (5).

18. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that a line segment (4) is inserted between a supply line (2) and the delivery line (5), in that the line segment (4) is connected to the delivery line (5) by means of the distance compensation device (3), and in that the line segment (4), the delivery line (5) and the compensation device (3) are non-positively connected to one another by means of an axial force exerted by the distance compensation device (3).

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that at least two line segments (4) are displaceably positioned in the distance between the supply line with the retracted compensation device (3) and the delivery line produced by the telescoping mast (6) and connected to one another, preferably tightly connected, particularly non-positively connected, by means of an axial force exerted by the distance compensation device (3).