TANKER EQUIPMENT FOR COLLECTING DRY MATERIAL AND WET MATERIAL

Abstract

 The present invention relates to a tanker-type equipment for collecting wet material or dry material. The equipment (1) comprises a mobile vehicle (3) comprising a frame (4) on which a collection tank (2) is installed, said collection tank (2) comprising at least a first compartment (11) for collecting material. The equipment further comprises a vacuum assembly (50) for generating a vacuum at least inside said first compartment (11) and a suction line which brings said vacuum assembly (50) into communication with said first compartment (11) so that, following the activation of said vacuum assembly (50), an air flow coming from said first compartment (11) and directed to said vacuum assembly (50) is drawn through said suction line (15). According to the invention, the equipment comprises a washing assembly (30) for dispersing water in said air flow coming from said first compartment (11) so as to moisten any solid particles contained in said air flow, said washing assembly (30) being activated at least during the collection of dry material. The equipment (1) further comprises a first cyclone filter (21) and a second cyclone filter (22) arranged in series along said suction line (15), wherein said second cyclone (22) is arranged between said first cyclone filter (21) and said first compartment (22) and wherein the solid particles and water dispersed by said washing assembly (30) are separated from said air flow at least in said first cyclone (21).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention falls within the field of the production of equipment and systems for collecting waste material in a liquid, sludge or solid state. In particular, the present invention relates to a tanker-type equipment which can be used for collecting dry material and/or for collecting wet material, i.e. solid material mixed with a liquid.

PRIOR ART

[0002] The use of equipment for collecting different materials which can be broadly divided into wet materials and dry materials is widespread. Among known equipment there are the tankers, i.e. mobile vehicles (namely, motor vehicles such as trucks) provided with a frame on which a tank intended to collect a material, and possibly treating the collected material, is installed. Typically, the collection into the tank occurs by means of a vacuum generated inside the tank itself by means of a vacuum assembly. The latter comprises a positive displacement compressor, for example of the type described in patent applications EP3106611, EP3106610, and EP3332123 to the same Applicant, or alternatively a centrifugal pump. In any case, the vacuum assembly is operatively connected to the tank by means of a vacuum line intended to be flown by an air flow drawn by the tank due to the negative pressure generated by the same vacuum assembly.

[0003] In any case, there is a need to protect the vacuum assembly, in particular the positive displacement pump, from solid or liquid particles possibly present in the air flow drawn through the vacuum line. This need is above all felt when the collected material is a dry material. The expansion of such material in the tank is in fact associated with raising large amounts of dust (light volatile particles), a fraction of which unavoidably remains in the drawn air flow, even if interception devices or filters arranged within the tank are provided in the tank.

[0004] In order to remove dust present in the drawn air flow, bag filters arranged upstream of the intake of the volumetric pump are usually employed. These filters comprise one or more calm chambers whose volume is set based on the air flow rate treated by the vacuum assembly (usually, 2, 3 or 4 cubic meters) and in which filtering bags are arranged. Due to their volume, bag filters take up a lot of space on the vehicle and are typically installed between the cab and the tank. The presence of a bag filter significantly affects the vehicle size and thus the final production costs.

[0005] Beside that, practice has shown that bag filters cannot be used with wet material, even less with liquid material. The contact of a water-containing material with the filtering bags would cause them quickly to clog. For this reason, in the case of equipment intended to collect also wet material, beside dry material, typically two suction lines are provided: a first line comprising a bag filter and activated when dry material is collected, and a second suction line provided with filtration means intended to separate the wet portion contained in the drawn air flow. Providing two suction lines significantly affects the design and production costs of the equipment.

[0006] If the equipment size dose not allow for this solution, or when the cost of the equipment has to be limited, it is used a single suction line, with the advice to remove the filtering bags every time wet material has to be collected and to install them again every time dry material has to be collected. However, these servicing operations require much time and are complex and thus are extremely critical in terms of costs. Therefore, to avoid these drawbacks, presently an equipment intended for the collection of dry material is not or very rarely used for collecting wet material.

[0007] In any case, the selection of a bag filter represents a critical aspect in terms of design, taken into account how significantly the volume of such filters affects the layout of the equipment (tanker). At the same time, their installation greatly increases the unladen weight of the equipment itself.

[0008] In view of the above a need thus arises to provide a new technical solution which allows the above-mentioned drawbacks to be overcome, avoiding in particular the provision of two suction lines and the use of bag filters.

SUMMARY

[0009] The main task of the present invention is to provide an equipment for collecting wet material and dry material which allows the above-mentioned drawbacks to be overcome.

[0010] Within the scope of this task, a first object of the present invention is to provide a tanker-type equipment for collecting wet material or dry material which does not require the use of bag filters. Another object of the present invention is to provide a tanker-type equipment which requires a single suction line. Another object of the present invention is to provide a tanker-type equipment wherein the filtration of air drawn by the vacuum assembly is obtained by means of devices having a relatively small volume. Not least object of the present invention is to provide an equipment which is reliable and can be produced easily and at competitive costs.

[0011] The Applicant has noticed that the above-mentioned task and objects can be achieved by arranging at least two cyclone filters in series along the suction line and by providing for a dispersion of water in the air, so as to moisten any solid particles present therein, upstream of, at the inlet of or inside one of said cyclone filters, preferably the cyclone filter located nearer to the vacuum assembly. It is thus promoted the separation of particles which become bound with water before the air reaches the vacuum assembly. Such separation is determined by the centrifugal force associated with the whirling motion to which the air flow is subjected due to the configuration of the cyclone filter. In particular, the above-mentioned tasks and objects are achieved by a tanker-type equipment for collecting wet material and dry material, wherein said equipment comprises:

• a vehicle including a frame on which a collection tank is installed, said collection tank comprising at least a first compartment for collecting said dry material or said wet material;
• a vacuum assembly for generating a vacuum at least inside said first compartment;
• a suction line through which the first compartment communicates with the vacuum assembly so that, following the activation of said vacuum assembly, an air flow which flows through said suction line is drawn from said first compartment.

[0012] According to the invention, the equipment comprises a washing assembly for dispersing water in said air flow so as to moisten solid particles contained in said air flow, thus promoting their aggregation, said washing assembly being activated at least during the collection of dry material.

[0013] According to the invention, the equipment comprises at least a first cyclone filter operatively arranged along the suction line, wherein said first cyclone filter induces said air flow and said water dispersed therein in a whirling motion following which a wet mixture, formed by said water and said solid particles, is separated from said air flow.

[0014] The equipment further comprises a second cyclone filter operatively arranged along said suction line between the first cyclone filter and said first compartment to intercept a first fraction of solid particles contained in the air flow coming from said first compartment when the collected material is dry or to intercept a wet mixture formed by water and solid particles contained in said air flow when the collected material is wet. Said second cyclone filter comprises an inlet communicating with the first compartment through a first section of the suction line, a first outlet to let the first fraction of solid particles or the wet mixture separated from the air flow out and a second outlet to let the air flow deprived of said first fraction of solid particles or of said wet mixture out.

[0015] Still according to the invention, the first cyclone filter comprises an inlet communicating with the second outlet of the second cyclone filter, a first outlet communicating with a compartment of the tank, through at least one cyclone discharge valve, and a second outlet communicating with the vacuum assembly.

[0016] Advantageously, the use of cyclone filters arranged in series and of the washing assembly makes it possible to provide a single suction line. In particular, when wet material is collected, the cyclone filters can act on the air flow containing solid particles and water deriving from the collection itself. When dry material is collected, water is instead introduced by means of the washing assembly. In this second case, by dispersing water in the air flow drawn from the first compartment, the first cyclone filter operates always in presence of water for a better filtration. The use of cyclone filters is extremely advantageous in terms of design and production costs. Advantageously, the volume of a cyclone filter is smaller than the volume of a bag filter.

[0017] According to a possible embodiment, the tank defines a second compartment, different from said first compartment, in which only wet material is collected, wherein said first outlet of said first cyclone communicates with said second compartment. Advantageously, the tank has two separate compartments, which facilitate the selective discharge of the tank. When dry material is collected, it keeps its "dry" physical state until it is discharged, which can advantageously happen, for example, in a facility devoted to the treatment of dry material only.

[0018] Preferably, the equipment comprises a primary discharge line and a secondary discharge line of the first cyclone filter, wherein said primary discharge line brings the first outlet of the first cyclone filter into communication with the second compartment and wherein the secondary discharge line brings the first outlet into communication with the first compartment, each discharge line comprising at least one shut-off valve.

[0019] Preferably, said equipment comprises a shut-off valve arranged along said first section of said suction line between the first compartment and said inlet of the second cyclone.

[0020] In a possible embodiment, said equipment comprises a by-pass line which, when activated, brings said first compartment into communication with the inlet of the first cyclone filter; said equipment comprising at least one shut-off valve arranged along the by-pass line to allow or prevent a flow of the air flow coming form said first compartment.

[0021] According to a possible embodiment, the equipment comprises a control unit for controlling the vacuum assembly and/or the washing assembly. Preferably, the latter is activated when the equipment collects dry material, whereas it can be deactivated when wet material is collected.

[0022] Preferably, at least one of the cyclone filters comprises a first sensor which detects the filling level thereof. Said first sensor is electrically connected to the control unit which causes the vacuum assembly to stop when the filling level, detected by the first sensor, exceeds a predetermined value.

[0023] According to a possible embodiment, the equipment comprises a discharge unit for collecting and discharging in a controlled way the wet mixture separated in the first cyclone filter. Said discharge unit comprises a settling chamber provided with a first inlet communicating with the cyclone discharge valve, an outlet communicating with a compartment of the tank through a first shut-off connecting valve and a second inlet communicating with an air source through a connecting valve; while said material is collected in said first compartment, the cyclone discharge valve is open, whereas the connecting valve and the shut-off valve are closed. This solution allows the wet mixture to be continuously discharged into the settling chamber, at the same time maintaining a vacuum condition in the suction line.

[0024] Preferably, the air source is pressurized when the outlet of the settling chamber communicates, through a first shut-off valve, with the second compartment (intended to collect wet material), whereas it is at atmospheric pressure when the outlet of the settling chamber is communicating, through a second shut-off valve, with the first compartment subjected to vacuum conditions.

[0025] Preferably, the settling chamber is provided with a second sensor which detects the filling level thereof. Even more preferably, the cyclone discharge valve, said connecting valve, and said at least one shut-off valve are controlled by the control unit so that, when the filling level of the settling chamber exceeds a predetermined value, or after a predetermined time interval, the control unit causes the cyclone discharge valve to close and said connecting valve and said at least one shut-off valve to open. In this way, the suction line maintains its vacuum condition also while discharging the wet mixture from the settling chamber.

[0026] According to a possible embodiment, the washing assembly is configured to disperse water in the air flow coming from the first compartment upstream of or at said inlet of the first cyclone filter.

[0027] According to a possible embodiment thereof, the washing assembly comprises a feeding pump provided with a suction line communicating with a water source, and a delivery line, which supplies a dispersion unit, wherein a shut-off valve is arranged along the delivery line and wherein said washing assembly disperses water in said air flow following the activation of the pump and following the opening of the shut-off valve.

[0028] In an embodiment thereof, the dispersion unit comprises one or more nozzles which nebulize said water in said air flow.

LIST OF THE FIGURES

[0029] Further features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent form the following detailed description of some preferred, although not exclusive, embodiments of the equipment, herein illustrated for indicating and non-limiting purposes with the aid of the attached drawings, wherein:

• Figure 1 is a schematic view of a first possible embodiment of an equipment according to the present invention;
• Figure 2 is a schematic view of a second possible embodiment of an equipment according the present invention;
• Figure 3 is a view of the detail III indicated in Figure 2.

[0030] The same reference numerals and characters in the figures indicate the same elements or components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Referring to the mentioned figures, the present invention relates to a tanker-type equipment for collecting wet material or dry material. For the purposes of the present invention, by the term "dry material" it is meant a material having no or a low percentage of humidity. The term "wet material" means instead a material in liquid, sludge or solid state having a high percentage of humidity.

[0032] The equipment, generally indicated with reference numeral 1, comprises a vehicle 3 and a tank installed on a frame 4 of the vehicle, which is movable on wheels. By the term "mobile vehicle " it is generally meant a motor vehicle, in particular a truck, of the kind conventionally used for producing tankers, i.e. a motor vehicle comprising a front portion with a driver's cab 3A and a rear portion on which the frame 4 rests. Further details of the vehicle 3 are not herein specified, since vehicles suitable for this purpose can be identified by a skilled person with the aid of his common knowledge.

[0033] By the term "tank" it is generally meant a body having any shape (for example, a cylindrical shape with an axis parallel or transverse to the longitudinal axis Y of the vehicle, or a prismatic shape with a square or rectangular cross-section in a section plane parallel or transverse to the longitudinal axis Y of the vehicle), defining an internal volume in which dry or wet material can be collected.

[0034] The tank 2 thus defines in its interior at least a first compartment 11 for collecting (dry or wet) material. The first compartment 11 is closed at least while the material is collected and is provided with at least one opening 11A for conveying the (dry or wet) material inside it. According to a known solution, the material is conveyed into the first compartment 11 by means of a hose connected to said first opening 11A.

[0035] The equipment 1 according to the invention further comprises a vacuum assembly 50 for generating a negative pressure, or better a vacuum, inside the first compartment 11. The equipment 1 further comprises a suction line 15 (in the following also indicated by the term "vacuum line 15"), which brings the vacuum assembly 50 into communication with the first compartment 11. The vacuum assembly 50, further to its activation, draws air from the first compartment 11, generating a vacuum therein. As a consequence, the material to be collected (either dry or, alternatively, wet) is drawn, by means of the hose 111, into the first compartment 11 through the first opening 11A.

[0036] According to the present invention, the equipment 1 comprises at least a first cyclone filter 21 (in the following also indicated by the term "first cyclone 21 ") operatively arranged along the vacuum line 15 to intercept solid particles contained in the air flow coming form the first compartment 11. By the term "cyclone filter", or more simply "cyclone", it is meant to generally indicate a device configured so as to generate a whirling motion in a fluid flow entering into the device itself, in such a way that, due to the centrifugal force characterizing the whirling motion, at least a fraction of the solid and/or liquid particles present in the fluid flow adheres to the inner walls of the device and is thus separated from the gaseous fraction.

[0037] According to the invention, the equipment 1 further comprises an air flow washing assembly 30 configured to disperse water in the air flow itself. Dispersing water in the air flow coming from the first compartment 11 aims at moistening the solid particles contained in the air flow, so that they can adhere to one another to form agglomerates of a larger size, which can be more easily separated from the air. Essentially, when it is activated, the washing assembly 30, generates a fluid mixture containing air, solid particles and water. Such mixture is subjected to a whirling motion within the first cyclone 21, said whirling motion being induced by the configuration of the cyclone itself. Further to such whirling motion, a wet mixture formed by solid particles and water adheres to the inner walls of the first cyclone 21 and is separated from the air. The latter, due to the negative pressure generated by the vacuum assembly 50, is drawn out of the first cyclone 21 deprived of impurities, so as to reach the inlet of the vacuum assembly itself 50.

[0038] Still according to the invention, the washing assembly 30 is activated at least when the equipment 1 operates according to a first operating mode, in which dry material is drawn into the first compartment 11. The washing assembly 30 can stay deactivated when the equipment 1 operates according to a second operating mode, in which wet material is drawn into the same first compartment 11.

[0039] According to the invention, the equipment also comprises at least one second cyclone filter 22 (in the following more simply indicated by the term "second cyclone 22") operatively arranged along the suction line 15 between the first cyclone 21 and the first compartment 11 of the tank 2. The second cyclone 22 is intended to intercept a first fraction of solid particles contained in the air flow coming form the first compartment 11, before the same air flow reaches the first cyclone 21. In other words, in this embodiment, the second cyclone 22 represents a first filtration stage of solid particles, whereas the first cyclone 21 represents a further filtration stage, which eliminates solid particles and water still present in the air flow leaving the second cyclone 22. The two cyclones 21, 22 are thus arranged operatively in series along the suction line 15.

[0040] Still according to the invention, the first cyclone comprises an inlet 21A for the air flow drawn for the first compartment 11 and a first outlet 21B communicating with a collection compartment of said tank 2 through at least one cyclone discharge valve 60. A second outlet 21C of the first cyclone 21 communicates instead with the vacuum assembly 50 for letting the air depurated (by the same first cyclone 21) from solid particles and water introduced by means of the washing assembly 30 and/or present in the air flow drawn form the first compartment 11 out.

[0041] The second cyclone 22 comprises instead an inlet 22A communicating with the first compartment 11 through a section 15A of the suction line 15. The second cyclone 22 further comprises a first outlet 22B for letting the first fraction of solid particles or said wet mixture separated, by means of the same second cyclone 22, from the air flow coming from the first compartment 11 out. A second outlet 22C is instead provided for letting the air flow coming from the first compartment 11 and deprived of the first fraction of solid particles or of said wet mixture exiting through the first outlet 22B out. The first outlet 22B communicates with a compartment, preferably the first compartment 11, of the tank 2, whereas the second outlet 22C communicates with the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21 through another section 15B of the feeding line 15.

[0042] Referring to Figure 1, preferably the first outlet 22B of the second cyclone 22 communicates with said first compartment 11 in a "direct" way, i.e. so that the first fraction of solid particles directly falls into the first compartment 11. In an alternative embodiment, a cyclone discharge valve or a cyclone discharge unit 72, such as that schematically shown in Figure 2 and hereinafter described, can be provided.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the equipment 1 comprises a by-pass line 16, which, when activated, brings the first compartment 11 into communication with the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21 so that the air flow drawn from the first compartment 11 directly reaches the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 22, thus by-passing the second cyclone 22. To this end, along the by-pass line 16 a shut-off valve 166 (in the following also indicated as by-pass valve 166) is arranged to allow or prevent a passage, through the same by-pass line 16, of the air flow coming form the first compartment 11. In particular, when the by-pass valve 166 is closed, the by-pass line is considered to be "deactivated", whereas when the by-pass valve 166 is open the by-pass line 16 is considered to be "activated".

[0044] The presence of two cyclones 21, 22 advantageously allows carrying out two filtration stages of the air flow drawn by vacuum assembly 50. This condition is particularly advantageous when the collection of dry material prevails or is at least comparable with the collection of wet material. However, if the collection of dry material is assumed to be a marginal activity as compared to the collection of wet material, then the dry material could be treated using only the first cyclone 21, in combination with the washing assembly 30 described above. At the same time, the first cyclone 21 alone (i.e. without activating the washing assembly 30) could also be used when the material collected in the first compartment 11 is just wet material. Advantageously, activating/deactivating the by-pass line 16 allows to quickly change configuration according to the needs or according to the use conditions envisaged for the equipment 1.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, shown in the figures, the collection tank 2 comprises a second compartment 12, spatially separated from the first compartment 11, in which the wet mixture (water and solid particles) separated form the air by the first cyclone 21 is discharged. Preferably, although not exclusively, the second compartment 12 is defined in a position adjacent to the first compartment 11, so that the two compartments 11, 12 are separated by a wall 6.

[0046] According to a possible embodiment, the tank 2 comprises in its interior also a third compartment 13, preferably used for receiving water to feed the washing assembly 30. The third compartment 13 is spatially separated from the first compartment 11 and the secondo compartment 12. In the schematic representation of Figures 1 and 2, the third compartment 13 is located at an opposite side of the first compartment 11 relative to the second compartment 12.

[0047] According to an embodiment, the first outlet 21B of the first cyclone 21 communicates, in a direct or indirect way, with the second compartment 12 through a primary discharge line 301 and communicates, in a direct or indirect way, with the first compartment 11 through a secondary discharge line 302. The term "direct" indicates that the outlet of the first cyclone 21 communicates directly with a compartment through a corresponding line 301, 302, whereas the term "indirect" indicates the possibility that a discharge unit 71, for example of the type hereinafter described, is provided between the outlet of the first cyclone 21 and the discharge lines 301, 302.

[0048] Each of these lines is provided with a shut-off valve 301A, 302A, which allows (when open) or prevents (when closed) the discharge through the corresponding line 301, 302 of water or water-particle mixture leaving the first cyclone 21. In this respect, in a first possible operating mode, if the material collected by the equipment 1 is dry, then the material (wet mixture) separated by means of the first cyclone 21 is preferably discharged into the second compartment 12 through the primary discharge line 302 (valve 301A open and valve 302A closed). In this way, the material collected in the first compartment 11 remains dry, without mixing with the wet material leaving the first cyclone 21. On the contrary, if the material drawn into the first compartment 11 is wet, then the first cyclone 21 intercepts the waste portion leaving the first compartment 11. In this case, the mixture (waste) leaving the first cyclone 21 may be discharged, through the secondary discharge line 302 (valve 301A closed, valve 302A open), into the first compartment 11, in which there is already wet material.

[0049] For the purposes of the present invention, the vacuum assembly 50 may have a per se known configuration. In any case, the vacuum assembly shall comprise at least one pump 51 (for example a lobe pump or, alternatively, a blade pump or a liquid-ring pump) comprising an intake section 51A communicating with the vacuum line 15 and an outlet section 51B communicating, through a first silencer 53A, with the outer environment. The pump 51 is preferably configured both for generating a vacuum in the first compartment 11 and for generating a positive pressure in the same first compartment 11 or in other compartments (for example, the second compartment 12). For example, when dry material has been collected in the first compartment 11, the pump 51 can be used for generating a positive pressure in said compartment, in order to push the liquid portion out of the tank 2 through the second opening 11B (after opening of the shut-off valve 102). The pump 51 can be also used for generating a negative pressure (vacuum) in other compartments of the tank 2 beside the first compartment 11, as already mentioned above.

[0050] To this end, for reversing the function of the pump 51, a valve 57 is provided, which in practice swaps the intake and the outlet of the pump 51 between each other. Preferably, the pump 51 is provided with a cooling-air injection line 59 communicating with the outer environment through a second silencer 53B. A metal filter 58 is preferably arranged at the inlet of the vacuum assembly 50 to intercept the air flow before it reaches the valve 57 or in any case the intake section 51A of the pump 51.

[0051] In general, the equipment 1 comprises a control unit 200 which controls the vacuum assembly 50 and/or activates and deactivates the washing assembly 30. Preferably, the control unit 200 is configured to control also the valves of the equipment (indicated in detail hereinafter) and more generally the components of the equipment which can be controlled in an automated way.

[0052] For the purposes of the present invention, the tank 2 can have a configuration per se know, defined by an internally hollow body 2A, for example having a cylindrical form, closed at its ends by a first end wall 2B and a second end wall 2C. Preferably, the first end wall 2B is the one located farther away from the cab 3A of the vehicle 3 and is movable between an opening position and a closing position. The first compartment 11 is defined within the tank 2 so as to be at least partially delimited by said first end wall 2B, so that, when the latter is in the opening position, the material collected in the first compartment 11 can be discharged therefrom.

[0053] Preferably, the first opening 11A of the first compartment 11 is defined by the first end wall 2B.

[0054] In a possible embodiment, a second opening 11B of the first compartment 11 is provided for discharging the liquid portion form the first compartment 11. As already mentioned above, a hose 111 is preferably connected to the first opening 11A for conveying more easily material into the first compartment 1. Fittings (for example an elephant trunk), not shown in the figures, can be arranged on the tank 2, or on the frame 4 supporting the tank 2, for facilitating the displacement and/or orientation of the hose 111. Similarly, a hose 112 can be connected also to the second opening 11B for allowing a controlled discharge of the liquid portion of the material present in the first container 11. In this respect, the second opening 11B is defined in a proximal position relative to the bottom of the first compartment 11, whereas the first opening 11A can be defined in a distal position relative to the bottom, even in a position diametrically opposed to the second opening 11B.

[0055] According to a possible embodiment, the first compartment 11 is provided with a first shut-off valve 101 and a second shut-off valve 102 for opening and closing said first opening 11A and said second opening 11B. During the collection process, i.e. when the vacuum assembly 50 is activated, the first shut-off valve 101 is open, whereas the second shut-off valve 102 is closed. During the emptying process of the first compartment 11, instead, if the collected material is wet (i.e. contains water), the second shut-off valve 102 can be open to allow the liquid (or sludge) portion to be discharged, whereas the first shut-off valve 101 can be either closed or open.

[0056] In a possible embodiment, interception/filtration devices 115 are arranged inside the first compartment 11 for trapping and/or promoting the settling of solid particles (dust) within the compartment itself. Such interception/filtration means can be selected, for example, from the group consisting of a labyrinth filter, a chain filter, a baffle filter, or any combination thereof. In a possible embodiment, the collection tank 2 comprises a first trap 66, provided at the first compartment 11, through which the vacuum line 15 comes out. Still at the first compartment 11 also a second trap 67 is preferably provided, through which the by-pass line 16 comes out. Preferably, a sensor S11 is arranged inside the first compartment 11 for detecting the level of the material collected inside the compartment itself. In particular, the first sensor S11 is connected to the control unit 200 which controls the operation of the vacuum assembly 50. The control unit 200 causes the vacuum assembly 50 to stop (i.e. the drawing of material to be stopped) when the level of the material, detected form the first sensor S11, exceeds a predetermined value.

[0057] Preferably, the first compartment 11 can be provided with at least one closing device 150 in the by-pass line 16 for closing the inlet section thereof when the material collected in the first compartment 11 reach a maximum predetermined level. Such closing device 150, substantially associated with the second trap 67, can be as well controlled based on the signal detected by sensor S11. For safety reason, however, the closing device 150 is preferably configured so as to close the suction line 15 independently of the action, and thus of the proper operation, of the first sensor S11.

[0058] In this respect, since the by-pass line 16 is preferably activated when the collected material is wet, the closing device 150 associated with the second trap 67 may comprise a floating ball which closes the inlet section of the by-pass line 16 when the first compartment 11 is full. On the contrary, the trap 66 does not actually require a closing device, but can be provided with a filtration device 155 (preferably a mechanical filtration device of the labyrinth, chain, baffle type or combinations thereof). In fact, drawing through the first trap 66 mainly occurs when the collected material is dry, in which case the by-pass line 16 is closed. In any case, the possibility of providing also the first trap 66 with a closing device of the type describe above or functionally equivalent thereto is not excluded.

[0059] According to an embodiment, a shut-off valve 8 is arranged along the suction line 15, for example in a position close to the trap 66, to bring into communication the first compartment 11 with the second cyclone 22. In particular, said shut-off valve 8 is open at least when the collection of dry material prevails, so as to allow double filtration of the air flow drawn from the first compartment 11.

[0060] In any case, the operating condition of the shut-off valve 8 is operatively related to that of the by-pass valve 166 located along the by-pass line 16. In particular, the shut-off valve 8 is closed when the by-pass valve 166 is open for by-passing the second cyclone 22 and allowing a direct communication between the first compartment 11 and the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21. The same shut-off valve 8 is instead open when the by-pass line 16 is deactivated, i.e. when the by-pass valve 166 is closed (double filtration of the flow drawn from the first compartment 11).

[0061] According to a possible embodiment, the washing assembly 30 is configured so that the dispersion of water into the air flow drawn from the first compartment 11 occurs upstream of the inlet (as shown in the figures) or at the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21. In an alternative embodiment the washing assembly 30 is configured so that said dispersion occurs also inside the cyclone 21, i.e. downstream of said inlet 21A.

[0062] In a possible, and thus not exclusive, embodiment thereof, the washing assembly 30 comprises a pump PI, whose suction line 32 communicates with a water source, such as for example the third compartment 13 defined above. The delivery line 33 of the pump communicates with a dispersion unit 30B, which intercepts the air flow drawn from the first compartment 11. A shut-off valve 31 (for example, an electronically controlled pneumatic valve) is arranged along said delivery line 33, for allowing or preventing the feeding of water to of the dispersion unit 30B. The dispersion of water occurs further to the activation of the pump P1 and the opening of the shut-off valve 31. Both are preferably activated by the control unit 200.

[0063] In a possible embodiment thereof, the dispersion unit 30B comprises one or more water-nebulizing nozzles for generating a cloud of water droplets, which mix with the air flow advantageously moistening the solid particles contained in the air itself. The dispersion unit 30B is arranged so that such nebulization occurs at the inlet 21A of said cyclone 21. However, the dispersion unit 30B could be arranged so as to nebulize water at a location of the suction line 15 upstream of the inlet 21A. As already mentioned, also the possibility of nebulizing water substantially inside the first cyclone 21, preferably close to the inlet 21A, falls in any case with the scope of the present invention.

[0064] As mentioned above, in a preferred embodiment, the water source is defined by a third compartment 13 of the tank 2, from which the pump P1 draws water.

[0065] In an alternative embodiment, the same second compartment 12 could serve as a source for the intake of the pump P1. In fact, further to the settling in the second compartment 12, a solid portion lying on the bottom and a liquid portion above the solid portion are formed, and the pump P1 could draw form said liquid portion. According to a further embodiment, the pump P1 could also be connected to a water source external to the equipment (for example a fixed water tap) or draw water from a tank installed on the vehicle 3, but physically separated from the tank 2.

[0066] As better shown in figure 3, according to an embodiment the first cyclone filter 21 comprises a hollow body comprising at least a cylindrical portion 211, closed at the top, and a conical portion 212 which extends below the cylindrical portion, referring to a vertical orientation. The conical portion 212 thus tapers downwardly so as to promote a gravity-driven motion of the wet mixture, formed by solid particles and water.

[0067] Referring to the first cyclone filter 21, as mentioned above, it comprises an inlet 21A for the air flow coming, directly or indirectly, from the first compartment 11 through a first section 15A of the suction line 15. By the term directly it is meant a condition in which the filtration carried out in the first cyclone 21 is substantially the first filtration which the air flow drawn form the first compartment 11 undergoes (by-pass line 16 activated, by-pass valve 166 open, shut-off valve 8 closed). The term "indirectly" indicates a condition in which the air flow coming from the first compartment 11 has already been subjected to at least one filtration, carried out by the second cyclone 22, before reaching said inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21. In this respect, the equipment 1 could comprise further filtration devices configured to carry out a filtration either "in series" or "in parallel" with the filtration carried out by the second cyclone 22.

[0068] The inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21 is arranged so as to let the air flow in into the hollow body according to a direction substantially tangential to the cylindrical portion 111 (or the conical portion 112, depending on the height). This triggers the whirling motion of the air flow inside the hollow body itself.

[0069] As mentioned above, the first cyclone 21 also comprises a first outlet 21B for said wet mixture, which is separated from the air due to said whirling motion. The first outlet 21B is arranged substantially close to the end section of the conical portion 112 of the first cyclone 21. The wet mixture moves downwards due to gravity towards the first outlet 21B, through which it may reach either the second compartment 12 or the first compartment 11, through the corresponding discharge lines 301, 302, as already mentioned above.

[0070] In this respect, as mentioned above, the first cyclone 21 comprises a cyclone discharge valve 60 (preferably an electrically actuated pneumatic valve) which intercepts the wet mixture coming out from the first outlet 21B. While material is drawn in, the cyclone discharge valve 60 remains closed so as to the keep vacuum conditions in the suction line 15. The cyclone discharge valve 60 is preferably controlled by the control unit 200.

[0071] The first cyclone 21 also comprises a second outlet 21C, from which the air deprived of the wet mixture, which is conveyed towards the first outlet 21A, comes out. The second outlet 21C communicates with the vacuum assembly 50 by means of a second section 15B of the suction line 15, defined between the same vacuum assembly 50 and the first cyclone21.

[0072] Preferably, the first cyclone 21 comprises a first sensor S21 for detecting the clogging filling condition of the hollow body 211, particularly the conical portion thereof, where the wet mixture mentioned above can build up. Preferably, the first sensor S21 is connected to the control unit 200 which controls the operation of the vacuum assembly 50. In a possible operating mode, the control unit 200 sends a control signal to the vacuum assembly 50 to stop the operation thereof if the level detected by the first sensor S21 exceeds a predetermined threshold. This solution is applied in an operating mode, not shown in the figures, in which the cyclone discharge valve 60 (i.e. the first outlet 21B of the first cyclone 21) directly communicates with the second compartment 12 through the first discharge line 301 or with the first compartment 11 through the second discharge line 302. In this case, after, or at the same time with, the stopping of the vacuum assembly 50, the control unit 200 makes the cyclone discharge valve 60 to open, for allowing the wet mixture to be discharged, into the second compartment 12 or, alternatively, into the first compartment 11, based on the operating mode of the equipment 1 (collection of either dry or wet material).

[0073] According to an embodiment, shown in figures 2 and 3, the equipment 1 comprises a discharge unit 71 for collecting and discharging in a controlled way the wet mixture, which comes out from the first cyclone 21, into the second compartment 12. The discharge unit 71 comprises a settling chamber 41 communicating, through a first inlet 41A, with the above-mentioned cyclone discharge valve 60, which in this embodiment represents a connecting valve between the first cyclone 21 and the same settling chamber 41. In this respect, the settling chamber 41 is preferably arranged below the first cyclone 21, in particular below the cyclone discharge valve 60, for allowing the wet mixture to fall by gravity into the chamber itself.

[0074] Referring to the detail view of Figure 3, the settling chamber 41 (in the following also indicated as "chamber 41") comprises at least one outlet 41B communicating with a compartment (11 or 12) of the tank 2 through a corresponding discharge line 301, 302 provided with the corresponding valve 301A, 302A. The chamber 41 comprises a second inlet 41C communicating with an air (or other gas) source 7 through a feeding line along which a connecting valve 82 is arranged. Preferably, the valves (81, 301A, 302A) just mentioned are as well pneumatic valves electrically actuated by the control unit 200.

[0075] The chamber 41 further comprises a sensor S41 which detects the filling condition thereof and is electrically connected with the control unit 200. While collecting material (either dry or wet), the cyclone discharge valve 60 is usually open, while the other valves 81, 301A, 302A, are closed so as to allow the chamber 41 to be filled with the wet mixture coming form the first cyclone 21. The chamber 41 and the connections of the same with the three valves 60, 81, 301A, 302A mentioned above are configured so as to keep the vacuum in the first cyclone 21 and thus in the suction line 15.

[0076] In a first operating mode, in which the chamber 41 communicates, through the primary discharge line 301, with the second compartment 12 (secondary line 302 closed), the second inlet 41C then communicates with a pressurized air source 7. In a second operating mode, in which the chamber 41 communicates, through the secondary line 302 (primary line 301 closed), with the first compartment 11, the air source can then be at atmospheric pressure. For the purposes of the present invention, by the term "pressurized air source " it is meant a source, tank or pressure in which air is kept at a pressure above the atmospheric pressure (some bars).

[0077] The emptying of the first settling chamber 41 requires the cyclone discharge valve 60 to be closed and the discharge valve 81 and the valve 301A or 302A of the respective discharge line 301, 302 to be opened. In the case where the chamber 41 communicates with the second compartment 12 through the second inlet 41C, the pressurized air enters into the settling chamber 41, promoting the outflow of the wet mixture through the outlet 71B, i.e. the discharge, preferably towards the second compartment 12. When instead the chamber 41 communicates with the first compartment 11, due to the vacuum inside the first compartment 11, i.e. due to the negative pressure relative to the atmospheric pressure, the wet mixture is drawn into the first compartment 11.

[0078] In any case, closing the cyclone discharge valve 60 allows vacuum to be maintained in the suction line 15. Thus, the collection of material in the first compartment 11 is never stopped during the emptying process of the settling chamber 41.

[0079] Advantageously, the emptying process can be controlled automatically by the control unit 200. According to an embodiment, such process is triggered by the filling level of the chamber 41, detected by means of the sensor S41 associated thereto. The control unit 200 makes then the cyclone discharge valve 60 to close and at the same time the other two valves 81, 301A or 302A to open when the filling level, detected by sensor S41, exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0080] In an alternative embodiment, the emptying of the settling chamber 41 is time-controlled, i.e. controlled by the control unit 200 so as to occur at predetermined time intervals. Preferably, for safety reasons, the sensor S41 is in any case provided in the chamber 41 also when the control unit 200 operates according to this mode (time-controlled emptying). In this way, even if the chamber 24 becomes full faster than expected, the control unit 200 can actuate the valves 60, 81, 301A or 302A earlier, i.e. it can cause an earlier emptying.

[0081] As it can be seen in Figure 3, the second cyclone 22 can have substantially the same configuration as that of the first cyclone 21 describe above. Hence, also the second cyclone 22 has a hollow body comprising a cylindrical upper portion 211B and a conical lower portion 212B extending therefrom, still referring to a vertical orientation. In the hollow body an inlet 22A is formed which allows the air flow to enter into the cyclone, preferably into the cylindrical portion of the hollow body, tangentially, so as generate a whirling motion which causes the separation of at least a fraction of solid particles form the air flow.

[0082] The second cyclone 22, similarly to the first cyclone 21, comprises a first outlet 22B though which the solid particles separated from the air flow can leave the hollow body. In this case, however, the first outlet 22B communicates with the first compartment 11 of the tank, so as to bring the solid particles back into the same compartment from which they come. The second cyclone 22 comprises a second outlet 22C which communicates with the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21 through an intermediate section 15C of the suction line 15.

[0083] The second cyclone 22 too comprises a cyclone discharge valve 60B which intercepts the solid particles coming out for the first outlet 22B and is closed while material is collected, so as to keep vacuum in the suction line 15. Furthermore, the second cyclone 22 too is provided with a sensor S22 for monitoring the filling level of the hollow body, particularly of the conical portion thereof.

[0084] According to a possible embodiment, also the second cyclone 22 is provided with a discharge unit 72 (in the following also indicated as second discharge unit) for discharging in a controlled way the material trapped in the second cyclone 22 due to the whirling motion. As shown, the discharge unit 72 can be structurally and functionally fully similar to the above-described discharge unit 71 of the first cyclone 21. Thus, also this second discharge unit 71 is provided with a settling chamber 42 (in the following indicated also by the term second chamber 42), having a first inlet 41A communicating with the first outlet 22B of the second cyclone 22 through the corresponding shut-off valve 60B. The second chamber 42 comprises an outlet 42B communicating with the first compartment 11 of the tank 2 through a corresponding shut-off valve 91, and a second inlet 42C communicating with a pressurized air (or other gas) source 77.

[0085] The second chamber 42 too is preferably provided with a sensor S42 for detecting the level of the solid particles, i.e. the filling level of the chamber itself.

[0086] As for the first cyclone 21, the valves 91, 92 and the cyclone discharge valve 60B can likewise be electrically actuated pneumatic valves, so as to be controllable by the control unit 200. The emptying process of the settling chamber 42 can be carried out in the same way as described above with reference to the first settling chamber 41 of the first cyclone 21. In practice, also the second chamber 42 is emptied by closing the corresponding cyclone discharge valve 60B an simultaneously opening the two valves 91, 92 associated with the same second chamber 42.

[0087] Thus, also the second chamber 42 can be emptied in an automated way by the control unit 200, when level of the solid particles (detected by the second sensor S42) exceeds a predetermined vale or at predetermined time intervals. Reference is thus made to what has been previously described about the emptying of the first chamber 41 of the first cyclone 21. Such description, mutatis mutandis, applies also to the second chamber 42.

[0088] However, the possibility for the second cyclone 22 to be configured and/or oriented differently form the first cyclone 22 falls also within the scope of the present invention. For example, the second cyclone 22 could be oriented substantially horizontally, whereas the first cyclone 21 could be arranged vertically.

[0089] Referring to the embodiment schematically shown in figure 2, the operation of the equipment 1 is hereinafter described with reference to three possible operating modes already partially mentioned above.

First operating mode - collection of dry material

[0090] For collecting dry material in the first compartment 11, beside activating the vacuum assembly 50, it is required to open the first shut-off valve 101, to close the second shut-off valve 102, to open the shut-off valve 8 and the cyclone discharge valves 60, 60B, and to close the other valves 81, 301A-302A, 91, 92 of the corresponding settling chambers 41, 42. Moreover, the by-pass valve 166 is closed and thus the by-pass line 16 is deactivated.

[0091] This operating mode also provides for the activation of the washing assembly 30 and thus for the activation of the pump P1 and the opening of the shut-off valve 31 arranged along the delivery line of the same pump.

[0092] The vacuum assembly 50 generates a negative pressure in the first compartment 11 of the tank 2, thus achieving a certain vacuum degree. Since the first shut-off valve 101 is open, this vacuum condition also affects the hose 111 connected to he first opening 11A. Through such hose the dry material is thus drawn into the first compartment 11 of the tank 2. The volume of the first compartment 11 (of the order of some cubic meters) causes a sudden slowing down of the air drawn in together with the dry material. Most of such material settles in the first compartment 11. However, even when the above-mentioned particle interception/filtration means (arranged in the first compartment 11) and/or the filtration device 155 associated with the first trap 66 are used, the lighter particles (in form of dust) remain in the air flow which is drawn into the vacuum line 15.

[0093] While flowing therethrough, the air flow is initially filtered in the second cyclone 22, in which a "dry" (i.e. without water) separation of a fraction of solid particles takes place. In said second cyclone 22, due to the frustoconical configuration of the hollow body and of the tangential inlet, the air flow is subjected to a whirling motion, which causes the heavier solid particles to become trapped and to precipitate, through the first outlet 22B, into the corresponding settling chamber 42 below the second cyclone 22. For achieving this effect and maintaining the vacuum condition in the suction line 15 the cyclone discharge valve 60B is open, whereas the two valves 91, 92 are closed. The two sensors S22, S42, respectively arranged on the body of and on the second chamber 42, constantly monitor the respective filling levels.

[0094] In this respect, when the filling level of the second chamber 42 exceeds a predetermined value, the control unit 200 activates the emptying process, making the cyclone discharge valve 60B to close and the other two valves 91, 92 to open. The opening of the first shut-off valve 91 brings the second chamber 42 into communication with the first compartment 11, whereas the opening of the second shut-off valve 92 bring the chamber 2 into communication with the air source. In this respect, the emptying of the second chamber 42 does not need a pressurized air source, thanks to the vacuum condition in the first compartment 11. In any case, following to the opening of the two valves 91, 92, the dry material is returned to the first compartment 11.

[0095] At the end of the emptying process, about a few seconds, the control unit 200 sends a control signal to the valves (60B, 91, 92) involved in the emptying of the second chamber 42, which brings them back to their initial condition (valve 60B open, valves 91, 92 closed), so that the first outlet 22B of the second cyclone 22 communicates again with the second chamber 42.

[0096] The dry material separated by the second cyclone 22 is thus brought back into the tank 2, in particular into the first compartment 11, without coming in contact with water or another liquid, i.e. without changing its physical state.

[0097] After the first filtration stage carried out by the second cyclone 22, the air flow, most likely containing air and very light solid particles (dust), comes out from the second outlet 22B and reaches, through the intermediate section 15C of the suction line 15, the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21. In particular, by means of the washing assembly 30 water is dispersed into the air flow. In particular, such dispersion is carried out by the dispersion unit 30B, which nebulizes water into the air flow. Such nebulization can take place at the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21, upstream of the same inlet 21A or alternatively inside the first cyclone 21. By dispersing/nebulizing water, the solid particles contained in the air flow are moistened and adhere to one other, forming agglomerates having larger dimensions, which can more easily be separated in the first cyclone 21.

[0098] In this respect, in a preferred operating mode, the air flow with solid particles and water enters tangentially into the hollow body through the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21 and is immediately nebulized with water, so that the fluid formed by air-water and particles is dragged into whirling motion. Further to this motion, a wet mixture formed by water and solid particles precipitates, through the first outlet 21B, into the settling chamber 41 below the first cyclone 21. This precipitation occurs through the cyclone discharge valve 60 (in open position) arranged between the first cyclone 21 and the first settling chamber 41 of the discharge unit 71.

[0099] Sensors S21 and S41, connected to the control unit 200, monitor the filling condition respectively of the first cyclone 21 and of the first settling chamber 41. When sensor S41 associated with the settling chamber 41 detects a predetermined filling level, the control unit 200 makes the cyclone discharge valve 60 to close, the connecting valve 81 to open and the shut-off valve 301A of the primary discharge line 301 (located between the chamber 41 and the second compartment 12) to open. The opening of the connecting valve 81 allows the chamber 41 to communicate with the pressurized air source. In such conditions, the wet mixture is pushed by the pressurized air towards the second compartment 12 intended indeed for collecting the wet material.

[0100] When the emptying of the chamber 41 is terminated, i.e. after a few seconds, the control unit 200 sends a control signal to the valves 60, 81, 301A so as to bring the discharge unit 71 back to the initial condition (vale 60 open, valves 81 and 301A closed).

[0101] Opening of the cyclone discharge valve 60 and closing of valves 81, 301A can occur either simultaneously or in sequence. In any case, closing the cyclone discharge valve 60 allows the settling chamber 41 to be isolated from the vacuum line 15. Thus, the emptying of the settling chamber 41 does not stop the collection of material into the first compartment 11.

[0102] The material collection process continues until the dry material collected into the first compartment 11 of the suction line 15 reaches a predetermined level, detected by sensor S11 arranged inside the compartment itself. In particular, when this condition is reached, the control unit 200 makes the vacuum assembly 50 to stop. Subsequently or simultaneously, also the first shut-off valve 101 and the shut-off valve 8 are closed so as to bring the equipment substantially in a rest condition.

[0103] Since dry material is involved, the emptying process of the first compartment 11 necessarily requires the opening of the mobile portion defined at the end wall 2C of the tank 2, at least partially delimiting the same first compartment 11.

Second operating mode - collection of wet material with double filtration

[0104] For collecting wet material into the first compartment 11, beside activating the vacuum assembly 50, it is required to open the first shut-off valve 101, to close the second shut-off valve 102, to open the shut-off valve 8 and the cyclone discharge valves 60, 60B and to close the other connecting valves 81, 82, 91, 92 of the corresponding settling chambers 41, 42. In this operating mode, it is not necessary (although it is still possible) to activate the washing assembly 30, as the material already contains water or in any case a high percentage of humidity. Moreover, in this operating mode the by-pass line 16 remains deactivated (shut-off valve 166 closed).

[0105] Due to the vacuum generated by the vacuum assembly 50, the wet material is drawn into the first compartment 11. In this case, the fluid drawn into the suction line comprises air, water and solid particles. The solid particles are thus already mixed with water. This fluid flows through the first section 15A of the vacuum line 15 until it enters into the second cyclone 22 through the corresponding inlet 22A. In this case, further to the whirling motion caused by the configuration of the second cyclone 22, a wet mixture, comprising a first fraction of water and heavier solid particles, comes out from the first outlet 22B and precipitates, through the cyclone discharge valve 60B (in open condition), into the second chamber 42 of the discharge unit 72.

[0106] The fluid flow, deprived of said wet mixture, comes out through the second outlet 22C and reaches, through an intermediate section 15C of the suction line 15, the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21. Due to the whirling motion within the first cyclone 21, the remaining fraction of water and solid particles forms a wet mixture, which precipitates into the first chamber 41 through the corresponding first outlet 21B (cyclone discharge valve 60 open). Thus, only air (without water and solid particles) comes out from the second outlet 21C of the first cyclone 21 and reaches the vacuum assembly 50 through an end section 15B of the suction line 15.

[0107] In the second operating mode, the emptying of the settling chambers 41, 42 of the discharge units 71, 72 of the two cyclones 21, 22 is carried out substantially in the same way as described above in connection with the first operating mode. Thus, reference is made to the above description in this regard.

Third operating mode - collection of wet material with single filtration

[0108] The collection of wet material into the first compartment 11, beside the activation of the vacuum assembly 50, requires the first shut-off valve 101 to be opened, the second shut-off valve 102 to be closed, the cyclone discharge valves 60, 60B to be closed, the further connecting valves 81, 301A, 302A, 91, 92 of the corresponding settling chambers 41, 42 to be closed, the shut-off valve 8 to be closed, and the by-pass valve 166 to be opened (by-pass line 16 activated). The activation of the washing assembly 30 is, also in this case, optional, as the material collected in the first compartment 11 already contains water or, in any case, a high percentage of humidity.

[0109] Due to the vacuum generated by the vacuum assembly 50, the wet material is drawn into the first compartment 11. In this case, the fluid drawn through the vacuum assembly 50 comprises air, water and solid particles. This fluid flows through the by-pass line 16 and reaches the inlet 21A of the first cyclone 21. Due to the whirling motion within the first cyclone 21, the fraction of water and solid particles forms a wet mixture, which precipitates into the first chamber 41 through the corresponding first outlet 21B (cyclone discharge valve 60 open). Thus, only air (without water and solid particles) comes out from the second outlet 21C of the first cyclone 21 and reaches the vacuum assembly 50 through an end section 15B of the suction line 15.

[0110] The emptying of the settling chamber 41 of the discharge unit 71 of the first cyclone 21 is carried out substantially in the same way as described above in connection with the first operating mode. Thus, reference is made to the above description in this regard.

[0111] It is also noted that in the first operating mode the second cyclone 22 carries out a dry filtration stage, i.e. a filtration stage without humidity in the fluid to be filtered, whereas in the second operating mode it carries out a water filtration, i.e. a filtration with water in the fluid to be filtered. In the third operating mode the second cyclone 22 do not carry out any filtration. Independently of the operating mode, the first cyclone 21 always carries out a water filtration. In the second and third operating mode the water filtration can be more or less intense, depending on whether the washing assembly 30 is activated or not.

[0112] The technical solutions described above allow the outlined tasks and objects to be accomplished. In particular, the use of a washing assembly allows always at least one water filtration stage to be carried out in a cyclone filter. It is thus achieved a highly efficient filtration in any operating mode of the equipment.

Claims

1. Tanker-type equipment (1) for collecting wet material or dry material, wherein said equipment (1) comprises:

- a mobile vehicle (3) comprising a frame (4) on which a collection tank (2) is installed, said collection tank (2) comprising at least a first compartment (11) for collecting said dry material or said wet material;

- a vacuum assembly (50) for generating a vacuum at least inside said first compartment (11);

- a suction line (15) through which said first compartment (11) communicates with said vacuum assembly (50) so that, following the activation of said vacuum assembly (50), an air flow coming from said first compartment (11) and directed to said vacuum assembly (50) is drawn through said suction line (15)

characterized in that said equipment (1) comprises:

- a washing assembly (30) for dispersing water in said air flow coming from said first compartment (11) so as to moisten any solid particles contained in said air flow, said washing assembly (30) being activated at least during the collection of dry material;

- a first cyclone filter (21) arranged along said suction line (15) to intercept said solid particles moistened by said water, wherein said first cyclone filter (21) induces said air flow and said water dispersed therein in a whirling motion following which a wet mixture, formed by said water and said solid particles, is separated from said air flow,

- a second cyclone filter (22) operatively arranged along said suction line (15) between said first cyclone (21) and said first compartment (11) to intercept a first fraction of solid particles contained in said air flow coming from said first compartment (11) when said collected material is dry and to intercept a wet mixture formed by water and solid particles contained in said air flow when said collected material is wet.

wherein said second cyclone filter (22) comprises an inlet (22A) communicating with said first compartment (11) through a first section (15A) of said suction line (15), a first outlet (22B) to let said first fraction of solid particles or said wet mixture separated from said air flow out, a second outlet (22C) to let said air flow deprived of said first fraction of solid particles or of said wet mixture out, wherein said first outlet (22B) communicates with a compartment (11) of said tank (2), and wherein
wherein said first cyclone filter (21) comprises an inlet (21A) for said air flow communicating with said second outlet (22C) of said second cyclone filter (22), a first outlet (21B) communicating with a compartment (11,12) of said tank (2) through a cyclone discharge valve (60) and a second outlet (21C) communicating with said vacuum assembly (50).

2. Equipment (1) according to claim 1, wherein said tank (2) defines a second compartment (12), different from said first compartment (11), in which only wet material is collected, wherein said first outlet (21B) of said first cyclone (21) communicates with said second compartment (12) and wherein said first outlet (22B) of said second cyclone (22) communicates with said first compartment (11).

3. Equipment (1) according to claim 2, wherein said equipment (1) comprises a primary discharge line (301) and a secondary discharge line (302) of said first cyclone filter (21), wherein said primary discharge line (301) brings said first outlet (21C) of said first cyclone filter (21) into communication with said second compartment (12) and wherein said secondary discharge line (302) brings said first outlet (21C) into communication with said first compartment (301), each discharge line (301, 302) comprising at least one shut-off valve (301A, 302A).

4. Equipment (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said equipment (1) comprises a shut-off valve (88) arranged along said first section (15A) of said suction line (15) between said first compartment (11) and said inlet (22A) of said second cyclone (22).

5. Equipment (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said equipment (1) comprises a by-pass line (16) which, when activated, brings said first compartment (11) into communication with said inlet (21A) of said first cyclone filter (21), said equipment (1) comprising at least one shut-off valve (166) arranged along said by-pass line (16) to allow or prevent a flow of said air flow coming form said first compartment (11).

6. Equipment according to claim 5, wherein said tank (2) comprises a first trap (66) from which the vacuum line (15) comes out and a second trap (67) from which said by-pass line (16) comes out, wherein said equipment comprises at least one closing device (150), operatively associated with said second trap (67) to close the inlet section of said by-pass line (16) when the material collected in said first compartment (11) reaches a predetermined maximum level.

7. Equipment (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said equipment (1) comprises a control unit (200) for controlling said vacuum assembly (50) and/or said washing assembly (30).

8. Equipment (1) according to claim 7, wherein at least one of said cyclone filters (21, 22) comprises a first sensor (S21, S22) for detecting the filling level thereof, said first sensor (S21, S22) being electrically connected to said control unit (200), which causes said vacuum assembly (50) to stop when the filling level detected by said first sensor (S21, S22) exceeds a predetermined value.

9. Equipment (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said equipment (1) comprises a discharge unit (71) for collecting and discharging in a controlled way said wet mixture coming out from said first cyclone (21), wherein said discharge unit (71) comprises a settling chamber (41) provided with a first inlet (41A) communicating with said cyclone discharge valve (60), an outlet (41B) communicating with a compartment (11, 12) of said tank (2) through a first shut-off valve (301A, 301B) and a second inlet (41C) communicating with an air source (7) through a connecting valve (82), wherein while collecting said material in said first compartment (11) said cyclone discharge valve (60) is open, said connecting valve (82) is closed, and said shut-off valve (81, 82) is closed.

10. Equipment (1) according to claim 9, wherein said air source (7) is pressurized if said one outlet (41B) communicates, through a first shut-off valve (301A) with said second compartment (12), whereas it is at atmospheric pressure if said one outlet (41B) is communicating, through said second shut-off valve (302A), with said first compartment (11).

11. Equipment (1) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein said settling chamber (41) is provided with a sensor (S41) which detects the filling level thereof.

12. Equipment (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein said cyclone discharge valve (60), said connecting valve (81), and said at least one shut-off valve (301A, 302A) are controlled by said control unit (200), and wherein, when the filling level of said settling chamber (41) exceeds a predetermined value or after a predetermined time interval, said control unit (200) causes said discharge valve (60) to close, said connecting valve (81) to open, and said at least one shut-off valve (301A, 302A) to open.

13. Equipment (1) according to any one of the claims from 1 to 12, wherein said washing assembly (30) is configured to disperse water in said air flow coming from said first compartment (11) upstream of said inlet (21A) of said first cyclone filter (21), or at said inlet (21A) of said first cyclone filter (21) or inside said cyclone filter (21).

14. Equipment (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said washing assembly (30) comprises a pump (PI) provided with a suction line (33) communicating with a water source (13), and a delivery line (33) which supplies a dispersion unit (30B), wherein a shut-off valve (31) is arranged along the delivery line (33), wherein said washing assembly (30) disperses water in said air flow following the activation of said pump (PI) and the opening of said shut-off valve (31).

15. Equipment (1) according to claim 14, wherein said dispersion unit (30B) comprises one or more nozzles which nebulize said water in said air flow.

Drawing