EP2102085B1 - Conveying apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A conveying apparatus with conveying compartments (T) which can be displaced one behind the other along a conveying path has supporting surfaces (S) which are arranged in the conveying compartments and on which flat articles (G), in particular printed products, can be conveyed in a state in which they rest thereon. The supporting surfaces (S) are each formed by a flexible supporting belt (5). In order to set different angles between the supporting surface (S) and the conveying path (1), each conveying compartment (2) has a setting element (3), which acts on the supporting belt (5) in a region between two belt ends which are fastened at two fastening locations (10, 11) which are spaced apart from one another parallel to the conveying path (1). The setting element (3) is further equipped in order to press articles (G) against the supporting surface (S) in an adjacent conveying compartment (2'), as a result of which a conveying action in which the supporting surface (S) is at a steep angle or is arranged over the articles (G) is possible. The conveying apparatus is suitable, in particular for collating flat articles (G) and for selectively transferring the collated articles to a further conveying apparatus.

Description

The invention is in the field of conveyor technology and relates to a conveying device according to the preamble of the independent claim. The conveying device is used for conveying flat objects in conveying compartments, in which a flat object or a plurality of flat objects stacked on top of each other are supported lying on a support surface.

Conveying methods in which flat objects or stacks of such objects are conveyed lying on conveyor surfaces in support compartments, for example, in the field of further processing of printed products for use, in particular for the creation of printed product groups by collating. In this case, the conveyor compartments are conveyed along a series of feed points and at each feed point, a printed product is fed to substantially each conveyor compartment and deposited on the support surface of the conveyor compartment or on already resting on this support surface or stacked printed products, so that downstream of the last feed point in all conveyor compartments essentially the same stacks of printed products are conveyed. These stacks are then usually transferred to a subsequent further conveyor or to a processing device.

The document WO-A-2007/085101 discloses a conveyor device with which the conveying method briefly described above can be carried out. This conveyor has conveyor compartments, which are coupled on a self-contained path, for example, to a circulating along the web conveying member, and which are pivotable about an axis oriented transversely to the conveyor track, such that, for example, the spatial orientation of the support surfaces are maintained with changing trajectory or that in different areas of the orbit the bearing surfaces can have different angles of inclination relative to a horizontal.

The object of the invention is now to provide a further conveyor device with conveyor compartments, wherein the conveyor compartments have support surfaces on which flat objects or stacks of flat objects can be conveyed. In this case, an angle of inclination of the support surfaces should be controlled adjustable relative to the conveyor track and it should possibly also be possible to hold the objects on the support surfaces during the promotion, so that a promotion is possible with alignments of the support surfaces, where the gravity of the objects is not enough to keep them on the support surfaces. Nevertheless, the device should be easy to implement and easy to control.

This object is achieved by the conveying device, as defined in the independent claim. The dependent claims define preferred embodiments of the conveyor device according to the invention.

The conveying device according to the invention has a plurality of conveyor compartments which can be moved along a conveyor track that is advantageously closed in itself. Each conveyor compartment has a support surface forming the support belt and an adjustment, by means of which the support belt is displaceable relative to the conveyor track and thus an angle between the conveyor track and the support surface is adjustable. The support band is longitudinally bendable, at least in one direction, and it extends between two spaced apart parallel to the conveyor track attachment points. In this case, the adjustment determines the course of the support belt between the two attachment points and it is provided a tensioning means to keep the support belt regardless of its course and regardless of the length of this course between the two attachment points (free length) stretched.

The support bands of erfindungemässen device advantageously consist of a textile fabric or of a plastic film and are advantageously bendable so that they can be wound in their length on a relatively thin roll. The tensioning means is advantageously a spring-loaded tensioning roller.

Advantageously, the adjusting element is arranged between two adjacent conveyor compartments and designed so that it can act in addition to its the support surface of a conveyor compartment adjusting function also on the adjacent conveyor compartment and indeed to squeeze conveyed in this conveyor compartment articles against the support surface and thus in the conveyor compartment Even if this support surface has a spatial orientation in which the force of gravity is insufficient for such a hold.

The conveyor compartments, for example, substantially without distance from each other attached to a revolving conveyor member (conveyor chain or conveyor belt), wherein the conveying member, for example by deflection rollers (sprockets or gears) and optionally by rails on which rollers arranged on the conveyor organ, is guided, and wherein the conveyor track is defined by the course of the conveying member. However, the conveyor compartments can also be movable from one another more or less independently along rails, wherein the conveyor track is defined by the rails. In the latter case, the press function is only in Conveyor areas possible in which the conveyor compartments are promoted with minimal distances from each other so, for example, pushing each other.

According to the preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the two fastening points parallel to the conveyor track have a fixed distance from each other and perpendicular to the conveyor track fixed distances from this. The two ends of the support belt are thus fixed, for example, at two fixed, spaced-apart locations on the conveying member. The adjustment then acts on a region of the support belt between the attachment points and deflects it more or less from a straight line between the attachment points. In such a case, it is advantageous to combine the first attachment point of the conveyor compartments, with the second attachment point of each adjacent conveyor compartment and also to arrange the adjustment and the clamping means at this combined attachment point.

But it is also possible to arrange first and second attachment points along the conveying member separated and alternating and to install the adjusting elements substantially between the conveyor compartments. Further, it is also possible to arrange stationary only the second attachment points relative to the conveying member, to attach the adjusting elements to these attachment points and to arrange the first attachment points displaceable by the adjusting elements.

In the preferred embodiment (two attachment points for the support belt, which are stationary relative to the conveyor element), the adjustment element has a positioning roller which is oriented transversely to the conveyor path, for example approximately horizontally, and which acts on the surface of the support belt which lies opposite the support surface. Depending on the position of the positioning roller, the support belt extends directly between the two attachment points, the orientation of the support surface relative to the conveyor track is determined by these attachment points, or it passes between the attachment points on the positioning roller, which then determines the orientation of the support surface relative to the conveyor track. While the positioning roller is moved from one position to another, it rolls on the opposite surface of the support surface of the support surface. In this case, the clamping means compensates for the optionally changing length of the band profile and keeps the support band taut. The tensioning means is, for example, a sprung rotatable tensioning roller which is arranged in the region of an attachment point and onto which the support belt is wound or unwound, depending on the change in its course.

For positioning the positioning roller, the adjusting element, for example, a pivot lever, at the distal end of the positioning roller is mounted to rotate freely. Upon pivoting of the pivoting lever, the positioning roller is moved along a substantially semicircular path, which lies on the side of the conveyor track on which the conveyor compartments are arranged, and in a plane which is aligned parallel to the conveyor track.

• A Das Auflageband erstreckt sich im wesentlichen geradlinig zwischen den beiden Befestigungsstellen. Die Positionierrolle befindet sich zwischen den beiden Befestigungsstellen und hat dabei einen Abstand von der Förderbahn, der etwa gleich gross ist wie oder kleiner als der Abstand zwischen den Befestigungsstellen und der Förderbahn. Das Auflageband hat eine minimale freie Länge. Der Winkel zwischen der Förderbahn und der Auflagefläche ist im wesentlichen definiert durch die Befestigungsstellen und ist vorteilhafterweise klein, das heisst bei im wesentlichen horizontaler Förderbahn ist die Auflagefläche ebenfalls etwa horizontal oder in Richtung der Förderbahn leicht schief.
• B Die Positionierrolle ist mit einem grösstmöglichen Abstand von der Förderbahn im wesentlichen über der ersten Befestigungsstelle positioniert. Das Auflageband erstreckt sich mit einer gegenüber Position A grösseren freien Länge von der ersten Befestigungsstelle steil von der Förderbahn weg über die Positionierrolle zur zweiten Befestigungsstelle, wobei derjenige Teil des Auflagebandes, der sich zwischen der Positionierrolle und der zweiten Befestigungsstelle erstreckt, die Auflagefläche bildet. Der Winkel zwischen Förderbahn und Auflagefläche ist maximal, das heisst, die Auflagefläche hat bei im wesentlichen horizontaler Förderbahn eine maximale Steilheit.
• C Die Positionierrolle ist jenseits der ersten Befestigungsstelle positioniert und wird gegen die Auflagefläche eines auf der Förderabteilseite dieser Befestigungsstelle benachbarten Förderabteils gepresst. Das Auflageband verläuft von der ersten Befestigungsstelle vom Förderabteil weg um die Positionierrolle und von da an die zweite Befestigungsstelle zurück, wobei wiederum derjenige Teil der Auflagebandes, der sich zwischen der Positionierrolle und der zweiten Befestigungsstelle erstreckt, die Auflagefläche bildet. Das Auflageband hat eine grössere, freie Länge als für die Positionen A und B der Positionierrolle. Der Winkel zwischen der Auflagefläche und der Förderbahn wird bestimmt durch die Positionierrolle oder durch die Befestigungsstellen und ist insbesondere etwa gleich klein wie bei Position A der Positionierrolle.

The positioning roller of the preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention can assume an infinite number of positions along the path. Of these positions, the following three positions and the resulting progressions of the support belt are particularly relevant for the function of the conveyor compartments:

• A The support band extends substantially straight between the two attachment points. The positioning roller is located between the two attachment points and has a distance from the conveyor track, which is about the same size as or smaller than the distance between the attachment points and the conveyor track. The support band has a minimal free Length. The angle between the conveyor track and the support surface is essentially defined by the attachment points and is advantageously small, that is, at a substantially horizontal conveyor track, the support surface is also slightly horizontal or in the direction of the conveyor track also slightly wrong.
• B The positioning roller is positioned at the greatest possible distance from the conveyor track substantially above the first attachment point. The support belt extends with a relation to position A greater free length of the first attachment point steeply away from the conveyor path on the positioning to the second attachment point, wherein that part of the support belt which extends between the positioning and the second attachment point forms the support surface. The angle between the conveyor track and support surface is maximum, that is, the support surface has a maximum steepness at substantially horizontal conveyor track.
• C The positioning roller is positioned beyond the first attachment point and is pressed against the support surface of a conveyor compartment adjacent to the delivery compartment side of this attachment point. The support belt extends from the first attachment point away from the conveyor compartment around the positioning roller and from there to the second attachment point, again that part of the support band which extends between the positioning roller and the second attachment point forms the support surface. The support belt has a larger, free length than for the positions A and B of the positioning roller. The angle between the bearing surface and the conveyor track is determined by the positioning roller or by the attachment points and is in particular approximately the same size as in position A of the positioning roller.

Of course, angles between the bearing surface and the conveying path, which lie between the minimum and the maximum value, can also be adjusted by the positioning roller is positioned between positions A and B. The same angles can also be adjusted by positioning the positioning roller between positions B and C.

For the control of the positioning roller, the adjustment, for example, tax rolls, which roll in corresponding stationary scenes. For the production of an independent of the thickness of the subsidized items pressing force in the position C of the positioning roller this example is spring-mounted. If the pressing force is greater than the clamping force of the clamping means, the conveyor compartments for receiving said pressing force are advantageously provided with corresponding counter-elements.

The conveyor compartments are preferably rectified successively attached to a circumferentially driven conveying member. In this case, preferably, each roller conveyor is assigned a roller body which is fastened to the tension member and carries rollers running along rails.

On the surface forming the support surface of the support band, a stiffening means is preferably arranged at least over part of the strip length.

Figuren 1 bis 3

Ausschnitte aus einer ersten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung mit verschiedenen Förderabteil-Konfigurationen (Seitenansichten);

Figur 4

einen Querschnitt durch die Ausführungsform gemäss Figuren 1 bis 3 (Schnittline IV-IV in Figur 1);

Figuren 5 bis 8

beispielhafte Anwendungen der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung anhand von Seitenansichten von Förderbahnabschnitten der Vorrichtung gemäss Figuren 1 bis 4;

Figur 9

eine beispielhafte Ausführungsform einer Abgabestelle der Vorrichtung gemäss Figuren 1 bis 4;

Figuren 10 und 11

Querschnitt und Seitenansicht einer weiteren, beispielhaften Ausführungsform eines Auflagebandes für die erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung beispielsweise gemäss Figuren 1 bis 4;

Figuren 12 bis 15

beispielhafte Steuermittel zur Steuerung der Einstellelemente der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung beispielsweise gemäss Figuren 1 bis 4;

Figuren 16 bis 20

Einstellelemente einer zweiten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung;

Figuren 21 bis 25

Einstellelemente einer dritten Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung;

Figur 26

die Förderbahn einer vierten Ausführungsform der efindungsgemässen Vorrichtung (Seitenansicht);

Figuren 27 bis 29

einen Rollkörper mit Einstellelement der Ausführungsform gemäss Fig. 26 (Fig. 25: dreidimensionale Darstellung; Figs. 28 und 29: Schnitt parallel zur Förderrichtung);

Figur 30

ein Förderbahnausschnitt mit nach unten gerichteter Förderung der Ausführungsform gemäss Figuren 26 bis 29.

The conveyor device is preferably used for collating flat objects, in particular printed products, wherein a stack of articles is collected in each conveyor compartment. In this use, the stacks are preferably transferred to a transfer device at a transfer point at which the conveying path of the conveying device is deflected. Preferably, the transfer point is arranged in a conveyor track area with reverse promotion. The stacks are preferably selective at the transfer location to hand over. Some preferred embodiments of the conveying device according to the invention will be described in detail in connection with the following figures. Showing:

FIGS. 1 to 3

Parts of a first embodiment of the inventive device with different Förderabteil configurations (side views);

FIG. 4

a cross section through the embodiment according to FIGS. 1 to 3 (Section IV-IV in FIG. 1 );

FIGS. 5 to 8

exemplary applications of the inventive device based on side views of conveyor sections of the device according to FIGS. 1 to 4 ;

FIG. 9

an exemplary embodiment of a delivery point of the device according to FIGS. 1 to 4 ;

FIGS. 10 and 11

Cross-section and side view of a further exemplary embodiment of a support band for the inventive device, for example according to FIGS. 1 to 4 ;

FIGS. 12 to 15

exemplary control means for controlling the adjusting elements of the inventive device, for example according to Figures 1 to 4;

FIGS. 16 to 20

Adjusting elements of a second embodiment of the inventive device;

FIGS. 21 to 25

Adjustment elements of a third embodiment of the inventive device;

FIG. 26

the conveyor track of a fourth embodiment of the device according to the invention (side view);

FIGS. 27 to 29

a rolling body with adjustment of the embodiment according to Fig. 26 ( Fig. 25 : three-dimensional representation; Figs. 28 and 29 : Cut parallel to the conveying direction);

FIG. 30

a conveyor section with downwardly directed promotion of the embodiment according to FIGS. 26 to 29 ,

FIGS. 1 to 3 show in a first, exemplary embodiment of the inventive device, the functions of the adjusting elements of the conveyor compartments in which flat objects G are supported on a support surface S resting.

The three FIGS. 1 to 3 show in side view each a small section of a conveyor track 1, wherein the section shows a whole conveying compartment 2 with adjusting 3. Furthermore, the show FIGS. 1 to 3 Parts of adjacent conveyor compartments 2 'and 2 ", respectively, which connect to the conveyor compartment 2 on the side of the adjusting element 3 or on the other side FIGS. 1 to 3 from right to left or from left to right.

The conveying path 1 is defined by the course of a conveying member 6. This course is determined by rails 7, along which fixed to the conveying member 6 rolling body 8 are stirred with rollers 9 rolling. The conveying member 6 is in this case a toothed belt.

The conveyor compartment 2 has (like all conveyor compartments 2, 2 ', 2 "etc. of the conveyor) on a support belt 5, which is attached to two parallel to the conveyor track 1 spaced rolling elements 8 (first attachment point 10 and second attachment point 11) such that the longitudinal edges or the length of the support belt 5 extend in planes parallel to the conveyor track 1. The adjusting element 3 is pivotally mounted on the roller body 8 in the area of the first attachment point Length between the two attachment points 10 and 11 is kept under tension, is advantageously also disposed in the region of the first attachment point 10.

The adjusting element 3 comprises (like all adjusting elements 3, 3 ', 3 "etc. of the conveying device) essentially a positioning roller 13, a means for moving the positioning roller 13 and a control means The positioning roller 13 is freely rotating and advantageously spring-mounted in the pivoting lever 20. Advantageously, the pivoting lever 20 is a pair of twin levers arranged laterally from the supporting belt 5 designed, wherein the positioning roller 13 extends transversely to the conveyor track 1 and on this and that on the side of the support belt 5, which faces away from the support surface S, and wherein the ends of the positioning roller 13 are mounted in each one of the twin lever is, for example, about the axis of Spannr olle 12 but independently of this swiveling.

In the in the FIGS. 1 to 3 illustrated embodiment of the inventive device, the pivot lever 20 (or the two twin lever) is designed as a toggle lever with a distal leg 21 and a proximal leg 22, wherein the positioning roller 13 is mounted on the distal leg 21, wherein the distal Leg 21 is pivotally connected to the proximal leg 22 and wherein a biased spring 23 and a stop 24 hold the two legs 21 and 22 in a rest position with a minimum possible angle. The legs 21 and 22 can be moved by an opposing force by increasing the said angle from the rest position.

As a control means, the adjusting element 3, for example, a control lever 25 with it freely rotatably mounted control roller 26, wherein the control lever 25 is fixedly connected to the pivot lever 20. The control roller 26 rolls during the promotion on a stationary backdrop (not shown) from, the backdrop along the conveyor track and its distance from the conveyor track substantially the pivot position of the pivot lever 20 and thus determines the position of the positioning roller 13.

The FIGS. 1 to 3 show how in the preferred embodiment of the inventive device on a single rolling body 8, the first attachment point 10 of a conveyor compartment 2 and the second attachment point 11 of an adjacent conveyor compartment 2 'is arranged. Furthermore, the same rolling body 8 carries the adjusting element 3 and the tensioning roller 12 of the conveyor compartment 2. Between the rolling elements 8, to which said elements of all conveyor compartments are attached, in each case one advantageously identically designed roller body 8.1 can be arranged as a counter element for receiving the Pressing force is used (see Fig. 3 ).

FIG. 1 shows the conveyor compartment 2 in a state in which the angle between the conveyor track 1 and the support surface S is as large as possible. The positioning roller 13 is in the above-described position B, the pivot lever 20 is in its rest position (leg 21 on the stop 24) and extends away from the conveyor track 1. The objects G are on the support surface S and are of a transverse wall 27th supported in the region of the second attachment point 11. In the FIG. 1 illustrated configuration of the conveyor compartment 2 is particularly suitable for a gathering distance (see Fig. 5 ).

FIG. 2 shows the conveyor compartment 2 with a flachstmöglichen support surface S (smallest angle between support surface S and conveyor track 1), whose distance from the conveyor track in the region of the two attachment points 10 and 11 is approximately equal. The positioning roller 13 is in its position A and deflects the support belt 5 between the attachment points 10 and 11 little or not at all. The pivot lever 20 is in the rest position and extends against the second attachment point 11, that is, against the own conveying compartment 2. The in the FIG. 2 shown configuration of the conveyor compartment 2 is particularly suitable for a transfer of the objects (see FIG. 9 ).

FIG. 3 shows the conveyor compartment 2 with the smallest possible angle between support surface S and conveyor track 1 so essentially as in FIG. 2 , but in contrast to FIG. 2 the positioning roller 13 is not in the position A but in the position C, that is, on the adjacent conveyor compartment 2 'acts. In this case, the pivot lever 20 extends away from its own conveyor compartment 2, so that the steepness of the support surface S in turn defined by the attachment points 10 and 11 and the free length of the support belt 5 is greatest. The objects G lying on the support surface of the conveyor compartment 2 are pressed against the conveyor surface S by the positioning roller 13 of the conveyor compartment 2 "adjoining the conveyor compartment 2 on the side of the second attachment point 11 FIG. 3 illustrated configuration of the conveyor compartment is particularly suitable for a promotion along a steep conveyor track or arranged above the objects bearing surfaces.

By a corresponding force exerted on the control roller 26, which is received by the support surface S or as shown by a arranged at the pressing roller body 8, the positioning roller 13 is pressed against the objects G or optionally against the support surface S, wherein the distal leg 21 of the pivot lever 20 is moved against the force of the spring 23, depending on the thickness of the objects more or less from the stop 24 away.

Further, not shown embodiments of the inventive device differ from that in the FIGS. 1 to 3 illustrated embodiment, for example, characterized in that instead of the positioning roller, a tensioning roller is provided, that is, the first attachment point is arranged on the pivot lever and thereby is movable relative to the conveying member, or in that the tensioning roller in the region of the second attachment point 11 is arranged.

FIG. 4 shows those already related to the FIGS. 1 to 3 Ausführugsform described above embodiment of the inventive device across the conveyor track 1 cut (section line IV-IV in FIG. 1 ), wherein only the left half of the device is shown. In addition to those already associated with the FIGS. 1 to 3 shows elements described FIG. 4 also a stationary link 30, in which the control lever 26 arranged on the control roller 26 unrolls and whose distance from the conveyor track 1 determines the position of the positioning roller 13. As an alternative control means, a control roller 26.1 is shown and a corresponding backdrop 30.1. The alternative control roller 26.1 is arranged in the region of the knee joint of the toggle lever 20, for example on a hinge pin. To control the adjusting elements 3, it is of course also possible to arrange a control roller in the region of the positioning roller 13 and to let it roll on a corresponding backdrop (see also FIG. 8 ). It is also possible to provide several control rollers per setting element and to provide for these in different sections of the conveyor track optional scenes.

Further shows FIG. 4 more in detail the embodiment of the tension roller 12, which is held by means of internal tension spring 31 in a rotational position in which as much of the support belt 5 is wound thereon and of which the support belt 5 can be unwound only against the spring force. Coaxial with tensioning roller 12 and spring 31, the pivot shaft 32 of the pivot lever 20 is arranged.

The cut according to FIG. 4 lies in the region of a rolling body 8, on which a first and a second fastening point 10 and 11 and the tension roller 12 and the adjusting element 3 are arranged. The rolling body 8 consists essentially of two U-shaped profiles 33 which are fastened by means of bolts or rivets 34 on the conveyor member 6 (timing belt). One of the profiles 33 carries the rollers 9, the other the tension roller 12 and the actuator 3. One end of a support belt 5 is attached to the tension roller (first attachment point 10). One end of another support band 5 is clamped between the two profiles (second attachment point 11).

FIGS. 5 to 8 show different sections of the conveyor track 1 of a conveyor, for example according to FIGS. 1 to 4 , wherein in the various conveyor track sections, the adjusting elements 3 of the conveyor compartments 2 are set in different ways, that is, are moved relative to the conveying member 6 during the promotion.

FIG. 5 shows a gathering distance Z for creating stacks of printed products and / or other objects G in the conveyor compartments 2 of a device according to the invention, as for example in the FIGS. 1 to 4 is shown, and a transfer point U, at which the collected printed products are transferred to a further conveyor 40. On the collection path Z, the conveyor track 1, for example, horizontally and the conveyor compartments 2 are above the Conveyor track 1 arranged. The conveying direction F is such that the first fastening points 10 or the adjusting elements 3 form the trailing ends of the conveyor compartments 2. Above the gathering distance Z, feed points 41 are arranged, which are equipped, for example, with feeders or means for on-line feeding. The feed directions have a component parallel to the conveying direction F. The feeding means are synchronized with the conveying of the conveyor compartments 2, that in each conveyed under the feed points 41 conveying compartment 2 per a printed product or other flat object is supplied, wherein the printed product for alignment with the front arranged transverse wall 27 of the conveyor compartment in the Feeding a slightly higher speed than the conveyor compartment 2. On the feed line Z, the support surfaces S are steeply sloping forward (positioning rollers 13 in position B). Downstream of the last feeder, the positioning rollers 13 are moved to the position A, whereby the steepness of the support surfaces S for the transfer of the printed products to the further conveyor 40, which is for example a conveyor belt, is reduced. The transfer point U is associated with FIG. 9 described in detail.

FIG. 6 shows a conveyor section, which leads against a transfer point U, wherein the conveyor track 1 rises in front of the transfer point U. The conveying direction F is the same as in the FIG. 5 , Before the slope, the conveyor track 1 is approximately horizontal and the positioning rollers 13 are in position B. On the slope of a horizontal orientation of the support surfaces S is adjusted by the positioning rollers 13 are moved to a position between the positions A and B, such that the Angle between the bearing surfaces S and the conveyor track 1 is about the same size as the pitch angle of the conveyor track. 1

FIG. 7 shows a conveyor section, in which the bearing surfaces are conveyed at small angles to the conveyor track 1 via a slope and in the conveyor compartments 2 conveyed objects G are pressed by the positioning rollers 13 adjacent conveyor compartments against the support surfaces S. The conveying direction F can be oriented from left to right or vice versa. In the conveying direction from left to right, the positioning rollers 13 are first brought from position B to position C, wherein the angle between support surface S and conveyor track 1 is reduced and the positioning rollers 13 are pressed against the support surfaces S adjacent (in the present case trailing) conveyor compartments. In this configuration, the conveying compartments 2 can not only be conveyed as shown via steeply rising or falling conveyor track sections but they can also be reversed, that is to be promoted with over the objects G to be conveyed bearing surfaces S.

FIG. 8 shows a conveyor section, in which the conveying direction F can be directed from left to right or vice versa. When conveying direction F from left to right, the bearing surfaces S maximum angle to the conveyor track 1, which is substantially horizontal. If now the spatial steepness of the bearing surfaces S are to be maintained on the following slope, the distance between the positioning rollers 13 and the conveyor track 1 must be further increased, for which an engaging in the region of the positioning rollers link 30.2 is necessary, through which the pivot lever 20 from its rest position pulled and thereby be extended.

FIG. 9 shows on a larger scale a transfer point U at the of a device according to the invention as for example in the FIGS. 1 to 4 is shown in the conveyor compartments 2 promoted items G to another conveyor 40, such as a conveyor belt, optionally handed over or not passed, that can be ejected or returned. In the transfer point U, the conveyor compartments 2 are deflected by a relatively small deflection radius, for example by means of toothed guide roller 43, which is engaged with the conveying member 6, from a substantially horizontal conveyor track against the bottom. A very small radius of deflection compared to the length of the conveyor compartments 2 becomes possible because the support strips 5 forming the support surfaces S are bendable and have a variable free length.

The conveyor compartments 2 are arranged relative to the conveying direction such that the adjusting elements 3 are arranged at the trailing end of the conveyor compartments. The in FIG. 9 shown conveyor section 2 shows the conveyor compartment 2 immediately in front of the transfer point U and the leading adjacent conveyor compartment 2 "in the diversion.The conveyed in the conveyor compartment 2 items G are to be handed over, in the leading conveyor compartment 2" promoted items were not handed over.

For the support surface S of the conveyor compartment 2 is set as little as possible steep (positioning roller 13 in position A) and the positioning roller 13 of the leading conveyor compartment 2 "is not in position C but also in position A. Thus, in the deflection, the leading second attachment point of the conveyor compartment 2 and thus the transverse wall 27 separated from a leading portion of the articles G, so that these, provided that they have a sufficient inherent rigidity, on the correspondingly arranged conveyor belt (further conveyor 40) can be pushed.

The conveyed in the conveyor compartment 2 "items were not handed over in the transfer point U, characterized in that the positioning roller 13 of the before the conveyor compartment 2" funded Förderabteils 2 "'was placed in front of the transfer point U in the position C and for the promotion of the deflection and for the reverse promotion following the diversion, this position is maintained.

For dropping non-transferred, that is, discharged objects or for its transfer to another conveyor, the positioning roller 13 of the advancing conveyor compartment 2 "'is moved from position C to position B or A, at least until the items are removed can.

For those in the FIG. 9 illustrated, selective transfer, it is important that the adjustment elements are equipped such that the angle between the support surfaces S and the conveyor track 1 for the position A and C of the positioning roller 13 is substantially the same. Only then is it possible that the objects can be safely handed over from a conveying compartment, regardless of whether the items are to be handed over in the subsequent conveying compartment or not.

FIGS. 10 and 11 show in section across the conveyor track and as a side view of a transfer point a means by which the support belt is stiffened. The stiffening means shown are on the side of the support surface S centered along at least part of the length of the support belt 5 and is bendable only in one direction, but stiff in the other direction. The stiffening means consists, for example, of a series of cubic elements 45 arranged directly next to one another, which are fastened on the support side of the support belt 5 and which prevent by their arrangement a bending of the support belt against the support side and a bending away from the support side (eg by the positioning roller). allow. That in the FIGS. 10 and 11 shown stiffening largely prevents sagging of the support surface and also brings the subsidized in the conveyor compartment flat objects in a position parallel to the conveyor curved position. As a result, the objects in this direction are stiffer and slip better on the support surface.

FIGS. 12 to 15 show exemplary scenes 30, with the control rollers 26 of pivot levers 20 of the embodiment of the inventive device according to FIGS. 1 to 4 to cooperate for positioning the positioning roller 13. Shown is in each case an adjusting element 3 with a pivot lever 20 in the form of a toggle lever with a distal and a proximal legs 21 and 22, which are biased by spring 23 and stop 24 against each other, and with a control lever 25 with control roller 26, wherein the control roller along the Backdrop 30 rolls off.

FIG. 12 shows the link 30 in a conveyor section, in which the positioning roller 13 is to be moved from the position B against the position A. For this purpose, the initial distance of the link 30 from the conveyor track 1 by a value D.1 of about a position B of the positioning roller 13 causes increased. The corresponding movement of the positioning roller 13 is indicated by an arrow. The control roller 26 rolls off while on the lower guide surface of the link 30. In the opposite direction of conveyance and movement of the positioning roller 13 against the position B from the side of the position A, the control roller 26 would roll on the upper guide surface of the link 30. When operating in one direction only, one of the illustrated control surfaces may be omitted.

FIG. 13 shows a backdrop 30, by means of which the positioning roller 13 is held in the position A. The link 30 has a constant, corresponding distance D.2 from the conveyor track 1.

FIG. 14 shows the slide 30 in a conveyor section, in which the positioning roller 13 is to be moved from the position B against the position C (arrow). For this purpose, the initial distance of the link 30 from the conveyor track 1 is reduced by a value D.1 (for position B), wherein the control roller 26 rolls on the upper control surface. In the opposite direction conveying the positioning roller 13 is against the position B (from the direction of the position C) moves and the control roller 26 rolls on the lower control surface. Also in this case, when operating in only one direction optionally one of the guide surfaces of the guide 30 may be omitted.

FIG. 15 shows a backdrop 30, by means of which the positioning roller 13 can be held in position C. The scenery runs on the opposite side of the conveyor track 1, wherein the distance between the gate 30 and conveyor track 1 increases. As a result, the knee joint of the pivot lever 20 is stretched under tension of the spring 23 with a corresponding thickness of the objects, wherein the positioning roller 13 remains in approximately the same position, but the pressing force on the objects to be pressed increases.

FIGS. 16 to 20 show a further exemplary embodiment of adjusting elements for the inventive device. FIG. 16 is a three-dimensional representation of a setting element 3, FIGS. 17 to 19 are side views of the adjusting element 3 with the positioning roller 13 in positions B, A and C and FIG. 20 is a section through the device transverse to the conveyor track. The adjustment has the same function and largely the same parts as the adjustment of the device according to FIGS. 1 to 4 , These same parts are also designated by the same reference numerals and are described only where necessary.

The differences of the setting 3 according to FIGS. 16 to 20 and the adjustment of the device according to FIGS. 1 to 4 lie in the embodiment of the pivot lever 20 and the twin lever 20.1 and 20.2. The pivot lever 20 has a distal leg 21, in which the positioning roller 13 is mounted and a proximal leg 22 which, together with the control lever 25, on which the control roller 26 is arranged, relative to the conveying member 6 (or 6.1 and 6.2) pivotable is. At the proximal leg 22, a gear 50 is freely rotatably mounted, such that it is in engagement with a toothed wheel 51 which is stationary relative to the conveying member 6, or rolls on it when the proximal leg 22 pivots. The distal leg 21 is pivotally mounted on the gear 50 and is biased by the spring 23 against the stop 24. In a change in position of the control roller 26, which rolls on a corresponding backdrop, the proximal leg is pivoted, the movable gear 50 rolls on the stationary gear 51 and shifts the distal leg 21 accordingly, as shown in FIGS FIGS. 17 to 19 is apparent. In position C ( FIG. 19 ) is the positioning roller 13 on a correspondingly arranged as a counter element functioning roller 8.1 and on further movement of the control roller 26, the distal leg 21 is pivoted under tension of the spring 23 from the stop 24 away.

Out FIG. 16 is also a preferred embodiment of the conveying member 6 and the rolling elements 8 and 8.1 can be seen. The conveying member consists essentially of two parallel to the conveyor track extending and spaced apart toothed belts 6.1 and 6.2. The rolling elements 8, as already in connection with the FIG. 4 described a U-shaped profile 33 on which the rollers 9 are attached. The rolling body 8.1 has a same profile 33. The middle part of the profile 33 extends over the toothed belts 6.1 and 6.2 and is attached to these, the rollers 9 are arranged on the outer profile parts. Thus, the timing belt 6.1 and 6.2 are deflected by the smallest possible deflection radius, the U-shaped profiles parallel to the conveyor track as small as possible extension.

A comparison of FIGS. 12 to 15 with the FIGS. 17 to 19 shows that in which the gears 50 and 51 having adjustment 3, the paths of the control roller 26 are significantly smaller without the force is greater, which is an advantage over scenes 30.

FIG. 20 shows the setting 3 according to FIGS. 16 to 19 partly in section across the conveyor track. From this figure, a particularly advantageous embodiment of the support belt 5 and the positioning roller 13 can be seen. The support belt 5 consists of a plurality of subbands 5.1 which are spaced apart. The positioning roller 13 has rings 13.1 which are arranged spaced apart along the axial length of the positioning roller 13 and at least partially freely rotatable relative thereto. The distances between the rings 13. 1 are adapted to the width of the subbands 5.1, the axial width of the rings at the distances between the subbands 5.1, such that the subbands 5.1 are positioned on the positioning roller 13 between the rings 13.1 and the rings 13.1 protrude over the subbands 5.1. The function of the rings 13.1 is limited to the position C of the positioning roller 13, in which the articles are optionally moved relative to the Anpressenden Positionierrolle 13, while the position of the running on the positioning roller 13 support belt 5 relative to the positioning roller 13 but remains unchanged. That is, the positioning should roll on the items to be clamped, but not on the support belt 5. With the positioning roller 13 according to FIG. 20 the said two functions of the positioning roller 13 are separated in position C from each other. The positioning roller 13 itself rolls on the support belt 5 or on the subbands 5.1, while the rings 13.1 can roll at a constant rotational position of the positioning roller 13 on the pressed objects.

FIGS. 21 to 25 show a further embodiment of the adjusting elements 3 for a device according to the invention. FIG. 21 is a three-dimensional representation of a setting element 3, FIGS. 22 to 24 are side views of the adjustment with the positioning roller 13 in positions B, A and C and FIG. 25 is a section through the device transverse to the conveyor track. The adjusting element 3 has the same function and largely the same parts as the adjusting element 3 of the device according to FIGS. 16 to 20 , These same parts are also designated by the same reference numerals and are described only where necessary.

The adjusting 3 according FIGS. 21 to 25 differs from the setting according to FIGS. 16 to 20 by the configuration of the control lever 25 and the proximal limb 22 of the pivoting lever 20. While in the adjustment 3 according to FIGS. 16 to 20 the control lever 25 and the proximal leg 22 are pivoted about the same pivot axis and with each other, the control lever 25 and the proximal leg 22 of the adjusting element 3 according to FIGS. 21 to 25 two parallel and spaced apart pivot axes and are coupled via a sliding joint 55 with each other. A hinged in the area of the control roller 26 on the control lever 25 pivot pin 56 moves in a displacement of the control roller 26 in a slot-shaped opening 57 of the proximal leg 22nd

The adjusting 3 according FIGS. 21 to 25 has even smaller control paths for the tax role 26, which also does not have to be expected with higher control forces.

FIG. 26 shows an exemplary conveyor track 1 of a further exemplary embodiment of the inventive conveyor device. The conveyor track 1, along which the conveyor compartments 2 are conveyed with trailing adjustment elements 3, again has a collation path Z with feed points 41, at which an object G is delivered to each conveyor compartment 2. For this purpose, the bearing surfaces S of the conveyor compartments 2 in their steepest position (position B of the positioning rollers). The gathering distance Z is followed by a first deflection 50 by approximately 180 °, such that after the deflection 50 the bearing surfaces S lie above the objects G (reverse conveying) and the objects must therefore be held in the conveyor compartments 2. For this purpose, the adjusting elements 3 are brought into the clamping position before the first deflection 50 (position C of the positioning rollers), in which they clamp the objects against the support surface of the respective conveying conveyor. At the end of the reverse promotion, that is, before a second diversion 51 is about 180 °, the transfer point U, at which the articles G are delivered to a further conveyor 40.

The further conveying device 40 is, for example, a conveyor belt arranged below the conveyor track 1 of the conveyor compartments 2, onto which the articles G are deposited, in that the setting element 3 of the leading conveyor compartment is in a position C close but not clamping position or directly in the position B is brought.

Between the first and the second deflection, so in the field of reverse promotion may also be arranged a Ausschleusstelle E, in the control means (not shown) are provided, with which the adjusting elements 3 are movable from position C, and means for collecting the thereby unleashed, for example, as incomplete, damaged or otherwise the requirements not sufficiently detected and therefore auszuschleusenden objects.

The embodiment according to FIG. 26 has compared to the embodiment of the inventive device, as in connection with the FIGS. 1 to 9 has been described, two advantages. First, the transfer works at the transfer point U, at which the items G are conveyed conversely, even with objects that have only a very low inherent rigidity, which is for the transfer U according to FIG. 9 can lead to difficulties. Second, a position A of the adjusting elements 3 is not necessary, whereby they can be made simpler (see FIGS. 27 to 29 ).

FIGS. 27 to 29 show a rolling body 8 for the embodiment of the inventive device, as shown in the FIG. 26 is shown. In FIG. 27 is the rolling body 8 shown in three dimensions, in the FIGS. 28 and 29 in section parallel to the conveying direction F ( Fig. 28 : Positioning roller in position B; Fig. 29 : Positioning roller in position C). The rolling body 8 has two side parts 55.1 and 55.2 and a lateral part connecting the transverse part 57, which is attached by suitable means to two toothed belts 6.1 and 6.2 (transport member). On rolling elements are further mounted as the rolling elements of the previously described embodiments of the inventive device, the following elements: the adjustment 3, the first attachment point 10, the second attachment point 11 of the adjacent conveyor compartment, which has the tension roller 12 in the present case, and a plurality of rollers 9.

The adjusting element 3 in turn has one of two each on one side of the support belt 5 arranged twin levers 20.1 and 20.2, which are pivotally mounted in the side parts 55.1 and 55.2 of the rolling body 8. Each of the twin levers 20.1 and 20.2 has an adjusting leg 60 and a control arm 61, which are both pivotable about the same axis 62. The two legs 60 and 61 are connected to each other via the prestressed spring 23 and limited against the force of this spring independently of each other about the axis 62 pivotally. The control lever 61 carries a control roller 26, which in a pivot position of the control lever defining scenery (not shown) rolls. The adjusting lever 60 carries the positioning roller 13th

The FIGS. 28 and 29 show the position B of the positioning roller 13, in which the support surface S is the steepest relative to the conveyor track, and the position C of the positioning roller 13, in which it is pressed against the support surface S of an adjacent conveyor compartment 2 'or against objects G positioned on this support surface to keep it, for example, in reverse conveyance in the conveyor compartment 2 '.

In the position B of the positioning roller 13 of the adjustment leg 60 is aligned approximately at right angles to the conveying direction F and the distance perpendicular to the conveying direction between positioning roller 13 and the second attachment point 11 is the greatest possible and thus the angle between the conveyor track 1 and the support surface S maximum. By pivoting the control arm 61 and the adjusting leg 60 connected thereto via the spring 23 against the adjacent conveyor compartment 2 ', the positioning roller 13 is moved against the adjacent conveyor compartment 2' and under compression of the spring 23 it is pressed against the support surface S of this conveyor compartment 2 ' with which their position C is reached.

Unlike in the previously described embodiments of the inventive device, the first attachment point 10 of the conveyor compartment 2 and the second attachment point 11 of the adjacent Förderabteils 2 'spaced apart and takes over in this area the cross member 57 of the roller 8, the function of the support surface S and has a steepness on, which corresponds to the steepness of the support belt 5 at position B of the positioning roller 13. The adjusting lever 60 is dimensioned such that the positioning roller 13 is not enough in its position C on the support belt 5 but is pressed against the cross member 57. Thus, the arrangement of another rolling body in the region of the pressing point is unnecessary, as in connection with the FIG. 3 has been described. The cross member 57 of the rolling body 8 can also take over the function of a front wall 65 of the conveyor compartments, on which wall the objects supplied at the feed points are aligned.

Unlike in the previously described embodiments of the inventive device, for which also the position A of the positioning roller 13 is possible or necessary, are in the embodiment according to FIG. 26 only the positions B and C of the positioning roller 13 is required. As a result, the tape length between the first attachment point 10 and Positionierrolle always remains the same. The tension roller 12 is in this Trap advantageously arranged at the second attachment point 11, so that the positioning roller 13 does not have to roll on the support belt 5. It is then possible and advantageous to attach the support belt 5 to the positioning roller 13 or to use the positioning roller 13 at all as a first attachment point (not shown). The in the FIGS. 27 to 29 Positioning roller 13 shown consists of two half-rollers between which the support belt 5 is clamped and thereby held. Furthermore, the positioning roller 13 is not freely rotatable but fixed in its rotational position fixed to the side parts 55.1 and 55.2 of the rolling body 8. It would also be possible to use a positioning roller 13 with a cross section other than round.

FIG. 30 shows on a larger scale than FIG. 26 the reverse conveyance (conveyance with the support surface over the conveyed objects) with the device as used in connection with FIGS. 26 to 29 is described. This also the rails 7, in which the rollers 9 roll the rolling body 8, and a lower guide 66, through which the free ends of the held in the conveyor compartments 2 items G are stirred, can be seen.

Most of the features described in the above description for specific embodiments of the device according to the invention can also be used in an adapted manner for other embodiments. The person skilled in the art is in the knowledge of the invention readily able to realize such non-described feature combinations.

Claims (15)

1. A conveyor device for conveying flat objects (G), said conveyor device comprising a plurality of conveyor compartments (2) which can be moved one after the other along a conveying path (1) defined by a conveyor member (6) or by way of rails (7), wherein each conveyor compartment (2) comprises a support surface (S), and wherein an angle between the support surface (S) and the conveying path (1) can be set, characterised in that each conveyor compartment (2) comprises a support belt (5) with a length between two belt ends and with a width extending transversely to the conveying path (1), as well as with a surface forming the support surface (S) and an oppositely lying surface, wherein the support belt (5) can be bent longitudinally at least against and towards the oppositely lying surface and wherein the belt ends are fastened on two fastening locations (10, 11) which are distanced to one another and parallel to the conveying path (1).
2. A conveyor device according to claim 1, characterised in that each conveyor compartment (2) comprises a setting element (3) for setting the angle between the support surface (S) and the conveying path (1), said setting element being designed in order, engaging on the support belt (5), to change its course between the fastening locations (10, 11), and that each conveyor compartment (2) further comprises a tensioning means for tensioning the support belt (5), wherein the setting elements (3) arc preferably additionally designed in order to press objects conveyed in adjacent conveyor compartments (2') against the support surface (S).
3. A conveyor device according to claim 2, characterised in that the two fastening locations (10, 11) have a fixed distance to one another parallel to the conveying path (1), and transverse to the conveying path (1) have fixed distances to this, and that the setting element (3) in a belt region between the fastening locations (10, 11) engages on the oppositely lying surface of the support belt (5).
4. A conveyor device according to claim 3, characterised in that the setting element (3) comprises a positioning roller (13) with an axis which is aligned parallel to the width of the support belt (5), and that the positioning roller (13) is movably arranged in a manner such that its distance to the conveying path (1) and its distance to the fastening locations (10, 11) can be varied parallel to the conveying path (1).
5. A conveyor device according to claim 4, characterised in that the positioning roller (13) is movable along an essentially circular-are shaped movement path, wherein the movement path lies in a plane parallel to the conveying path (1) and its middle point is arranged in the region of a first (10) of the two fastening locations (10, 11), wherein the tensioning means is a resiliently rotatable tensioning roller (12) and/or wherein the tensioning means is arranged preferably in the region of the first fastening location (10 or 11).
6. A conveyor device according to claims 5, characterised in that the positioning roller (13) is arranged on a pivot lever (20) in a freely rotating manner, wherein preferably the pivot lever (20) is pivotable about an axis of the tensioning roller (12) and/or wherein preferably the pivot lever (20) comprises two twin levers (20.1 and 20.2) arranged in each case laterally of the support belt (5).
7. A conveyor device according to claim 6, characterised in that the pivot lever (20) is a toggle lever, which comprises a proximal limb (22) and a distal limb (21) which carries the positioning roller (13), wherein the two limbs (22, 21) are held in a biased idle position with the help of a spring (23) and a stop (24), wherein preferably the pivot lever (20) is actively connected to a control lever (25), and the control lever (25) comprises a control element, with whose help the pivot lever (20) and thus the positioning roller (13) can be moved and/or wherein a freely rotating first toothed wheel (50) is arranged preferably on the proximal limb (22), and a second toothed wheel (51) is fixedly arranged on the conveyor compartment (2), in a manner such that it is in engagement with the first toothed wheel (50)
8. A conveyor device according to claim 7, characterised in that the pivot lever (20) and the control lever (25) are connected to one another in a rigid manner or that the pivot lever (20) and the control lever (25) are pivotable about pivot axes distanced to one another parallel to the conveying path (1), and are articulately connected to one another by way of a sliding joint (55).
9. A conveyor device according to claim 5, characterised in that the tension roller (12) is arranged at the second fastening location (11) and that the positioning roller (13) is fastened on the support belt (5) and is arranged in a fixed rotation position on a pivot lever (20), wherein the pivot lever (20) comprises preferably two twin levers (20.1 and 20.2) which are arranged in each case laterally of the support belt (5).
10. A conveyor device according to claims 9, characterised in that the pivot lever comprises a setting limb (60), on which the positioning roller (13) is arranged, and a control limb (61) with a control element (26), wherein the setting limb (60) and the control limb (61) are pivotably arranged about the same axis (62) and are connected to one another via a biased spring (23).
11. A conveyor device according to one of the claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the conveyor compartments (2) arc fastened in an equally directed and successive manner on a revolvingly drivable conveyor member (6), wherein a roller body (8) is assigned to each conveyor compartment (2) and is fastened on the pull member (6) and carries runner rollers (9) running along rails (7).
12. A conveyor device according to claim 11, characterised in that the first fastening location (10) and the setting element (3) of the conveyor compartment (2) arc arranged on the roller body (8) assigned to the conveyor compartment (2), and that the second fastening location (11) is arranged on the roller body (8) assigned to an adjacent conveyor compartment (2").
13. A conveyor device according to one of the claims 11 or 12, characterised in that an additional roller body (8.1) is assigned to each conveyor compartment (2) and is arranged between the two fastening locations (10 and 11), wherein preferably the conveyor member (6) comprises two parallel toothed belts (6.1 and 6.2).
14. A conveyor device according to one of the claims 11 to 13, characterised in that the roller bodies (8) comprise a U-shaped profile (33), wherein a middle part of the profile (33) is connected to the conveyor member (6), and outer parts of the profile (33) carry the runner rollers (9), or that the roller bodies (8) comprise two side parts (55.1 and 55.2) and a transverse part (57), wherein the transverse part (57) is connected to the conveyor member (6) and the side parts carry the runner rollers (9), wherein the transverse part (57) preferably forms a part of the support surface (S) and forms a wall (65) of the conveyor compartment (2).
15. The use of a conveyor device according to one of the claims 1 to 14 for collating flat objects (G), in particular printed products, wherein a stack of objects (G) is collated in each conveyor compartment (2).

Images