Loading equipment and method for loading a container with piece packages

Abstract

A loading device (20) is described and illustrated for loading a container (21), in particular a rolling container, with piece packages, comprising a conveying channel (27) for conveying the piece packages (22) one after the other in the direction of the container (21). In order to make it easier and more convenient to load the container with piece packages without having to accept disproportionate disadvantages with regard to possible damage to the packages, it is proposed that the conveying channel (27) has an upper inlet (29) for conveying the piece packages (22) into the conveying channel (27) and a lower outlet (32) for conveying the piece packages (22) into the container (21).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a loading device for loading a container, in particular a rolling container, with piece packages. The invention also relates to a method for loading a container, in particular a rolling container, with piece packages using such a loading device. Background Art

[0002] Frequently, containers such as rolling containers are loaded manually with piece packages in order to be able to utilize the loading space of the container efficiently. This applies in particular when piece packages of different sizes are to be loaded into the container. Furthermore, manual loading of containers with piece packages offers the advantage that loading can be performed in a protective manner for the piece packages to be loaded. This is of great significance since piece packages can be damaged in the event of improper handling and, for cost reasons, piece packages are not designed to be stable and strong enough to reliably withstand even the greater forces acting on them.

[0003] The individual packages can also be introduced into the corresponding container via the pipe, wherein the individual packages then fall into the corresponding container after exiting the pipe. If the falling height of the individual packages is too great, it cannot be ruled out that the individual packages are damaged. Therefore, in order to avoid possible damage to the individual packages, it has been proposed to at least partially limit the inclination of the pipe in order to reduce the speed at which the individual packages are discharged from the pipe and fall into the container.

[0004] Containers are to be understood here in particular as those containers which can be loaded more or less from above and / or are provided primarily for enterprise sites. The use of containers generally does not require a drive of the container itself to move it on the enterprise site. However, in order to be able to simply displace the container, it can be done manually or by means of a separate drive unit, but it is particularly proposed that the container has rollers. Such containers are also generally referred to as rolling containers, independently of which the corresponding containers are usually also transported from one enterprise site to another. For this purpose, the container is then loaded into a commercial vehicle and driven to another enterprise site by public transportation as required and unloaded again there. Here, it is also proposed that the container is designed as a rolling container for simply loading and unloading commercial vehicles.

[0005] Preferred containers, in particular rolling containers, are designed as required to be unloaded through the sides of the container, while loading of the container can be carried out from the sides and from above. In this case, the sides of the container provided for loading and unloading can be closed by at least one door or at least one flap. However, the individual packages are usually prevented from accidentally falling out by means of straps, strips or curtains that can span the lateral openings of the container. These straps, strips or curtains can preferably be opened for loading and unloading. In addition, the straps, strips or curtains usually span the opening of the container in an approximately horizontal direction. The top side of the container can also be completely or partially closed, but in principle this does not have to be the case.

[0006] However, it is not necessary to load and / or unload the container by the side of the container. In principle, it is also sufficient to have only an upper opening of this container that can be closed as needed. Here, this container is particularly preferably designed as a rolling container, so that the container can be displaced along the ground by a plurality of rollers. However, the container can also cope with it even without rollers and is carried, for example, by a pallet. Containers made of different materials are also considered, such as cardboard boxes or so-called grid boxes. In addition, the container can have different basic planes, such as rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal cross-sections. Similarly, the container does not necessarily have fixed side walls in the traditional sense. Therefore, for example, so-called big bags are also considered, which can be held in separate holders. Summary of the invention

[0007] The invention is therefore based on the object of designing and improving a loading device and a method of the type mentioned at the outset and explained in detail above, respectively, in such a way that containers can be loaded with piece packages more simply and more conveniently without having to accept disproportionate disadvantages with regard to possible damage to the packages.

[0008] This object is achieved according to claim 1 by a loading device for loading containers, in particular rolling containers, with piece packages, the loading device comprising a conveying channel for conveying these piece packages in sequence in the direction of the container, wherein the conveying channel has an entrance for conveying these piece packages to the upper part of the conveying channel, and an exit for conveying these piece packages to the lower part of the container, wherein at least one upper finger-shaped position with at least one finger-shaped element and at least one lower finger-shaped position with at least one finger-shaped element are provided in the conveying channel, wherein the at least one finger-shaped element of the upper finger-shaped position and the at least one finger-shaped element of the lower finger-shaped position respectively have at least two flexible side elements extending together from the end of the finger-shaped element to the opposite end of the finger-shaped element, and wherein the at least two flexible side elements of the finger-shaped elements are respectively flexibly connected to each other by a plurality of connecting members, so that the finger-shaped elements can be adjusted from at least one bent position to at least one extended position and can be adjusted back.

[0009] The stated object is also achieved according to claim 11 by a method for loading containers, in particular roll-off containers, with piece packages by means of a loading device according to one of claims 1 to 10,

[0010] - wherein the packaged pieces are introduced successively into an inlet at the upper part of the conveying channel,

[0011] - wherein the package pieces introduced into the inlet of the conveying channel are brought into contact with the at least one finger element of the upper finger position and are braked by the at least one finger element,

[0012] - wherein the packaged pieces braked by the at least one finger element of the upper finger position are brought into contact with the at least one finger element of the lower finger position and braked by the at least one finger element, and

[0013] - wherein the unitized packages braked by the at least one finger element of the lower finger position exit from the conveying channel through the lower outlet of the conveying channel into the container.

[0014] According to the invention, a conveying channel is provided, through which the piece packages are conveyed in the direction of the container. The conveying channel is preferably configured to convey the piece packages by gravity, so that no additional drive is required for conveying the piece packages. The conveying channel is configured here to convey the piece packages one after the other, but this does not mean that a plurality of piece packages cannot be accommodated simultaneously in the conveying channel. In principle, a plurality of piece packages can also be conveyed together through the conveying channel as required. However, it is then the case that further piece packages are conveyed together or individually through the conveying channel before or after. That is, at least a portion of the total number of piece packages to be loaded into the container is always conveyed one after the other.

[0015] The piece packages to be loaded can be sorted or otherwise arranged in advance. The piece packages are preferably transported to the conveying channel by a conveying device. Here, a belt conveyor is particularly proposed for simplicity. In order to provide high flexibility for the loading location of the container, it is proposed that the belt conveyor is a telescopic belt conveyor. In addition, a conveyor in the form of a sorting device is proposed, which separates a branch flow of the piece packages from the piece package flow and supplies the branch flow of the piece packages to the conveying channel. In principle, the piece packages are introduced into the conveying channel completely through the upper entrance and are therefore transported to the conveying channel. After the piece packages have passed through the conveying channel, these piece packages are discharged from the conveying channel at the outlet of the lower part of the conveying channel and therefore arrive in the container, and the outlet of the lower part of the conveying channel is preferably arranged in the container. The outlet of the conveying channel is arranged below the entrance in the direction of gravity, so that gravity can be used to transport the piece packages from the entrance to the outlet through the conveying channel.

[0016] At least two different finger positions are provided along the conveying channel, along the conveying path of the piece packages, wherein the finger positions are arranged on different planes along the conveying channel and in the direction of gravity. That is, there is at least one upper finger position and at least one lower finger position. The finger positions each have at least one finger element, wherein preferably there are a plurality of finger elements respectively. In addition, the at least one finger element preferably extends into the conveying channel with its free end. The finger element can be arranged with its opposite ends on the edge and / or wall of the conveying channel and fixed there as required. In the case of a wall of the conveying channel, the wall is in particular a wall that delimits the conveying channel outwardly. Here, the conveying channel does not necessarily have to be completely closed in the circumferential direction. However, the opening should not be too large, so that the piece packages remain in the conveying channel and do not accidentally fall out of the conveying channel. That is, the piece packages can come into contact with the fingers of the finger positions during the conveying through the conveying channel, wherein the piece packages can be braked and / or diverted due to this contact.

[0017] With respect to the finger elements, the invention makes use of the so-called "fin ray effect" in order to be able to load piece packages of very different sizes into the container conveniently and without damage as required. Therefore, the finger elements each have at least two flexible side elements that extend together from the end of the finger element to the opposite finger element. It is particularly proposed here that the side elements form the top side and the bottom side of each finger element, so that the piece packages are always grasped by the side elements. However, this is not absolutely necessary. However, the flexible side elements of each finger element are flexibly connected to each other by a plurality of connecting elements, so that the finger elements obtain the required flexibility in order to be able to adjust from at least one bent position to at least one extended position and back. It is particularly convenient here that the finger elements can be bent and extended again steplessly. The finger elements can then assume different bent positions, in particular correspondingly just as they are suitable for grasping and unloading a certain piece package.

[0018] The so-called "fin effect" can be observed in the caudal fin of bony fish. If a fin is pressed laterally with a finger, the fin does not bend away from the finger, but towards it. This is possible due to the special structure of the fin. This structure is correspondingly imitated in the finger-shaped elements of the at least one hand-shaped element.

[0019] The required flexibility of the finger-shaped element can be provided, for example, by elastic side elements or by an endless chain (formed by rigid links that can be connected to one another in a pivotable or articulated manner). In this case, a corresponding flexibility is only necessary in a certain spatial direction. Flexibility in a spatial direction perpendicular thereto is not absolutely necessary. Nevertheless, flexibility in two spatial directions perpendicular to one another is also conceivable and, if necessary, also preferred. The corresponding flexibility of the side elements ultimately allows the finger-shaped element to be bent, for example, starting from a stretched position into a bent position, similar to the bending of a finger.

[0020] In order to be able to trigger the bending of the finger-shaped element in a certain direction, for example due to pressure on the finger-shaped element, in particular the side element, in the opposite direction, the at least two side elements are flexibly connected to each other between the two ends of the finger-shaped element by a plurality of connecting elements. The connecting elements can be rigidly designed and can be pivotally or articulatedly connected to the side elements. However, it is also possible to use flexible, in particular elastic connecting elements instead of the pivotable or articulated connection to the at least two side elements as required. In this way, it is achieved that the connecting element can be pivoted relative to the at least two side elements in order to thereby enable the bending of the finger-shaped element from the extended position to the bent position and vice versa.

[0021] The "extended position of the finger" can be understood as the maximally extended and / or elongated orientation of the finger. However, it can also be a position from which the finger can be adjusted by further bending to a position that is further bent relative to the extended position. Correspondingly, the bent position does not necessarily have to be the maximally bent position. The terms "extended position" and "bent position" can therefore be understood only relatively, i.e. as relative positions relative to one another, as required. It should also be taken into account that the finger can be adjusted from the extended position in opposite directions to positions that are bent differently.

[0022] When the finger element is pressed against the piece package, the finger element can finally adapt its shape to the shape of the piece package that comes into contact with the finger element due to the corresponding structure, or vice versa. As a result, on the one hand, a larger contact surface between the finger element and the piece package can be provided, which has a favorable effect on the handling of the piece package in the conveying channel. However, even in the absence of any contact between the finger element and at least one piece of goods, the structure of the finger element allows the pre-bending rate to be set as required. For this purpose, for example, the side elements can be adjusted relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the finger element. In this case, the finger element is then bent away from the side element, which is adjusted further in the longitudinal direction relative to the opposite end of the finger element compared to the at least one other side element. If the piece package now comes into contact with the corresponding pre-bent finger element, the bending of the finger element can change due to the corresponding contact, which can advantageously affect the further transportation of the piece package that comes into contact with the finger element, for example by braking or diverting the piece package due to the change in curvature.

[0023] In order to be able to adjust the finger element, for example, not only in one plane, the finger element can also have, for example, three or more side elements, which are connected to one another by means of connecting elements. The connecting element can be designed, for example, in the shape of a cross, star, rectangle, square, oval or circle, so that it can be easily fixed to all side elements. The corresponding connection is preferably formed pivotably or rotatably and / or the connecting element is formed flexibly.

[0024] A piece package is understood as a special type of individual piece of goods. A piece package is thus an item that is packed in a package. Thus, a piece package can have at least one outer packaging made of paper, cardboard, fabric or plastic and can be present, for example, as a package, a box and a container, as well as a non-dimensionally stable package, such as a packaging bag or a sack.

[0025] The container is preferably a rolling container and is arranged as required to be unloaded through the side of the container, while the container can be loaded from the side and from above. Here, the side of the container arranged for loading and unloading can be closed by at least one door or at least one flap. However, the individual packages are usually prevented from accidentally falling out by means of belts, strips or curtains that can span the lateral openings of the container. These belts, strips or curtains can preferably be opened for loading and unloading. In addition, the belts, strips or curtains usually span the opening of the container in an approximately horizontal direction. The top side of the container can also be completely or partially closed, but in principle this does not need to be the case.

[0026] However, it is not necessary to load and / or unload the container by the side of the container. In principle, it is also sufficient to have only an upper opening of this container that can be closed as needed. Here, this container is particularly preferably designed as a rolling container, so that the container can be displaced along the ground by a plurality of rollers. However, the container can also cope with it even without rollers and is carried, for example, by a pallet. Containers made of different materials are also considered, such as cardboard boxes or so-called grid boxes. In addition, the container can have different basic planes, such as rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal cross-sections. Similarly, the container does not necessarily have fixed side walls in the traditional sense. Therefore, for example, so-called big bags are also considered, which can be held in separate holders.

[0027] For a better understanding and to avoid unnecessary repetitions, the loading device and the method for loading containers are described below in common, without a corresponding detailed distinction between the method and the device. However, it is clear to a person skilled in the art from the context which features are particularly preferred in the method and the device, respectively.

[0028] In a particularly preferred first embodiment of the loading device, a plurality of finger elements are provided at at least one finger position. The package is thereby brought into contact more reliably with the at least one finger element of the corresponding finger position. Furthermore, the movement of the package can be influenced more accurately and more efficiently by means of the plurality of finger elements. At least two, preferably at least three, in particular at least four, further in particular at least five finger elements are provided. The exact number can depend on the size or diameter of the conveying channel. Furthermore, better handling of the package also avoids higher equipment costs.

[0029] However, it is preferred in principle that at least one hand-shaped element is provided at at least one finger-shaped position, which then in turn comprises at least several of the plurality of finger-shaped elements of the corresponding finger-shaped position. By combining a plurality of finger-shaped elements into the at least one hand-shaped element, the piece packages can also be handled more efficiently and more specifically in the conveying channel than with individual finger-shaped elements. The piece packages can thus be handled better and more protectively as required, wherein the principle of handling the piece packages by human hands can be adapted. Thus, the individual finger-shaped elements of the hand-shaped element can be moved substantially separately from each other and yet not completely independently of each other. For example, the finger-shaped elements can be bent and / or unfolded more or less, wherein the finger-shaped elements partially surround the adjacent piece packages due to the "fish fin effect", which can promote the protective braking of the piece packages during conveying through the conveying channel. The movement path or conveying path of the piece packages can be easily influenced here depending on the size and / or weight of the corresponding piece packages. This is similar to the behavior of a human hand.

[0030] The finger-shaped elements of the at least one hand-shaped element can be arranged to slightly spread out laterally from one another or at least extend substantially parallel to one another. This ensures a reliable contact between the finger-shaped elements and the package, which at the same time can lead to a favorable influence on the movement of the package through the conveying channel. Alternatively or additionally, the finger-shaped elements of the at least one hand-shaped element can be arranged to engage together with the palm-shaped element of the hand-shaped element. Not only relatively flexible finger-shaped elements but also relatively hard and stable palm-shaped elements can be used to influence the movement of the package.

[0031] In order to adjust at least one finger element of at least one finger position and / or at least one hand element of at least one finger position in a more targeted manner, the corresponding finger element and, alternatively or additionally, the corresponding hand element can be assigned a drive unit. The drive unit is then used to adjust the at least two side elements of the corresponding finger element relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the finger element from a bent position to an extended position and / or back. Thus, at least one finger element of at least one finger position can be adjusted in a targeted manner by means of the drive unit. Since in principle the finger elements can preferably be adjusted in a targeted manner, it is proposed in this case as required that all finger elements of at least one finger position and / or at least one hand element are assigned at least one drive unit. The drive unit is used to adjust the at least two side elements of the corresponding finger element relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the finger element from a bent position to an extended position and / or back.

[0032] If at least one finger position and / or at least one finger element of at least one hand element, and / or the hand element itself, is assigned a pressure sensor, this pressure sensor can be used to detect the pressure that the package is exerted on the finger element and / or the hand element. This pressure is related to the mechanical load acting on the package. In other words, the pressure sensor can be used to control the finger element in such a way that the load on the package remains small and does not damage the package. This can be achieved particularly effectively if the at least one pressure sensor is assigned to at least one side element of at least one finger element. Thus, the pressure on a side element can then be detected. The detection of the pressure can in principle also be used to influence the movement of the package in a targeted manner in a suitable but different manner depending on the size and weight of the package. The package can thus be transported through the transport channel in a very targeted manner.

[0033] In order to ensure that the piece packages come into contact with the finger elements in different finger positions during their transport through the conveying channel, it is proposed that the finger positions are arranged offset not only in the direction of gravity but also laterally or circumferentially. Thus, the extension of at least one finger element and / or hand element of one finger position in the direction of the associated free end can form an angle of between 45° and 315°, preferably between 90° and 270°, in particular between 135° and 225° with the extension of the finger element and / or hand element of another finger position in the direction of the associated free end. In order to determine the corresponding angle, the corresponding directions can be projected into a common plane, wherein it is proposed that this plane is a horizontal plane and / or a cross-sectional plane of the conveying channel, since this at least approximately takes into account the conveying direction of the piece packages along the conveying channel.

[0034] In a particularly preferred design of the conveying channel, at least the finger elements of the upper finger position and the lower finger position are arranged opposite to each other in the conveying channel. That is, the finger elements extend in opposite directions, so that the previously described angle is at least substantially 180°.

[0035] It can be further preferred that the finger-shaped elements of the finger-shaped positions that are respectively successive in the direction of gravity are arranged opposite to each other and extend in opposite directions. Therefore, in particular, the extensions of the finger-shaped elements and / or hand-shaped elements of all the finger-shaped positions that are successive in the direction of gravity enclose an angle between 45° and 315°, preferably between 90° and 270°, in particular between 135° and 225° in the direction of the corresponding free end. In order to determine the corresponding angles of the corresponding directions, it is also proposed that these corresponding directions are at least respectively projected into a common plane. For the reasons described, it is also proposed that this plane is a horizontal plane and / or a cross-sectional plane of the conveying channel. Alternatively or additionally, in this regard, these finger-shaped elements and / or these hand-shaped elements of the finger-shaped positions that are spaced apart from each other in the direction of gravity, in particular, that are successive to each other, are preferably arranged on at least substantially opposite inner sides of the conveying channel.

[0036] In order to prevent the individual packages from being damaged when they are transferred from the conveying channel into the container, it is proposed that the distance between the lower finger positions and / or the lowest finger positions above the lower exit of the conveying channel in the direction of gravity from the exit of the conveying channel is less than 2 m, preferably less than 1.5 m, in particular less than 1 m, and further in particular less than 0.5 m. The smaller this height, the smaller the effective drop height of the individual packages when they fall into the container. At the same time, a significant reduction in this distance would require excessive structural effort, for example, additional finger positions would be required so that the distance between the finger positions is not too large.

[0037] In order to simplify the structure and to convey the piece packages more conveniently through the conveying channel, the conveying channel, in particular the center line of the conveying channel, can be designed to be at least substantially straight. Therefore, the conveying of the piece packages will not be unintentionally stopped, thereby improving the efficiency of the conveying channel. Alternatively or additionally, the conveying channel, in particular the center line of the conveying channel, can have an angle (averaged as required) with the direction of gravity of less than 45°, preferably less than 30°, in particular less than 15°. The piece packages can then slide quickly through the conveying channel without being damaged here or when being transferred into the container.

[0038] In order to protect the individual packages during transport through the transport channel, it can also be provided that the transport channel is designed at least as an at least substantially closed channel, in particular as an at least substantially rectangular or circular cross section. Alternatively or additionally, the upper inlet of the transport channel can be provided with a funnel-shaped section that tapers along the transport channel, in particular in the direction of gravity and / or in the transport direction of the individual packages. This can simplify and speed up the transport of the individual packages without having to worry about significant damage to the individual packages.

[0039] In a particularly preferred first design of the method, the movement direction of the piece packages is turned at least by the finger-shaped elements of the upper finger-shaped position and / or the lower finger-shaped position. Since the piece packages are transported at least partially in the direction of gravity, it is proposed to turn the piece packages at least partially in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity. Here, at least partially transporting in the direction of gravity should be understood as transporting downward. That is, the movement direction of the piece packages has at least a movement component in the direction of gravity. Correspondingly, the turning of the movement of the piece packages should be understood as the change of the movement component of the piece packages in the horizontal direction of the movement of the piece packages. In addition, when at least one finger-shaped element and / or hand-shaped element of the at least one upper finger-shaped position turns the piece packages toward the at least one finger-shaped element and / or hand-shaped element of the at least one lower finger-shaped position, the piece packages can be transported particularly uniformly through the conveying channel. This then allows the movement direction of the piece packages to be properly manipulated by the finger-shaped elements of the two finger-shaped positions. In the case of further finger positions, the individual packages can be guided in the direction of gravity from a finger element of one finger position to a finger element of the respective next finger position.

[0040] In order to brake and / or deflect the packaged pieces, it can be proposed that for this purpose, the packaged pieces are at least partially captured by the at least one finger-shaped element and / or hand-shaped element of at least one finger-shaped element position. Here, the capture does not necessarily mean the complete capture of the packaged pieces, and the packaged pieces are at least stationary in the direction of gravity when captured. It is sufficient for the packaged pieces to be captured by the at least one finger-shaped element so that the speed of the packaged pieces in the direction of gravity is significantly reduced. It can thus be achieved as required that the speed of the packaged pieces is not significantly increased or at least substantially maintained as a whole when observed in the area of ​​the finger-shaped element position. That is, in this area of ​​the conveying channel, as required, the significant acceleration of the packaged pieces that may occur when the packaged pieces pass through the conveying channel without the finger-shaped element does not occur. However, alternatively or additionally, the packaged pieces can also be deflected and / or transferred along the conveying channel by adjusting the at least one finger-shaped element of the finger-shaped element position and / or the hand-shaped element of the at least one finger-shaped element position. The adjustment of the at least one finger element can be achieved here for the sake of simplicity by contact with the package itself, without the need for a corresponding control of the finger element. However, in order to control the movement of the package along the conveying path in a targeted manner, it can also be provided that the finger element is adjusted by means of the at least one corresponding drive mechanism. The adjustment can be carried out in such a way that the finger elements are supplementarily adjusted by contact with the package, if this is convenient. Whether the adjustment is carried out actively or passively can be understood as a plurality of finger elements and / or a hand element of the finger position adjusting downwards, upwards and / or spreading out the finger position.

[0041] The piece packages can be conveniently transferred from the conveying channel to the container to be loaded in such a way that the piece packages discharged from the outlet at the bottom of the conveying channel fall into the container (especially the rolling container) in the direction of gravity. The corresponding drop height should not be too large so as not to damage the piece packages. However, in principle, no further handling of the piece packages in this way is required.

[0042] In order to ensure that the piece packages are properly transferred from the conveying channel to the container, for the sake of simplicity, the lower section of the conveying channel assigned to the outlet of the lower part of the conveying channel can be kept at least temporarily in the position inserted into the container during the loading of the container. That is, the piece packages will not fall downward during the free fall at least in an empty container or a container that is only slightly filled, so that damage to the piece packages may be feared. However, in order to prevent the conveying channel from hindering the loading of the container with piece packages, it can be further proposed that the lower section of the conveying channel is at least temporarily and at least partially pulled out of the container during the loading of the container. That is, this pulling out does not necessarily take place during the entire loading period. It is sufficient to do it only within a certain time interval. In addition, the lower section of the conveying channel does not have to be completely pulled out of the container. This is particularly applicable in the following case: the container does not have to be loaded upward or should not be loaded to the top. According to the method, it is particularly simple in the described context to pull the lower section of the conveying channel out of the container step by step. This can be more easily realized in terms of control or regulation technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] The invention will be explained in detail below with the aid of the accompanying drawings which show only one exemplary embodiment.

[0044] In the attached figure:

[0045] Figure 1 A side view of a belt conveyor according to the invention and / or a finger element for carrying out the method according to the invention is shown,

[0046] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C Shown with the side elements adjusted relative to each other Figure 1 The working principle of the finger element,

[0047] Figure 3 Shown in the case of automatically adaptively adjusting the side Figure 1 The working principle of the finger element,

[0048] Figure 4 A belt conveyor according to the invention is shown in a schematic side view,

[0049] Figure 5A schematic side view shows a first loading device according to the invention during loading of a container, and

[0050] Figure 6 A second loading device according to the invention is shown in a schematic plan view from above. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] exist Figure 1 , a finger element 1 is shown which enables a self-adapting deformation. The finger element 1 has two side elements 2, 3 which, in the illustrated and preferred finger element 1, extend together from an end 4 of the finger element 1 to an opposite end 5 of the finger element 1. Furthermore, the side elements 2, 3 are constantly approaching one another in the longitudinal direction of the finger element 1. At the end 4 of the finger element 1, the side elements 2, 3 are spaced apart from one another, whereas at the other end 5 of the finger element 1, the side elements 2, 3 are directly connected to one another. This results in a finger element 1 which narrows in one direction and converges conically.

[0052] Connecting elements 6 are arranged between the side elements 2, 3 in a manner distributed over the length of the finger element 1, by means of which the side elements 2, 3 are connected to one another. In the illustrated and preferred finger element 1, the connecting elements 6 are connected to the side elements 2, 3 in an articulated manner at two opposite ends 7, 8 by means of articulated joints. Alternatively, the connecting elements 6 can be designed to be flexible. In the illustrated and preferred finger element 1, the connecting elements 6 are distributed at uniform intervals over the length of the finger element 1. However, this is not absolutely necessary. It is also not absolutely necessary that the connecting elements 6 extend parallel to one another, as in the illustrated finger element 1. However, it is preferred that the connecting elements 6 form an acute angle α with each of the side elements 2, 3 on one side and an obtuse angle β on the opposite side.

[0053] The side elements 2, 3 shown and preferred in this respect are designed to be flexible, so that the side elements 2, 3 can be bent about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction of the finger element 1, which is particularly useful in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C . For this purpose, it is convenient that the side elements 2, 3 are formed from a flexible plastic or, for example, rubber. The connecting piece 6 can also be formed from plastic or, for example, from metal, because the connecting piece 6 does not have to be flexible. Figure 2A The initial position is shown in Figure 1 The finger element 1 is shown in a starting position in which the finger element 1 is in an extended orientation, wherein the free ends of the side elements 2, 3 are arranged in a plane E. In the illustrated and in this respect preferred finger element 1, the side elements 2, 3 are designed at least approximately symmetrically to one another in this position.

[0054] Now if according to Figure 2B By displacing the end of the upper side element 2 from the plane E shown in the longitudinal direction of the finger element 1 relative to the initial position, the finger element 1 is bent downwards due to the connection of the side elements 2, 3 by means of a plurality of connecting elements 6. In this way, the end 5 of the finger element 1 shown on the right is adjusted downwards. Figure 2C The finger-shaped unit 1 is bent upwards, wherein if the free end of the lower side element 3 is displaced in the longitudinal direction of the finger-shaped element 1 from the plane E forward in the direction of the bent top of the finger-shaped element 1, the corresponding end 5 of the finger-shaped element 1 is adjusted upwards. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C It turns out that the struts 6 located between the side elements 2 , 3 tilt in different directions when the finger element 1 is bent.

[0055] In order to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C Similarly, the displacement of the side elements 2, 3 can be realized with a drive unit (not shown). Suitable drive units are known from the prior art. Suitable drive units can have, for example, at least one linear drive. Thus, at least one side element 2, 3 can be easily adjusted forward and back in the longitudinal direction of the finger element 1.

[0056] Not shown, more than two, for example at least three or four, side elements may be provided. For the sake of simplicity, these side elements are then arranged (especially evenly) distributed about the longitudinal axis of the finger-shaped element. The plurality of side elements can then converge (especially with free ends) to a common top of the finger-shaped element. In addition or alternatively, a connecting piece can preferably connect all side elements to each other. The side elements 2, 3 shown and preferred in this respect are designed as strips. However, it is also possible to realize a plate-shaped or rod-shaped design of the side elements.

[0057] However, the finger element 1 described can also be used in a different FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C The method shown is adjusted, especially according to Figure 3 (which shows the self-adaptive adjustment of the side elements 2, 3 of the finger element 1), while the piece package 9 is pressed against the upper side element 2 of the finger element and is locally bent upwards there. The corresponding side element 2 is locally displaced inwards relative to the finger element 1 in the direction of the pressure force F, which, due to the connection of the side elements 2, 3 by the connecting element 6, causes the side elements 2 to bend in the direction of the piece package 9 at other locations (in particular in the direction of the two mutually connected ends 10 of the side elements 2, 3 at the illustrated end 5 of the finger unit). As a result, the finger element 1 is partially engaged around the piece package 9.

[0058] exist Figure 4 The belt conveyor 11 is shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the supporting structure 12 of the belt conveyor 11 is composed of Figure 1 The conveyor belt 13 of the belt conveyor 11 runs around the support structure 12 and thus around the finger element 1. For this purpose, the belt conveyor 11 shown and preferred in this respect has a plurality of guides in the form of guide rollers 15, 16, 17. The guide rollers 15 are arranged at the ends 10 of the side elements 2, 3 that are connected to each other, wherein the guide rollers 15 are ultimately carried and supported by the corresponding ends 5 of the finger element 1. In addition, guides in the form of guide rollers 16, 17 are provided at the free ends of the side elements 2, 3, respectively. In addition, a drive 18 is provided, which can drive the conveyor belt 13 in different directions in the belt conveyor 13 shown and preferred in this respect. The drive 18 is realized by a drive roller 19, which can be adjusted as required in order to tension the conveyor belt 13, for example in the longitudinal direction of the finger element 1. In addition, in order to drive the conveyor belt 13 without slipping, a toothing can be provided on the conveyor belt 13, which meshes with the toothing of the drive roller 19. In contrast to the belt conveyor 11 which is illustrated and is preferred in this respect, the support structure 12 (around which the conveyor belt 13 runs) can also have further support structure components in addition to the finger elements 1 .

[0059] In the belt conveyor 11 shown and preferred in this respect, the conveyor belt 13 is guided along the side elements 2, 3, in particular so close that the conveyor belt 13 can be pressed against the side elements 2, 3 as required by the piece packages 9. The finger elements 1 can here be adjusted automatically or actively with respect to the corresponding piece packages 9, as already described. Figure 4 In the case of the finger element 1 of the belt conveyor 11 shown in FIG. 1 , the side elements 2, 3 can also be displaced relative to one another in the longitudinal direction of the finger element 1 in order to bend the finger element 1. By adjusting the end 5 of the finger element 1 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the finger element 1 in conjunction therewith, the conveyor belt 13 and its extension around the finger element 1 are also adjusted. If the conveyor belt 13 is to be guided along the side elements 2, 3 at a small distance from them even in the case of a bending of the finger element 1, further devices (not shown) must be provided as required for positioning the conveyor belt 13 between the guide rollers 15, 16, 17 in a manner adjacent to the side elements 2, 3 or at least one of the side elements 2, 3.

[0060] exist Figure 52 shows a loading device 20 for loading a container 21 with piece packages 22, and a container 21 which is a rolling container is loaded with the piece packages 22 by means of the loading device 20. The rolling container has rollers 23 so that the container 21 can be displaced. In addition, the container 21 is open upwards and forwards. During the period when the upper end 24 in the container 21 cannot be closed, strips 25 can be provided on one side of the container 21, which can span the front side 26 of the container 21 to prevent the piece packages 22 from accidentally falling out. For the sake of greater clarity, the strips 25 are Figure 5 In the container 21, there is no crossing via the front side 26 to the opposite side, although this may in principle be convenient during loading of the container 21. Instead of the strips 25, it is also possible to provide at least one door or at least one flap or at least one curtain, by means of which the front side 26 can be closed in such a way that it is prevented that the individual packages 22 fall out. In addition, as already mentioned at the outset, other containers can also be used, which can, however, not necessarily be designed as rolling containers.

[0061] The loading device 20 shown and preferred in this respect comprises a conveying channel 27, which is designed in the form of a pipe and therefore has a perfectly circular cross section. However, this is not a mandatory requirement. For example, a rectangular, square or elliptical cross section can also be provided. In addition, in the loading device 20 shown and preferred in this respect, a funnel-shaped section 28 that gradually narrows downward is provided in the upper section of the conveying channel 27. The upper end of the upper section forms an inlet 29 for conveying piece packages 22 to the conveying channel 27. When loading the container 21 with piece packages 22, in the shown and preferred embodiment of the loading device 20, the lower section 30 of the conveying channel 27 is also located in the container 21 to be loaded, which has the piece packages 22 only in the area of ​​the bottom plate 31. An outlet 32 ​​for the piece packages 22 is provided at the lower end of the lower section 30 of the conveying channel 27, which is used to convey the piece packages 22 into the container 21. As the container 21 is filled with piece packages 22, the lower section 30 of the conveying channel 27 can be pulled upward (especially stepwise) and thus increasingly out of the container 21. If necessary, the lower section 30 of the conveying channel 27 is pulled completely out of the container 21 when the last piece package 22 is inserted or when the container 21 is almost full.

[0062] In the illustrated and in this respect preferred loading device 20, the conveying channel 27 is oriented vertically. Therefore, the center line 33 of the conveying channel 27 is arranged at least approximately parallel to the direction of gravity. This has been shown to save space, but is by no means absolutely necessary. The center line 33 can, for example, be inclined relative to the direction of gravity. In principle, it is less preferred, but it is conceivable that the center line 33 of the conveying channel 27 can also extend back and forth from one side to the other in an almost zigzag manner, in particular in the conveying direction of the package 22.

[0063] Between the inlet 29 of the conveying channel 27 for conveying the individual packages 22 and the outlet 32 ​​of the conveying channel 27 for discharging the individual packages 22 in the direction of the container 21, three finger positions 34, 35, 36 are arranged in the direction of gravity, at which a plurality of finger elements 37 are arranged in each case. Here, five finger elements 37 are arranged in each case at the finger positions 34, 35, 36. However, it is also possible to provide only one finger element 37 in each case or, for example, two, three or four finger elements 37. It is also possible to envisage any other number of finger elements 37, such as it is also conceivable that the number of finger elements 37 changes from the finger position 34, 35, 36 to the finger position 34, 35, 36, if this proves to be convenient. If the conveying channel 37 gradually narrows from its inlet 29 to its outlet 32, this may be the case in some cases. Then there is less and less space downwards for the finger elements 37.

[0064] In the loading device 20 shown and preferred in this respect, the finger elements 37 are not arranged or fixed directly on the wall of the conveying channel 27, although this is possible in principle. Instead, the finger elements 37 of the finger positions 34, 35, 36 are held together on a palm-shaped element 38, wherein the palm-shaped element 38 can be arranged as required so that the palm-shaped element 38 can be adjusted together with the associated finger element 37 at a certain height and / or to one side. However, this is not necessary. Thus, the finger elements 37 together with the palm-shaped element 38 respectively produce a hand-shaped element 44, which can imitate a human hand in terms of function.

[0065] In order to load the container 21, the package 22 that can be transported by means of a conveying device is automatically or manually thrown into the upper section of the conveying channel 27 and in this way the package is delivered to the upper inlet 29 of the conveying channel 27. The conveying device is preferably a belt conveyor, in particular a telescopic belt conveyor or a so-called sorting device. The latter conveyor can transport the package 22 in a sorted manner and throw it into the conveying channel 27 one after another without the operator having to take responsibility. The package 22 delivered to the inlet 29 of the conveying channel 27 is first initially centered in the upper funnel-shaped section 28 of the conveying channel 27 and then, as required, comes into contact with the finger element 37 of the hand element 44 of the uppermost finger position 34.

[0066] In the embodiment shown and preferred in this respect, the finger element 37 of the uppermost finger position 34 is slightly bent upwards by the associated drive unit 40, so that the free end of the finger element 37 is slightly raised. This simulates a slightly open human hand, whose palm side is pointing upwards. The package 22 is brought into contact with the hand element 44 which has been pre-adjusted in this way, wherein the package 22 is captured to a certain extent. Since the package 22 has weight, the finger element 37 is generally adjusted downwards, wherein the finger element 37 can be further bent due to the "fin effect". This bending causes the finger tip to be adjusted upwards relative to the finger element 37 itself, while the finger element 37 can be adjusted downwards in general in order to relieve the weight of the package 22. In this way, the package 22 is not only braked, but also diverted in its direction of movement. In this case, this diversion is carried out towards the hand element 44 of the finger position 35 that follows in the gravity direction.

[0067] However, it is not absolutely necessary in principle for the finger elements 37 of the hand elements 44 to be adjusted by the drive unit 40. For example, in the case where the finger elements 37 are oriented in a suitable manner in the rest position in the conveying channel 27 and are adapted in their structure to the size and weight of the package 22, a corresponding drive unit 40 may not be required. In this case, all hand elements 44 of the conveying channel 27 can be provided with a drive unit 40, or even no drive unit is sufficient. It can also be proposed that some hand elements 44 of the conveying channel 27 are assigned to the drive unit 40, while other hand elements are not assigned to this drive unit. In addition, not all finger positions 34, 35, 36 must have a hand element 44. It is sufficient, as required, for individual or even all finger positions 34, 35, 36 to have only one finger element 37 or a plurality of finger elements 37. In the conveying channel 27 shown and preferred in this respect, however, the finger positions 34 , 35 , 36 are equipped with hand elements 44 , as has already been described above for the uppermost finger position 34 .

[0068] After the package 22 has been braked or diverted to one side by the hand element 44 of the uppermost finger position 34, the package 22 falls in the direction of the next, middle finger position 35, wherein the speed of the package 22 increases in free fall. If the middle finger position 35 is reached, the package 22 comes into contact with the hand element 44 of the middle finger position 35 and is captured and diverted to a certain extent as for the hand element 35 of the uppermost finger position 34, in particular in the direction of the lowermost finger position 36. The package 22 is accelerated again, for example in the direction of gravity, until the package 22 reaches the lowermost finger position 36. However, the hand element 44 of the lowermost finger position 36 then brakes the package 22 as described, so that the package 22 then falls at a moderate speed through the outlet 32 ​​of the conveying channel 27 into the container 21. The package 22 thus arrives in the container 21 sufficiently gently without causing damage to the package 22. For this purpose, in the illustrated and preferred conveying channel 27, the lowest finger position 36 is spaced no more than 1 m from the outlet 32 ​​of the conveying channel 27 in the direction of gravity.

[0069] The specific movement paths along which the piece packages 22 follow along the conveying channel 27 depend on the size and weight of the piece packages 22. That is, the movement path for a single piece package 22 can be different from the movement path shown. It is also possible that the following situation occurs, that is, especially small, but heavier piece packages 22 do not come into contact with all hand-shaped elements 44 of the conveying channel 27. However, this is tolerable as long as these piece packages 22 are sufficiently braked on their path through the conveying channel 27 so that the piece packages 22 fall into the container 21 slowly enough. In other cases, the pre-adjustment of the finger-shaped element 37 may have to be adjusted by the drive unit 40 or the hand-shaped element 44 itself can be adjusted, that is, for example, a longer and harder hand-shaped element 44 is replaced.

[0070] exist Figure 6 An alternative loading device 41 is shown in a schematic top view from above. The conveying channel 42 has a perfect circular cross section and the center line 43 of the conveying channel 42 extends perpendicularly to the plane of the illustration. Figure 5 Unlike in the case of the conveying channel 27 of FIG. 42 , the hand elements 44 of the finger position 45 in the conveying channel 42 are not arranged opposite one another, but are arranged laterally offset from one another to a small extent. Nevertheless, the hand elements 44 of the finger position 45 are each arranged at a certain vertical spacing relative to one another. Figure 6 The conveying channel 42 shown in FIG. 4 has three or more finger positions 45. If more than three finger positions 45 are provided, the hand elements 44 of the plurality of finger positions 45 are arranged in a Figure 6 are set to be equal to each other in the views.

[0071] For each of the hand-shaped elements 44 shown, a certain direction 46, 47, 48 can be defined, which takes into account the direction of the finger-shaped element 49 of the hand-shaped element 44 towards its free end and combines to form a common direction of the finger-shaped elements 49 of the corresponding hand-shaped element 44. These directions 46, 47, 48 of the hand-shaped elements 44 that follow one another can now be projected into a section plane E of the conveying channel 27, which here extends horizontally and parallel to the plane of the illustration or perpendicular to the center line 43. In this projection, the previously described directions 46, 47, 48 are combined into a common direction of the finger-shaped elements 49 of the corresponding hand-shaped element 44.

[0072] 48 in the illustrated and preferred embodiment encloses an angle W of approximately 120°. However, other angles are also conceivable in principle, wherein it is generally preferred that the hand-shaped elements 44 are arranged at least approximately evenly distributed over the circumference of the conveying channel 42 .

[0073] Description of Reference Numerals

[0074] 1 Finger element

[0075] 2, 3 Side elements

[0076] 4, 5 Ends of finger elements

[0077] 6 Connectors

[0078] 7, 8 End of the connector

[0079] 9 Package

[0080] 10 end

[0081] 11 Belt conveyor

[0082] 12 Load-bearing structure

[0083] 13. Conveyor Belt

[0084] 15 Guide roller

[0085] 16 Guide roller

[0086] 17 Guide roller

[0087] 18 Driver

[0088] 19 Drive roller

[0089] 20 Loading equipment

[0090] 21 Container

[0091] 22 Packages

[0092] 23 Roller

[0093] 24 end

[0094] 25 strips

[0095] 26 Front

[0096] 27 Conveyor Channel

[0097] 28 Funnel-shaped segment

[0098] 29 Entrance

[0099] 30 Lower section

[0100] 31 Base Plate

[0101] 32 Exit

[0102] 33 Center Line

[0103] 34-36 Finger Position

[0104] 37 Finger element

[0105] 38 Palm-shaped element

[0106] 40 Drivers

[0107] 41 Loading equipment

[0108] 42 conveying channel

[0109] 43 Center Line

[0110] 44 Hand Component

[0111] 45 Finger position

[0112] 46-48 Direction

[0113] 49 Finger element

[0114] E Cutting plane

[0115] W angle

Claims

1. A loading device (20) for sequentially loading a plurality of containers (21) with piece packages, wherein: The containers are independent of the loading device, which comprises a conveying channel (27) for conveying the packaged packages (22) in sequence toward one of the containers (21), wherein the conveying channel (27) has an upper entrance (29) for conveying the packaged packages (22) to the conveying channel (27), and a lower exit (32) for conveying the packaged packages (22) to the container (21), wherein at least one upper finger-shaped position (34, 35) having at least one finger-shaped element (49) and at least one lower finger-shaped position (35, 36) having at least one finger-shaped element (49) are arranged in the conveying channel (27), wherein the at least one finger-shaped element (49) of the upper finger-shaped position (34, 35) and the lower finger-shaped position (35, 36) respectively have a common end portion of the finger-shaped element (49). At least two flexible side elements (2, 3) extending to opposite ends of the finger-shaped element (49), wherein the at least two flexible side elements (2, 3) of the finger-shaped elements (49) are flexibly connected to each other by a plurality of connecting elements (6), so that the finger-shaped elements (49) can be adjusted from at least one bent position to at least one extended position and back, and the extension of the at least one finger-shaped element (49) and / or the hand-shaped element (44) of one of the finger-shaped element positions (34, 35, 36) toward the corresponding free end forms an angle (W) between 45° and 315° with the extension of the finger-shaped element (49) and / or the hand-shaped element (44) of the other finger-shaped element position (34, 35, 36) toward the corresponding free end in a projection onto the horizontal plane and / or the cross-sectional plane (E) of the conveying channel (27).

2. The loading device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that A plurality of finger elements (49) are arranged on at least one finger position (34, 35, 36).

3. The loading device according to claim 2, It is characterized in that At least one hand element (44) is arranged at at least one finger position (34, 35, 36), and the at least one hand element includes at least some of the plurality of finger elements (49) of the corresponding finger position (34, 35, 36).

4. The loading device according to claim 3, It is characterized in that The finger-shaped elements (49) of the at least one hand-shaped element (44) are arranged to spread out laterally or extend parallel to each other; and / or the finger-shaped elements (49) of the at least one hand-shaped element (44) are configured to engage together with the palm-shaped element (38) of the hand-shaped element (44).

5. The loading device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that At least one finger element (49) of at least one finger position (34, 35, 36) and / or at least one hand element (44) of at least one finger position (34, 35, 36) is assigned at least one drive unit (40) for adjusting the at least two side elements (2, 3) of the corresponding finger element (49) relative to each other along the longitudinal direction of the finger element (49) from a bent position to an extended position and / or back.

6. The loading device according to claim 5, It is characterized in that At least one finger position (34, 35, 36) and / or all finger elements (49) of at least one hand element (44) are assigned at least one drive unit (40) for adjusting the at least two side elements (2, 3) of the corresponding finger element (49) relative to each other along the longitudinal direction of the finger element (49) from a bent position to an extended position and / or back.

7. The loading device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that At least one finger-shaped position (34, 35, 36) and / or at least one finger-shaped element (49) of at least one hand-shaped element (44) is assigned at least one pressure sensor, which is used to detect the pressure applied to the side element (2, 3), the finger-shaped element (49) and / or the hand-shaped element (44).

8. The loading device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that An extension of at least one finger element (49) and / or hand element (44) of one finger position (34, 35, 36) toward the corresponding free end forms an angle (W) between 90° and 270° with an extension of the finger element (49) and / or hand element (44) of another finger position (34, 35, 36) toward the corresponding free end in a projection onto a horizontal plane and / or a sectional plane (E) of the conveying channel (27).

9. The loading device according to claim 8, It is characterized in that The extensions of the finger-shaped elements (49) and / or hand-shaped elements (44) of the finger-shaped positions (34, 35, 36) which are successive in the direction of gravity, in the direction of the corresponding free ends, enclose an angle (W) between 45° and 315° in a projection onto a horizontal plane and / or a cross-sectional plane (E) of the conveying channel (27).

10. The loading device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The finger elements (49) and / or the hand elements (44) of finger positions (34, 35, 36) spaced apart from one another in the direction of gravity are arranged on opposite inner sides of the conveying channel (27).

11. The loading device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The lower and / or lowermost finger position (35, 36) of the conveying channel (27) is spaced less than 2 m from the outlet (32) of the conveying channel (27) in the direction of gravity above the lower outlet (32) of the conveying channel (27).

12. The loading device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The conveying channel (27) is designed to be straight; and / or the conveying channel (27) has an angle with the gravity direction that is less than 45°.

13. The loading device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The conveying channel (27) is designed as a closed channel; and / or an upper inlet (29) of the conveying channel (27) is provided with a funnel-shaped section (28) which gradually narrows along the conveying channel (27).

14. A method for successively loading a plurality of containers (21) with unit packages (22) by means of a loading device (20) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: These containers are independent of the loading equipment. - wherein the packaged packages (22) are introduced successively into the upper inlet (29) of the conveying channel (27), - wherein the package pieces (22) introduced into the inlet (29) of the conveying channel (27) are brought into contact with the at least one finger element (49) of the upper finger position (34, 35) and are braked by the at least one finger element (49), - wherein the packaged pieces (22) braked by the at least one finger element (49) of the upper finger position (34, 35) are brought into contact with the at least one finger element (49) of the lower finger position (35, 36) and are braked by the at least one finger element (49), and - wherein the packaged packages (22) braked by the at least one finger element (49) of the lower finger position (35, 36) leave the conveying channel (27) through the lower outlet (32) of the conveying channel (27) into a container among the plurality of containers (21).

15. The method according to claim 14, - wherein the movement direction of the package pieces (22) is at least partially diverted in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity by the finger elements (49) of the upper finger position (34, 35) and / or the lower finger position (35, 36).

16. The method according to claim 15, -Wherein, the packaged goods (22) are turned in the direction of at least one finger-shaped element (49) and / or at least one hand-shaped element (44) of at least one upper finger-shaped position (34, 35).

17. The method according to claim 14 or 15, - wherein the package pieces (22) are braked and / or diverted by partial capture by the at least one finger element (49) and / or hand element (44) of the at least one finger position (34, 35, 36); - wherein the packaged packages (22) are diverted and / or transferred along the conveying channel (27) by adjusting the finger position (34, 35, 36) and / or the at least one finger element (49) of the hand element (44) downwardly and / or upwardly, and / or by unfolding a plurality of finger elements (49) of the finger position (34, 35, 36) and / or the hand element (44) of the finger position (34, 35, 36); and / or - wherein the package (22) discharged from the outlet (32) at the bottom of the conveying channel (27) is caused to fall into the container (21) in the direction of gravity.

18. The method according to claim 14, - wherein a lower section (30) of the conveying channel (27) which is assigned to a lower outlet (32) of the conveying channel (27) is at least temporarily held in a position inserted into the container (21) during loading of the container (21).

19. The method according to claim 18, - during the loading of the container (21), the lower section (30) of the conveying channel (27) is at least temporarily and at least partially pulled out of the container (21).

Images