Clamping device and method for conveying container

Abstract

The invention relates in particular to a gripper device (10) for holding containers (12) for a container handling system. The gripper device (10) comprises a first gripper arm pair (14) and a second gripper arm pair (16), which are arranged one above the other for holding the containers (12) simultaneously and can be pivoted independently of one another, preferably coaxially. The gripper device (10) can advantageously hold containers (12) of different external shapes and / or containers (12) of different external dimensions, thereby increasing process reliability and product quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a clamping device for holding a container and a method for conveying a container. Background Art

[0002] In container handling equipment for the manufacture, cleaning, filling, sealing, etc. of containers, the containers may be held by a gripper or clamping device and conveyed through the equipment.

[0003] For example, DE 10 2005 014 838 A1 discloses a gripper for holding vessels in a vessel transport machine, which has two gripper arms that can be moved relative to each other to open and close. Each gripper arm has a gripper arm, and at least one gripper arm has a counter arm. In order to simplify the structure, wherein the vessel can continue to be accurately centered and absorb overpressure, the gripper arm is designed in one piece with the gripper arm and the counter arm, so that the gripper arm is stable in shape and the counter arm is elastic in shape.

[0004] Using conventional solutions, it is not possible to grip containers (e.g. bottles) of different diameters. Indented, bulged, conical, etc. containers can only be held with great effort in the non-cylindrical area or not at all by the multi-clamp. As a result, shaped bottles are gripped very low or suffer intentional misgripping, which has a significant impact on product quality and process reliability. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved technology for holding containers. Preferably, the technology should also be able to hold containers whose outer shell surfaces have sections of different shapes and / or sizes in a process-reliable and non-destructive manner.

[0006] This object is achieved by the following features of the technical solution. Advantageous improvements are described in the description.

[0007] One aspect relates to a gripper device (e.g. a double gripper device, a two-layer gripper device or a multiple gripper device) for holding containers in a container handling device (e.g. for the production, cleaning, testing, filling, closing, labeling, printing and / or packaging of containers for liquid media, preferably beverages or liquid foods). The gripper device has a first (e.g. lower or upper) gripper arm pair and a second (e.g. upper or lower) gripper arm pair, which are arranged (e.g. directly) one above the other for simultaneous holding of the containers and can be pivoted independently of one another (e.g. separately) (e.g. between an open position and a closed position) preferably coaxially (and / or about a preferably common pivot axis).

[0008] Advantageously, the two gripper arm pairs have additional degrees of freedom compared to conventional solutions due to the fact that they can be pivoted independently of one another. Advantageously, the gripper device enables containers of different external shapes and / or containers of different external dimensions to be held. Even with complex container shapes, the number of incorrect gripping can be reduced. This ultimately ensures a higher product quality and a higher process reliability. Overall, a higher flexibility can be achieved for the different shapes and sizes of containers that can be held by the gripper device and can therefore be processed in the container processing device. The solution also allows the handling of containers with a "normal" container shape (e.g. a cylindrical container body). This makes it possible, for example, to carry out a rapid format change between cylindrical containers and shaped containers without having to change the gripper device on the conveyor device. Particularly preferred embodiments are described below, by which the advantages mentioned can be achieved in an advantageous and particularly effective manner.

[0009] For example, the container can be designed as a bottle, can, barrel, carton, flask, etc. For example, the container can have a concave, convex, conical, segmented tapering, segmented expanding or generally contoured (eg, shell or perimeter) shape.

[0010] Preferably, the container may have a first peripheral section and a second peripheral section which are offset from each other with reference to a vertical axis of the container and differ from each other in size (e.g., cross-sectional size or diameter) and / or shape. For example, the container may be held by or by the first pair of gripper arms at the first peripheral section, and the container may be held by or by the second pair of gripper arms at the second peripheral section.

[0011] Preferably, the first pair of clamp arms may extend in a first horizontal plane and the second pair of clamp arms may extend in a second horizontal plane spaced apart from the first horizontal plane.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first gripper arm pair has two first gripper arms, preferably coupled to each other (e.g. by means of a first trigger mechanism), for resting on the container, which first gripper arms can be pivoted in opposite directions to each other (e.g. around a swivel pin of the gripper device). Alternatively or additionally, the second gripper arm pair has two second gripper arms, preferably coupled to each other (e.g. by means of a second trigger mechanism), for resting on the container, which second gripper arms can be pivoted in opposite directions to each other and independently of the two first gripper arms (e.g. around a further swivel pin of the gripper device), preferably coaxially with the two first gripper arms.

[0013] It is possible that the two first gripper arms are configured separately from each other or are configured as one piece with each other.Alternatively or additionally, the two second gripper arms can be configured separately from each other or are configured as one piece with each other.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first pair of gripper arms and the second pair of gripper arms may be pivotable independently of one another so that the second pair of gripper arms may hold differently sized and / or differently shaped peripheral sections of the container while the first pair of gripper arms holds the container.

[0015] In another embodiment, the first pair of clamp arms and the second pair of clamp arms can be pivoted independently of each other, so that the first pair of clamp arms, preferably caused by pre-tensioning, continues to pivot inward (or close) until it rests on the container, even if the inward pivoting of the second pair of clamp arms, preferably caused by pre-tensioning, has already ended due to the resting on the container.

[0016] In another embodiment, the first pair of gripper arms and the second pair of gripper arms can be pivoted independently of one another, so that the first pair of gripper arms is pivoted open (or opened), preferably by actuation, separately from the second pair of gripper arms, preferably by actuation.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first clamp arm pair and the second clamp arm pair are identically constructed and / or are designed to be substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to a horizontal plane. Thus, for example, the manufacturing cost of the clamp device can be advantageously reduced and / or the installation of the clamp device can be facilitated.

[0018] In another embodiment, the clamping device further comprises a preferably substantially block-shaped and / or elongated clamping frame, which (for example on at least one pivot pin of the clamping frame) preferably carries the first clamping arm pair and the second clamping arm pair pivotably at mutually opposite end regions of the clamping frame (for example at the upper end region and the lower end region of the clamping frame with reference to the vertical axis of the clamping device). Thus, a compact and stable clamping device can be advantageously provided, which can be mounted on the conveying device in a simple manner as a whole, for example only by means of the clamping frame.

[0019] In another embodiment, the clamping device further comprises a first trigger mechanism, which is operatively connected to the first clamping arm pair and is used to cause the first clamping arm pair to pivot (e.g. open). Alternatively or additionally, the clamping device further comprises a second trigger mechanism, which is preferably separated from the first trigger mechanism and is operatively connected to the second clamping arm pair and is used to cause the second clamping arm pair to pivot (e.g. open). Advantageously, the trigger mechanism can be used to cause, for example, the opening or swinging of the clamping arm pair, which can also be started with a time delay compared to the clamping arm pair or the trigger mechanism.

[0020] In another embodiment, the first trigger mechanism and the second trigger mechanism are arranged one above the other (for example, directly), and / or are identically constructed and / or are constructed substantially mirror-symmetrically with respect to a horizontal plane, and / or are carried by a clamp frame of the clamp device, and / or are designed as roller controllers, and / or are arranged between the first clamp arm pair and the second clamp arm pair. As a result, the manufacturing cost of the trigger mechanism can be advantageously reduced, and the installation of the clamp device can be simplified. In addition, a compact construction mode and / or reliable control of the trigger mechanism can be advantageously achieved.

[0021] In another embodiment, at least one of the first trigger mechanism and the second trigger mechanism has two pivot arms. The two pivot arms are preferably arranged in a V-shape (or scissor-like) and / or can be displaced back and forth in response to a mechanical input on the respective trigger mechanism and / or can be pivotally mounted on each clamp arm of the respective clamp arm pair in active connection (for example, in each case in a middle section of the clamp arm with reference to the clamp arm longitudinal axis).

[0022] In one design variant, the two pivot arms are pivotably, preferably coaxially, mounted on a displaceable transmission element. Preferably, the transmission element can be displaceably mounted in the clamping frame of the clamping device (e.g. in a sliding bearing bushing and / or in a through hole (e.g. between the front and rear sides of the clamping frame)) and / or is rod-shaped and / or carries an input element, preferably a rotatable roller or a sliding shoe (e.g. at the end and / or rear side and / or the side facing away from the container of the clamping device or of the clamping frame).

[0023] In another design variant, the clamping device also has a first prestressing element, preferably a helical spring, which prestresses the first pair of clamping arms, preferably for closing. Alternatively or additionally, the clamping device also has a second prestressing element, preferably a helical spring, which prestresses the second pair of clamping arms, preferably for closing. Preferably, the first prestressing element and the second prestressing element can be arranged one above the other and / or extend in parallel. Thus, closing of the pair of clamping arms can be advantageously brought about without a separate actuation being required for this purpose. In addition, a holding force or clamping force can be generated to hold the container.

[0024] For example, the first and / or second preload component may be designed as an elastic component such as a spring (eg a spiral spring or a U-shaped spring) or a rubber piece, or may be designed as a magnet.

[0025] In another design variant, at least one of the first pretensioning component and the second pretensioning component is supported on a clamping frame of the clamping device (for example, on the rear side of the clamping frame) and / or on an actuating mechanism of the clamping device (for example, on a transmission component of the actuating mechanism). Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the first pretensioning component and the second pretensioning component surrounds (for example, coaxially) a section of the actuating mechanism of the clamping device (for example, the transmission component) and / or is arranged on a side of the clamping frame of the clamping device facing away from the container.

[0026] Another aspect relates to a (for example linear or carousel) conveying device, preferably a rotatable gripper star, for containers of a container handling system. The conveying device has at least one gripper device as disclosed herein.

[0027] It is possible, as disclosed here, to include a plurality of gripper devices, which are distributed around the circumference of the conveying device, for example, or are arranged along the conveying device.

[0028] For example, the conveying device can be integrated into a container processing device (e.g. for the production, cleaning, testing, filling, closing, labeling, printing and / or packaging of containers for fluid media, preferably beverages or fluid foods), or be constructed and / or arranged as a pure conveying device, e.g. for conveying containers from / to a container processing device.

[0029] In one embodiment, the conveying device has a common guide contour, which is designed to pivot the first and second gripper arm pairs in an operative connection with the first and second gripper arm pairs, preferably for opening the first and second gripper arm pairs. Preferably, the first and second gripper arm pairs can thus be actuated in a simple manner by a single guide contour.

[0030] Another aspect relates to a method for conveying a container, preferably by means of a gripper device as disclosed herein or by means of a conveying device as disclosed herein. The container has a first peripheral section and a second peripheral section, which are offset from one another with respect to a vertical axis of the container and differ from one another in size (e.g. cross-sectional size or diameter) and / or shape. The method comprises, preferably by prestressing, causing a first pair of gripper arms and a second pair of gripper arms, which are arranged one above another, to pivot (e.g. separately) independently of one another (e.g. close or inwards) (e.g. about a preferably common pivot axis) until (e.g. on both sides, respectively) (e.g. successively) the first pair of gripper arms rests on the first peripheral section and the second pair of gripper arms rests on the second peripheral section, so that the container is held simultaneously by the first pair of gripper arms and the second pair of gripper arms. Preferably, the method can be used to achieve the same advantages as already described here for the gripper device.

[0031] For example, the method may further include moving the first and second gripper arm pairs together with the held container to move the container, such as in a circular path (e.g., using a turntable such as a gripper star) and / or along a straight line (e.g., using a linear conveyor).

[0032] In one embodiment, the method further comprises pivoting the first pair of gripper arms and the second pair of gripper arms independently of each other (e.g. separately) (e.g. about a preferably common pivot axis) away from the container to release the container, preferably causing the pivoting by independently actuating the first pair of gripper arms and the second pair of gripper arms, particularly preferably by the same guide contour (e.g. a control cam or a guide cam).

[0033] The above-described preferred embodiments and features of the present invention can be combined with one another as desired. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Other details and advantages of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a clamp device with a container retained therein according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary clamping device;

[0037] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a delivery device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 4 is a plan view of an exemplary delivery device; and

[0039] Figure 5 is a bottom view of an exemplary delivery device.

[0040] The embodiments shown in these figures are at least partially identical, so similar or identical parts are marked with the same reference numerals, and when explaining them, reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or figures to avoid repetition. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Figure 1 and 2 The clamp device 10 is shown in different views. The clamp device 10 holds a container 12. The container 12 preferably has a container body, which has different outer peripheries along its length and height. The container 12 can preferably be designed as a so-called special-shaped container. Nevertheless, the container 12 can still be firmly held by the clamp device 10, as exemplarily described below.

[0042] The gripper device 10 has a first gripper arm pair 14 and a second gripper arm pair 16. The gripper device 10 may optionally have a gripper frame 18, a first trigger mechanism 20 and / or a second trigger mechanism 22.

[0043] The clamp device 10 is preferably designed as a double clamp device with two clamp arm pairs 14, 16. However, the clamp device can also have other clamp arm pairs (not shown). Generally, the clamp device 10 can be designed as a multi-clamp device with multiple clamp arm pairs 14, 16.

[0044] The first clamp arm pair 14 may have two first clamp arms 24, 26. The second clamp arm pair 16 may have two second clamp arms 28, 30. The clamp arms 24 and 26 (or 28 and 30) may be constructed separately, such as Figure 1 and 2 As shown in . The clamp arms 24 and 26 (or 28 and 30) can be constructed as an integral piece with each other.

[0045] Preferably, the second pair of gripper arms 16 can be designed structurally and / or functionally substantially identically to the first pair of gripper arms 14. The first pair of gripper arms 14 and the second pair of gripper arms 16 are preferably configured substantially mirror-symmetrically with respect to a central longitudinal plane or a horizontal plane (in the installed state) of the gripper device 10. The central longitudinal plane divides the gripper device 10 at half height and extends parallel to the longitudinal axes L1, L2 of the gripper arm pairs 14, 16.

[0046] The gripper arm pairs 14, 16 are each pivotably mounted. The pivotable mounting is preferably arranged at the end of the gripper arm pairs 14, 16 opposite the container 12, or at the free end of the gripper arm pairs 14, 16. The gripper arm pairs 14, 16 can preferably pivot coaxially with each other, or can pivot about a common pivot axis S.

[0047] Specifically, the first gripper arms 24, 26 are preferably pivotable in opposite directions from each other. The second gripper arms 28, 30 can be pivoted in opposite directions from each other. To hold the container 12, the first gripper arms 24, 26 can be pivoted toward each other until they rest on the container 12, and the second gripper arms 28, 30 can be pivoted toward each other until they rest on the container 12. To release the container 12, the first gripper arms 24, 26 can be pivoted away from each other, and the second gripper arms 28, 30 can be pivoted away from each other.

[0048] The first and second gripper arm pairs 14, 16 are arranged to simultaneously hold the same container 12. The first and second gripper arm pairs 14, 16 are arranged, for example, vertically offset from each other relative to the vertical axis H of the container 12. For example, the second gripper arm pair 16 (the two second gripper arms 28, 30) is arranged above the first gripper arm pair 14 (the two first gripper arms 24, 26), as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 or vice versa.

[0049] The first pair of gripper arms 14 can hold the container 12 at the first peripheral section or casing section 12A. The second pair of gripper arms 16 can hold the container 12 at the second peripheral section or casing section 12B. The peripheral sections 12A, 12B are preferably respectively circumferential or self-enclosed. The peripheral sections 12A, 12B are arranged offset from each other relative to the vertical axis H of the container 12. For example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second peripheral section 12B is arranged above the first peripheral section 12A, or vice versa.

[0050] The peripheral segments 12A and 12B may differ from each other in shape and / or size or length. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the peripheral segments 12A and 12B are respectively identical in shape, i.e., circular in cross section, or truncated cone in vertical axis H. The peripheral segments 12A and 12B differ in size. The circumference and diameter of the second peripheral segment 12B are smaller than the circumference and diameter of the first peripheral segment 12A.

[0051] The container 12 can be held at the front section of the gripper arm pair 14, 16 or at the section facing the container 12. Specifically, the container 12 can be held between the free ends of the first gripper arms 24, 26 and between the free ends of the second gripper arms 28, 30. The first gripper arms 24, 26 and the second gripper arms 28, 30 can clamp the container 12 at their free ends. The first gripper arms 24, 26 and the second gripper arms 28, 30 can clamp the container 12 between their free ends when a holding force is applied. The holding force can be generated, for example, by a preload applied to the first gripper arm pair 14 and a preload applied to the second gripper arm pair 16.

[0052] The two gripper arm pairs 14, 16 can be pivoted independently or separately from each other. The first gripper arm pair 14 can be pivoted without the second gripper arm pair 16 being pivoted together, and vice versa. The pivoting movement of the first gripper arm pair 14 against the second peripheral section 12B does not affect the pivoting movement of the first gripper arm pair 14 against the first peripheral section 12A, and vice versa. For example, the pivoting movement of the second gripper arm pair 16 against the first peripheral section 12A can continue during the period when the first gripper arm pair 14 has been against the first peripheral section 12A, and vice versa (for example, depending on the shape and / or size of the peripheral sections 12A, 12B). For example, the gripper arm pairs 14, 16 can start the pivoting movement against the first peripheral section 12A at the same time (for example, when the actuation of the gripper arm pairs 14, 16 is terminated) and / or terminate the pivoting movement against the first peripheral section 12A ... During the pivoting movement, the first gripper arms 24, 26 are pivoted toward each other. During the pivoting movement, the second gripper arms 28, 30 are pivoted toward each other.

[0053] The loosening pivoting movement of the second clamp arm pair 16 away from the second peripheral section 12B does not affect the loosening pivoting movement of the first clamp arm pair 14 away from the first peripheral section 12A, and vice versa. For example, the loosening pivoting movement of the first clamp arm pair 14 can start before the loosening pivoting movement of the second clamp arm pair 16 starts, or vice versa (for example, depending on the shape and / or size of the peripheral sections 12A, 12B). For example, the clamp arm pairs 14, 16, preferably under the triggering action of the clamp arm pairs 14 and 16, can complete the loosening pivoting movement at the same time. During the loosening pivoting movement of the first clamp arm pair 14, the first clamp arms 24, 26 pivot away from each other. During the loosening pivoting movement of the second clamp arm pair 16, the second clamp arms 28, 30 pivot away from each other.

[0054] The clamp arm pairs 14, 16 may extend along a longitudinal axis L1 or L2, respectively. The longitudinal axes L1, L2 may extend substantially parallel to each other. The longitudinal axes L1, L2 may extend substantially perpendicular to the vertical axis H. The longitudinal axes L1, L2 may extend substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis S. In the mounted state, the longitudinal axes L1, L2 may extend substantially parallel to a horizontal plane.

[0055] The clamp arm pair 14, 16 can be pivotally mounted on the clamp frame 18. The clamp arm pair 14, 16 can be pivotally mounted on the clamp frame 18 on opposite sides of the clamp frame 18. The clamp frame 18 can preferably be arranged between the clamp arm pair 14, 16 with reference to the vertical axis of the clamp device 10. The clamp frame 18 can carry the clamp arm pair 14, 16. The clamp frame 18 is preferably designed in a block-shaped manner. The clamp frame preferably extends longitudinally along the pivot axis S and / or extends parallel to the vertical axis H.

[0056] For example, the clamp arm pairs 14, 16 can be pivotally mounted by preferably elongated pivot pins 32, 34 of the clamp frame 18. Specifically, the clamp arms 24, 26, 28, 30 can each have a through hole, for example, at the end of the corresponding clamp arm 24, 26, 28, 30 opposite to the respective free end. The pivot pins 32, 34 can extend through the through hole. A sliding bushing can be arranged between the pivot pins 32, 34 and the through hole.

[0057] The swivel pins 32, 34 may extend coaxially with the pivot axis S. The swivel pins 32, 34 may extend parallel to the vertical axis H. The pivot axes 32, 34 may be arranged on opposite sides of the clamp frame 18. For example, the swivel pin 34 may be arranged on the top side of the clamp frame 18. The swivel pin 32 may be arranged on the bottom side of the clamp frame 18.

[0058] The first clamp arms 24, 26 can be inserted one above the other onto the pivot pin 32. The second clamp arms 28, 30 can be inserted one above the other onto the pivot pin 34. The first clamp arms 24, 26 can be axially fixed on the pivot pin 32. The second clamp arms 28, 30 can be axially fixed on the pivot pin 34. The corresponding axial fixing can be carried out, for example, by means of a screw head which is screwed into a (for example central) hole in the pivot pins 32, 34, preferably coaxially with the pivot axis S.

[0059] The clamp arm pairs 14, 16 can be reinforced adjacent to the pivotable placement of the clamp frame 18. Specifically, the material thickness of the clamp arms 24, 26, 28, 30 can be increased adjacent to the pivotable placement. For example, the clamp arms 24, 26, 28, 30 can have reinforcing ribs 36 adjacent to the pivotable placement. The reinforcing ribs 36 can be designed, for example, as wall parts on the top side and / or bottom side of the clamp arms 24, 26, 28, 30. The wall parts can be annular or surrounding structures. The reinforcing ribs 36 can be arranged in a section of the clamp arms 24, 26, 28, 30 opposite to the free ends of the clamp arms 24, 26, 28, 30. The reinforcing ribs 36 can taper toward the free ends of the clamp arms 24, 26, 28, 30.

[0060] Possibly, the clamp arms 24 and 26 and 28 and 30 have stops facing each other in their middle sections with reference to the longitudinal axes L1 and L2. At these stops, the clamp arms 24 and 26 and 28 and 30 can abut against each other in the closed position when they do not hold the container 12.

[0061] The trigger mechanism 20, 22 can pivot the gripper arm pair 14, 16 around the rotation pin 32, 34 or the pivot axis S. The trigger mechanism 20, 22 can preferably be designed as a roller controller. Preferably, the trigger mechanism 20, 22 can pivot the gripper arm pair 14, 16 open to release the container 12.

[0062] The actuating means 20 , 22 are preferably designed identically in structure and / or identical in function. Preferably, the first actuating means 20 and the second actuating means 22 are designed substantially mirror-symmetrically with respect to a central longitudinal plane or a horizontal plane of the gripper device 10 (in the installed state).

[0063] The trigger mechanisms 20, 22 may be arranged superimposed on each other. The trigger mechanisms 20, 22 may preferably be arranged between the first clamp arm pair 14 and the second clamp arm pair 16 with reference to the vertical axis of the clamp device 10. Specifically, the first trigger mechanism 20 may be partially arranged on the top side of the first clamp arm pair 14. The second trigger mechanism 22 may be partially arranged on the bottom side of the second clamp arm pair 16. The trigger mechanisms 20, 22 may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axes L1, L2 of the clamp arm pairs 14, 16.

[0064] The trigger mechanisms 20, 22 may be carried by the clamp frame 18. The trigger mechanisms 20, 22 may extend through the clamp frame 18, preferably from the rear side of the clamp frame 18 or the side facing away from the container 12 to the front side of the clamp frame 18 or the side facing the container 12.

[0065] The trigger mechanisms 20, 22 themselves are separated from each other so that they can move independently of each other. The first trigger mechanism 20 can move without the second trigger mechanism 22 moving, and vice versa.

[0066] The first trigger mechanism 20 can be connected to the first gripper arms 24, 26 in a section between the free ends and the pivoting portion of the first gripper arms 24, 26, preferably in a middle section with reference to the longitudinal axis L1 of the first gripper arms 24, 26. The second trigger mechanism 22 can be connected to the second gripper arms 28, 30 in a section between the free ends and the pivoting portion of the second gripper arms 28, 30, preferably in a middle section with reference to the longitudinal axis L2 of the second gripper arms 28, 30.

[0067] The first trigger mechanism 20 can preferably have an input component 38, a transmission component 40, a coupling component 42 and two pivot arms 44, 46. It is possible that the components 38, 40, 42, 44, 46 are at least partially integrated with each other. The second trigger mechanism 22 can be constructed and function like the first trigger mechanism 20 with an input component 48, a transmission component 50, a coupling component 52 and two pivot arms 54, 56. Therefore, the detailed description below about the first trigger mechanism 20 can be correspondingly applicable to the second trigger mechanism 22 to a certain extent.

[0068] The input component 38 is preferably supported on the transmission component 40 at the end. The input component 38 can be arranged on the side of the clamping frame 18 facing away from the container 12, or on the rear side of the clamping device 10 or the clamping frame 18. The input component 38 can receive a mechanical input. The input component can be designed, for example, as Figure 1 and 2 The input component 38 can be a rotatable roller shown in the figure, or designed as a sliding shoe. The input component 38 can be loaded by a guide cam or a control cam, for example. The input component 38 can transmit the received input to the transmission component 40.

[0069] The transmission member 40 is displaceably arranged in the clamp frame 18, preferably in a sliding bushing. The transmission member 40 can be elongated, preferably rod-shaped. The transmission member 40 can be displaced in response to the input, preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis L1, L2 and / or perpendicular to the pivot axis S. The transmission member 40 preferably carries a coupling member 42 at an end opposite to the input member 38.

[0070] The coupling part 42 is preferably mounted on the transmission part 40 at the end. For example, the coupling part 42 can be mounted on the transmission part 40 by screws. If the transmission part 40 moves, the coupling part 42 moves together. The coupling part 42 couples the transmission part 40 with the pivot arms 44, 46.

[0071] The pivot arm 44 connects the first clamp arm 24 to the coupling member 42. The pivot arm 44 is pivotally connected to the coupling member 42 at one end, such as by means of a bolt or a pivot pin. The pivot arm 44 is pivotally connected to the clamp arm 24 at an opposite end, such as by means of a bolt or a pivot pin.

[0072] The pivot arm 46 connects the first clamp arm 26 to the coupling member 42. The pivot arm 46 is pivotally connected to the coupling member 42 at one end, such as by a bolt or a pivot pin. The pivot arm 46 is pivotally connected to the first clamp arm 26 at an opposite end, such as by a bolt or a pivot pin.

[0073] The pivot arms 44, 46 are preferably arranged in a V-shaped manner and / or one above the other (e.g. with reference to a vertical axis). The pivot arms 44, 46 can preferably be pivoted coaxially relative to the coupling part 42. However, parallel pivot axes of the pivot arms 44, 46 relative to the coupling part 42 are also possible, for example. The pivot arms 44, 46 are preferably arranged between the coupling part 42 or the transmission part 40 and the first pair of clamp arms 14 with reference to the vertical axis of the clamp device 10.

[0074] In response to the mechanical input, displacement of the input member 48 toward the container 12 causes displacement of the transmission member 40 toward the container 12. Displacement of the transmission member 40 toward the container 12 causes displacement of the coupling member 42 toward the container 12. Displacement of the coupling member 42 toward the container 12 causes displacement of the ends of the pivot arms 44, 46 pivotably connected to the coupling member 42 toward the container 12. Displacement of the ends of the pivot arms 44, 46 pivotably connected to the coupling member 42 causes pivoting of the pivot arms 44, 46 at these ends because the pivot arms 44, 46 are supported on the first clamp arms 24, 26. Pivoting of the pivot arms 44, 46 causes pivoting of the first clamp arms 24, 26, preferably causing the first clamp arms 24, 26 to pivot open or open to release the container 12.

[0075] The clamp arm pairs 14 , 16 may be preloaded toward closing or pivoting inwardly. For example, the clamp device 10 may include a first preload feature 58 for the first clamp arm pair 14 and a second preload feature 60 for the second clamp arm pair 16 .

[0076] The pre-tensioning components 58, 60 may be arranged and constructed separately from the clamp arm pairs 14, 16, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 It is possible that the preload components 58, 60 are arranged directly on the clamp arm pairs 14, 16 and / or are integrally constructed with the corresponding clamp arm pair 14 or 16. For example, the preload component can be substantially U-shaped and / or enclose the corresponding clamp arm pair 13 or 16 in a horizontal plane.

[0077] The pretensioning elements 58 , 60 may be arranged one above the other. The pretensioning elements 58 , 60 may extend parallel to one another and / or parallel to the longitudinal axes L1 , L2 . The pretensioning elements 58 , 60 may be arranged on a side of the clamping frame 18 facing away from the container 12 .

[0078] The pre-tensioning components 58, 60 can be supported on the clamp frame 18, preferably on the side of the clamp frame 18 facing away from the container 12. The pre-tensioning component 58 can be supported on the transmission component 40, preferably on the end section of the transmission component 40 that carries the input component 38. The pre-tensioning component 60 can be supported on the transmission component 50, preferably on the end section of the transmission component 50 that carries the input component 48.

[0079] The transmission component 40 may extend through the preload component 58, or the preload component 58 may surround a section of the transmission component 40. The transmission component 50 may extend through the preload component 60, or the preload component 60 may surround a section of the transmission component 50. For example, the preload components 58, 60 are designed as helical springs.

[0080] For example, the pre-tensioning components 58, 60 can pre-tension the actuating mechanisms 20, 22 in a direction away from the container 12 to close the clamp arm pairs 14, 16. Specifically, the pre-tensioning components 58, 60 can pre-tension the transmission components 40, 50 in a direction away from the container 12. Due to the coupling with the pivot arms 44, 46 and 54, 56, the clamp arms 24, 26 and 28, 30 are pivoted toward each other or inwardly. By pre-tensioning, a holding force can be applied to the container 12, so that the container 12 can be held between the clamp arms 24, 26 and 28, 30 in a force-fitting manner. The pre-tensioning caused by the pre-tensioning components 58, 60 can be overcome by a mechanical input at the input components 38 and 48 for the opening of the clamp arm pairs 14, 16.

[0081] The fixture device 10 can have a fixing mechanism 62. The fixing mechanism 62 is designed to fix the fixture device 10 on a conveying device, such as a conveying turntable, for example, by a screw connection. The fixing mechanism 62 can have at least one positioning component. The positioning component can enable the fixture device 10 to be correctly positioned on the conveying device when it is fixed on the conveying device. The positioning component can be designed as a positioning pin, for example. The fixing mechanism 62 can be fixed on the fixture frame 18, for example, on the back side, top side and / or bottom side of the fixture frame 18.

[0082] Figures 3 to 5 Different views of a conveying device 64 with a plurality of gripper devices 10 are shown. For the sake of clarity, only one container 12 is shown. However, all gripper devices 10 are shown each carrying one container 12.

[0083] The conveying device 64 is designed as a rotatable conveying turntable. The gripper devices 10 are preferably arranged uniformly around the circumference of the conveying device 64. The conveying device 64 can be designed as a so-called gripper star. Due to the two-layer nature of the gripper device 10, the gripper star is designed as a two-layer gripper star.

[0084] The conveying device 64 has a guide contour 66. The input parts 38, 48 can follow the common guide contour 66. By means of the triggering mechanism 20, 22, a temporary operative connection between the guide contour 66 and the gripper arm pair 14 and 16 is caused to open or swing apart the gripper arm pair 14, 16. The container 12 is released.

[0085] For a container 12 which is narrower at the top than at the bottom in the embodiment shown, the input part 48 will first come into contact with the guide contour 66, since it projects further rearwards in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axes L1, L2 than the input part 38. The input part 38 comes into contact with the guide contour 66 after the second pair of gripper arms 16 has already begun to open due to the operative connection to the guide contour 66 by means of the second actuating mechanism 22. The first pair of gripper arms 14 begins to open, while the second pair of gripper arms 16 opens further. The contact can preferably be made when the gripper arm pairs 14, 16 are opened (closed) to the same extent.

[0086] The present invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, there can be many modifications and variations which also employ the concept of the present invention and thus fall within the scope of protection.

[0087] List of Reference Numerals

[0088] 10 Fixture device

[0089] 12 Containers

[0090] 12A First peripheral section

[0091] 12B Second peripheral section

[0092] 14 First clamp arm pair

[0093] 16 Second clamp arm pair

[0094] 18 Clamp rack

[0095] 20First trigger mechanism

[0096] 22 Second trigger mechanism

[0097] 24 clamp arm

[0098] 26 Clamp Arm

[0099] 28 Clamp Arm

[0100] 30 Clamp Arm

[0101] 32 Rotation pin

[0102] 34 Rotation pin

[0103] 36 Strengthening ribs

[0104] 38 Input components

[0105] 40 Transmission parts

[0106] 42 coupling component

[0107] 44 Pivot Arm

[0108] 46 Pivot Arm

[0109] 48 Input components

[0110] 50 Transmission parts

[0111] 52 coupling component

[0112] 54 Pivot Arm

[0113] 56 Pivot Arm

[0114] 58 preload components

[0115] 60 preload components

[0116] 62Fixed mechanism

[0117] 64 conveying device

[0118] 66 Guiding profile (steering cam / guiding cam)

[0119] H vertical axis

[0120] S pivot axis

[0121] L1 longitudinal axis

[0122] L2 longitudinal axis

Claims

1. A clamp device (10) for holding a container (12) for a container handling device, comprising: A first pair of gripper arms (14) and a second pair of gripper arms (16), which are arranged one above the other in order to simultaneously hold the container (12) and can be coaxially pivoted independently of one another; A first trigger mechanism (20) operatively connected to the first pair of clamp arms (14) in order to cause the first pair of clamp arms (14) to pivot; and a second trigger mechanism (22) operatively connected to the second pair of gripper arms (16) in order to cause the second pair of gripper arms (16) to pivot, Also features: a first pre-tensioning member (58) for pre-tensioning the first pair of clamp arms (14); and A second pre-tensioning component (60) is provided for pre-tensioning the second pair of clamp arms (16).

2. The clamping device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first gripper arm pair (14) has two first gripper arms (24, 26) for abutting against the container (12), the first gripper arms being able to pivot in opposite directions to one another; as well as The second gripper arm pair (16) has two second gripper arms (28, 30) for abutting against the container (12), which second gripper arms can be pivoted in opposite directions to one another and independently of the two first gripper arms (24, 26).

3. The clamping device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first pair of clamp arms (14) and the second pair of clamp arms (16) are capable of pivoting independently of each other such that: The container (12) is capable of being held on peripheral sections (12A, 12B) of different sizes and / or shapes of the container (12) while being held by the first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16); and / or The first pair of gripper arms (14) continues to pivot inwardly until it abuts against the container (12), even though the inward pivoting of the second pair of gripper arms (16) has been completed by abutting against the container (12); and / or The pivotal opening of the first pair of gripper arms (14) is performed separately from the pivotal opening of the second pair of gripper arms (16).

4. The clamping device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16) are identical in construction and / or are designed to be substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to a horizontal plane.

5. The clamping device (10) according to claim 1 further comprises: A clamp frame (18) pivotably supports the first pair of clamp arms (14) and the second pair of clamp arms (16).

6. The clamping device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first trigger mechanism (20) and the second trigger mechanism (22) are arranged one above the other, have the same structure, are constructed basically mirror-symmetrically with reference to a horizontal plane, are carried by a clamp frame (18) of the clamp device (10), are designed as roller controllers, and / or are arranged between the first clamp arm pair (14) and the second clamp arm pair (16).

7. The clamping device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first trigger mechanism (20) and the second trigger mechanism (22) has two pivot arms (44, 46, 54, 56) which are arranged in a V shape and can be displaced back and forth in response to a mechanical input on the respective trigger mechanism (20, 22) and / or can be pivotally mounted on each clamp arm (24, 26, 28, 30) of the respective clamp arm pair (14, 16) in active connection.

8. The clamping device (10) according to claim 7, wherein: Two pivot arms (44, 46, 54, 56) are pivotably mounted on a displaceable transmission component (40, 50), which is displaceably mounted in a clamp frame (18) of the clamp device (10), the transmission component being in the form of a rod and / or carrying an input component (38, 48).

9. The clamp device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first pretensioning component (58) and the second pretensioning component (60) is supported on a clamping frame (18) of the clamping device (10), supported on a trigger mechanism (20, 22) of the clamping device (10), surrounds a section of the trigger mechanism (20, 22) of the clamping device (10), and / or is arranged on a side of the clamping frame (18) of the clamping device (10) facing away from the container (12).

10. The clamping device (10) according to claim 2, wherein: The two first clamp arms (24, 26) are coupled to each other.

11. The clamping device (10) according to claim 2, wherein: The two second clamp arms (28, 30) are coupled to each other.

12. The clamping device (10) according to claim 2, wherein: The second clamp arm (28, 30) pivots coaxially with the first clamp arm (24, 26).

13. The clamping device (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The preload causes the first pair of clamp arms (14) to pivot inwards.

14. The clamping device (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The preload causes the second pair of clamp arms (16) to pivot inwards.

15. The clamping device (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The pivotal opening of the first pair of gripper arms (14) is caused by actuation.

16. The clamp device (10) according to claim 3, wherein: The pivotal opening of the second pair of gripper arms (16) is caused by actuation.

17. The clamp device (10) according to claim 5, wherein: The clamp frame (18) is substantially block-shaped and / or elongated.

18. The clamp device (10) according to claim 5, wherein: The clamp frame (18) pivotably carries the first clamp arm pair (14) and the second clamp arm pair (16) at mutually opposite end regions of the clamp frame (18).

19. The clamp device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The second triggering mechanism (22) is separated from the first triggering mechanism (20).

20. The clamp device (10) according to claim 8, wherein: The two pivot arms (44, 46, 54, 56) are coaxially arranged on the displaceable transmission member (40, 50).

21. The clamp device (10) according to claim 8, wherein: The input component (38, 48) is a rotatable roller or a sliding shoe.

22. The clamp device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first preload component (58) is a coil spring.

23. The clamp device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The first pre-tightening component (58) is used for closing.

24. The clamp device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The second preload component (60) is a coil spring.

25. The clamp device (10) according to claim 1, wherein: The second pre-tightening component (60) is used for closing.

26. The clamp device (10) of claim 1, wherein: The first pretensioning element (58) and the second pretensioning element (60) are arranged one above the other and / or extend in parallel.

27. A conveying device (64) for containers (12) for a container handling system, comprising: At least one clamping device (10) according to any of the preceding claims.

28. The conveying device (64) according to claim 27 further comprises: A common guide contour (66) is designed to enable the first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16) to pivot in an operative connection with the first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16).

29. The delivery device (64) according to claim 27, wherein: The conveying device (64) is a rotatable clamp star.

30. The delivery device (64) according to claim 28, wherein: The common guide contour (66) is used to open the first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16).

31. A method for conveying a container (12), wherein: The method is for conveying a container (12) by means of a gripper device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 26 or by means of a conveying device according to any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein the container (12) has a first peripheral section (12A) and a second peripheral section (12B) which are offset from one another with reference to a vertical axis (H) of the container (12) and differ from one another in size and / or shape, Wherein, the method comprises: The first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16) which are arranged one above the other are independently caused to pivot about a common pivot axis until the first pair of gripper arms (14) rests on the first peripheral section (12A) and the second pair of gripper arms (16) rests on the second peripheral section (12B), so that the container (12) is held by both the first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16) at the same time.

32. The method of claim 31 further comprising: The first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16) are pivoted away from the container (12) independently of each other to release the container (12).

33. The method of claim 31, wherein: The preload causes the first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16) to pivot.

34. The method of claim 32, wherein: The pivoting is caused by independently actuating the first pair (14) of gripper arms and the second pair (16) of gripper arms.

35. The method of claim 32, wherein: The first pair of gripper arms (14) and the second pair of gripper arms (16) are pivoted by means of the same guide contour (66).

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