Transport of objects having different dimensions

Abstract

Furthermore, the invention relates to a device (10) for transporting objects (12), preferably containers, along a transport path (T). A control unit (32) is configured to operate the device (10) in a first operating mode and in a second operating mode. In the first and second operating modes, the objects (12) are transported by a pair of one first movement device (16) and one second movement device (18), respectively. In the first operating mode, the pair is configured such that the first movement device (16) is positioned in front of the second movement device (18) of the respective pair in the direction of the transport path (T). In the second operating mode, the positioning is reversed. Advantageously, the device (10) enables different objects to be transported without mechanical specification adaptation and enables a relatively small spacing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus and method for transporting objects, preferably containers. Background Technology

[0002] Container handling equipment typically consists of a series of different processing stations arranged sequentially. Containers undergo various processes at these stations. These may include, for example, filling, sealing, or labeling processes. Several possibilities exist for transporting containers between these stations. There are machines that operate on a cycle time, such as those used in the production of beverage cartons. In these cases, container transport is mostly carried out via chains. Conveyor star wheels are commonly used in machines used for filling beverage containers, transporting the containers through the equipment.

[0003] The current trend in the development of linear motor technology for transporting containers, such as bottles or cans, in equipment and machinery used for manufacturing, filling, and packaging beverages and liquid foods is linear motor technology, for example, in the form of long-stator linear motor systems or short-stator linear motor systems. In a long-stator linear motor system, a long stator with a fixed position and electromagnets is used to move a motion device equipped with permanent magnets. In a short-stator linear motor system, the motion device may have a short stator composed of electromagnets, which magnetically interact with fixed permanent magnets to move the motion device. The motion device (also referred to as a "shuttle" or "actuator") can move one or more containers individually. A major advantage of linear motor technology is that the motion devices can be controlled individually or separately and independently of each other.

[0004] WO2019 / 159116A1 discloses a machine for handling or conveying containers, comprising a guide extending along a conveying direction for conveying the containers and a plurality of brackets for supporting the containers, sequentially and slidably mounted on the same guide. The guide and each bracket together define a corresponding linear motor. Each support bracket includes two clamping devices, specifically mounted along the same guide on different and sequentially mounted brackets. The brackets are movable toward or away from each other to adjust the mutual distance along the conveying direction for conveying the containers and to define a clamping area between the two clamping devices depending on the type of container to be removed or released.

[0005] EP3109189A1 discloses a conveying device for transporting a series of packaged units along a conveying path. The conveying device includes: a first continuous carrier having at least one operable branch parallel to the conveying path; at least one first conveying element that moves forward along the first continuous carrier; a second continuous carrier adjacent to the first continuous carrier and having at least one operable branch parallel to the conveying path and the operable branch; and at least one second conveying element that is controlled independently of the first conveying element and moves forward along the second continuous carrier. The first and second conveying elements are configured to hold a corresponding packaged unit between them and to move such a package forward along the conveying path.

[0006] The objective of this invention is to further improve the previously described technology in such a way that objects, preferably containers, of different sizes can be transported, preferably at the smallest possible intervals, in a simple manner without modifying the device. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The task is solved by the features of the present invention. Advantageous further improvements are given in the present invention.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure relates to an apparatus for transporting an object, preferably a container, along a transport path, the apparatus having at least one (e.g., enclosed or surrounding) guide rail. The apparatus also has a first motion device and a second motion device for transporting the object. The first and second motion devices are alternately and sequentially guided along the at least one guide rail and can preferably be driven individually by means of a long stator linear driver or a short stator linear driver. The apparatus also includes a control unit configured to operate the apparatus in a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In the first and second operating modes, the object is transported by a pair consisting of one first motion device and one second motion device, respectively. In the first operating mode, the pair is configured such that the first motion device is positioned in front of the second motion device of the corresponding pair in the direction of the transport path. In the second operating mode, the pair is configured such that the second motion device is positioned in front of the first motion device of the corresponding pair in the direction of the transport path.

[0009] Advantageously, this device enables the transport of different objects, preferably containers, on a moving device without mechanical specification adjustments. Furthermore, relatively small spacing (the distance between objects transported sequentially) can be achieved, which is important for high machine power. During specification changes, the synergistic action of the moving device used to transport the objects can be changed. For the first group of objects (e.g., small containers), the device can operate in a first operating mode. For the second group of objects (e.g., large containers), the device can operate in a second operating mode. Specification changes can be switched between the first and second operating modes without requiring time-consuming and costly mechanical modifications to the device. Therefore, specification changes can be implemented simply through a change in operating mode at the control technology level.

[0010] For example, the first and second motion devices can be configured to transport objects suspended, supported, or slidably on the ground.

[0011] Preferably, the first motion device and the second motion device are guided along the same guide rail.

[0012] In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to operate a means for transporting an object of a first specification in a first operating mode, and a means for transporting an object of a second specification, preferably different in shape and / or size from the first specification, in a second operating mode.

[0013] In another embodiment, the first and second motion devices differ from each other, preferably in the arrangement and / or configuration of the support structure for the object. Advantageously, the first and second motion devices can therefore be adapted to very different sizes and / or, during transport, to achieve very small spacing even though the object can be relatively large.

[0014] It is also possible that the first and second motion devices are structurally identical but oriented to different degrees relative to the at least one guide rail, wherein, preferably, the second motion device is rotated substantially 180° relative to the first motion device about its respective pitch axis.

[0015] In another embodiment, the first and second motion devices each have a first support section oriented along the transmission path direction, preferably V-shaped, annular, or planar, and a second support section oriented opposite to the transmission path direction, preferably V-shaped, annular, or planar, for supporting the object during transmission. Preferably, in the first operating mode, the object is supported between the second support section of the first motion device and the first support section of the second motion device, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, in the second operating mode, the object is supported between the first support section of the first motion device and the second support section of the second motion device, respectively.

[0016] Preferably, in the first operating mode, the second support section of the corresponding pair of first motion devices and the first support section of the second motion device can face each other.

[0017] Preferably, in the second operating mode, the first support section of the first motion device and the second support section of the second motion device of the corresponding pair can face each other.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first support section of the first motion device is structurally different from the second support section of the first motion device. Preferably, the first support section of the second motion device is structurally identical to the second support section of the first motion device, and / or the second support section of the second motion device is structurally identical to the first support section of the first motion device. Therefore, it is advantageous, for example, to allow objects with very different dimensions (e.g., a conical container and a cylindrical container) to be transported by the same device. For example, in a first operating mode, a conical container can be transported. A cylindrical container can then be transported in a second operating mode.

[0019] In another embodiment, the first support section of the first moving device, the second support section of the first moving device, the first support section of the second moving device, and / or the second support section of the second moving device are implemented structurally identically. The structural implementation of the support sections in this embodiment can be advantageous, allowing different sizes of objects to be supported using the same support sections for transport.

[0020] In another embodiment, the first support section of the first moving device is offset rearward relative to the direction of the transport path, and / or the second support section of the second moving device is offset rearward relative to the direction opposite to the direction of the transport path. Alternatively or additionally, the second support section of the first moving device may protrude in the direction opposite to the direction of the transport path, and / or the first support section of the second moving device may protrude relative to the direction of the transport path. Therefore, a small spacing can be advantageously achieved when transporting large objects.

[0021] In one variant, the first and second motion devices each have a support arm, which preferably carries the corresponding first and second support sections of the motion device at the same end. Preferably, the support arms of the first and second motion devices can be bent in opposite directions. Advantageously, the bent portions of the support arms can thus point outwards in the second operating mode, for example, in the case of large objects. In the case of small objects, the bent portions of the support arms can point inwards in the first operating mode. In this way, even in the case of large containers, a spacing significantly smaller than that achievable with rigidly matched motion devices can be achieved.

[0022] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to an apparatus for transporting an object, preferably a container, along a transport path, the apparatus having at least one (e.g., enclosed or surrounding) guide rail. The apparatus has a plurality of motion devices for transporting the object, wherein the plurality of motion devices are guided along the at least one guide rail and may preferably be individually driven by means of a long stator linear actuator or a short stator linear actuator. The apparatus has a control unit configured to control the plurality of motion devices such that a corresponding group of at least three of the plurality of motion devices collectively transports an object, preferably clamped between itself, along the transport path to a transfer area of ​​a transfer device for transferring the object.

[0023] Advantageously, this device enables a very high degree of flexibility in transportable dimensions without modifying the motion mechanism. Almost any suitable profile can be transported through multiple contact points between the at least three motion mechanisms and the object. Dimensional adjustments can also be achieved simply by changing the arrangement of the motion mechanisms relative to each other in a straightforward control manner. Time-consuming and costly mechanical modifications to the motion mechanisms during dimension changes can be avoided.

[0024] In one embodiment, the control unit is configured such that each of the groups consists of exactly three of the plurality of motion devices, wherein the object is preferably supported or carried, preferably on the peripheral surface or wall surface of the object, by the exactly three motion devices of the respective group in a three-point supported manner. Advantageously, this reduces the minimum possible spacing and also avoids the use of unnecessary additional motion devices for transporting the object.

[0025] In another embodiment, the at least one guide rail has a first guide rail and a second guide rail, which extend substantially parallel to each other and are arranged overlapping each other. The control unit is configured to form a first group in the group, such that one of the three motion devices of the first group is guided on the first guide rail, while the other two of the three motion devices of the first group are guided on the second guide rail. Furthermore, the control unit is also configured to form a second group in the group, preferably directly following the first group, such that two of the three motion devices of the second group are guided on the first guide rail, while the other of the three motion devices of the second group is guided on the second guide rail. Advantageously, this can particularly effectively reduce the possible minimum spacing, as sequentially arranged objects can be transported together very close to each other.

[0026] Preferably, the first and second groups, or the groups in general, in the top view of the device are able to overlap each other from above during transport.

[0027] In another embodiment, the control unit is configured such that each of these groups consists of exactly four of the plurality of motion devices, wherein the object is preferably supported or carried, preferably on the peripheral surface or peripheral wall surface of the object, by exactly four motion devices of the respective group in a four-point support manner. Advantageously, the four-point support enables particularly great flexibility with respect to the possible contours of the transportable object.

[0028] Preferably, the at least one guide rail may have a first guide rail and a second guide rail, which extend substantially parallel to each other and are arranged overlapping each other. The control unit may be preferably configured to form the group such that two of the four motion devices in each group are guided on the first guide rail, and the other two of the four motion devices are guided on the second guide rail.

[0029] Another aspect of the invention relates to a processing apparatus for handling containers, the apparatus comprising the means as disclosed herein. Advantageously, this means enables the minimization of the achievable spacing (distance) of the processing apparatus, because the spacing can be matched to or correspond to the minimum achievable spacing when transporting an object through the apparatus. As explained, the means enables the moving devices to converge very closely to achieve a small spacing, for example, to keep the distance between two sequentially placed filling valves as small as possible.

[0030] Preferably, the processing equipment can be configured for manufacturing, cleaning, coating, inspecting, filling, sealing, labeling, printing and / or packaging containers for liquid media, preferably beverages or liquid foods.

[0031] For example, the container can be implemented as a bottle, can, barrel, cardboard box, small glass bottle, etc.

[0032] Preferably, the processing equipment may have multiple processing stations (e.g., filling stations, sealing stations, and / or labeling stations) for containers transported by the device, wherein the multiple processing stations are arranged along the at least one guide rail. If, for example, multiple, e.g., five filling valves are sequentially positioned on the guide rail in a filling machine, the device can cause multiple or five containers to always move simultaneously to under these filling valves and be filled there. After the filling process is completed, the device causes the multiple or five filled containers to continue moving, and multiple or five new empty containers are moved by the device to under the filling valves. Because the device can achieve very small spacing or very small separation distance, changeovers can require relatively little time, thereby improving efficiency.

[0033] Preferably, the term "control unit" can refer to an electronic device (e.g., implemented as a drive circuit or having a microprocessor and data memory) that, depending on its configuration, undertakes control and / or regulation and / or processing tasks. Even when the term "control" is used herein, it can quite appropriately include or mean "regulation" or "control with feedback" and / or "processing".

[0034] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for transporting objects, preferably containers, of different specifications using a preferred device as disclosed herein, the device having at least one (e.g., enclosed or surrounding) guide rail and a first and second motion device for transporting the objects, wherein the first and second motion devices are alternately and sequentially guided along the at least one guide rail and can preferably be individually driven by a long stator linear driver or a short stator linear driver. The method includes transporting an object of a first specification (e.g., in a first operating mode and / or controlled by the control unit of the device) by means of a pair of first and second motion devices, wherein the first motion device is positioned in front of the second motion device of the pair in the direction of the transport path. The method also includes transferring an object of a second specification, preferably different in size and / or shape from the first specification (e.g., in a second operating mode and / or controlled by the control unit of the device), by means of a pair of first and second motion devices, wherein the second motion device is positioned in front of the first motion device of the pair in the direction of the transport path. Advantageously, the same advantages already described with respect to the corresponding device can be achieved by this method.

[0035] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for transporting objects, preferably containers, of different sizes using a preferred apparatus as described herein, the apparatus having at least one (e.g., enclosed or surrounding) guide rail and a plurality of motion devices for transporting the objects along a transport path, wherein the plurality of motion devices are guided along the at least one guide rail and may be individually driven, preferably by means of a long stator linear actuator or a short stator linear actuator. The method includes: transporting objects of different sizes along the transport path to a transfer area of ​​a transfer device for transferring the objects, respectively, by means of groups consisting of at least three motion devices (e.g., exactly three or exactly four motion devices), wherein the motion devices collectively position, preferably clamp, the objects between themselves, wherein, for transporting the objects, the arrangement of the at least three motion devices relative to each other is adjusted according to the respective size of the objects to be transported, preferably to achieve (e.g., flexible) three-point support or (e.g., flexible) four-point support. Advantageously, the same advantages already described with respect to the corresponding apparatus can be achieved by this method.

[0036] The terminology used herein relating to the direction of a transport path can preferably be understood as relating to the direction of the segment in which the corresponding movement device of the transport path is positioned.

[0037] The preferred embodiments and features described above can be combined with each other in any way. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Other details and advantages of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0039] Figure 1 A top view of a section of an apparatus for transporting an object in a first operating mode, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 2 An embodiment of the present disclosure is shown for use in a second operating mode. Figure 1 A top view of the section of the device;

[0041] Figure 3 A side view of a section of an apparatus for transporting an object in a first operating mode, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 4 An embodiment of the present disclosure is shown for use in a second operating mode. Figure 3 A side view of the section of the device;

[0043] Figure 5 A side view of a section of an apparatus for transporting objects according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0044] Figure 6 A side view of a section of an apparatus for transporting objects according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0045] The embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings are at least partially consistent, such that similar or identical parts are given the same reference numerals, and for the purpose of explanation, reference is also made to the description of other embodiments or drawings to avoid repetition.

[0046] List of reference numerals

[0047] 10. Devices for transport

[0048] 12 objects

[0049] 14 guide rails

[0050] 16 First motion device

[0051] 18 Second Motion Device

[0052] 20 First Support Section

[0053] 22 Second Support Section

[0054] 24 First Support Section

[0055] 26 Second Support Section

[0056] 28 Support Arm

[0057] 30 Support Arm

[0058] 32 Control Unit

[0059] 110 Equipment for transport

[0060] 114 guide rail

[0061] 115 guide rail

[0062] 116. Sports equipment

[0063] 120 Support Section

[0064] 132 Control Unit

[0065] T transport route

[0066] G1 Group 1

[0067] G2 Group 2

[0068] G3 Group 3 Detailed Implementation

[0069] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A section of the apparatus 10 for transporting object 12 along the transport path or in the transport direction T is shown.

[0070] The object 12 is preferably implemented as a container. However, other objects 12 may also be transported. Particularly preferably, the device 10 is included in a container handling apparatus. In the container handling apparatus, the object 12 implemented as a container can be transported by the device 10, for example, to a processing station and / or transported away from the processing station.

[0071] For example, it is feasible to arrange multiple processing stations, such as filling stations, sealing stations, or labeling stations, side by side along a section of the device 10. The device 10 can transport objects 12, preferably implemented as containers, to the multiple processing stations and / or hold them during processing at the processing stations and / or remove them after processing.

[0072] The device 10 has at least one guide rail 14 and a plurality of motion devices 16, 18 for transporting the object 12 along the transport path T.

[0073] The at least one guide rail 14 is preferably closed or surrounding. For example, the at least one guide rail 14 may be circular, annular, oval, or elliptical.

[0074] The motion devices 16 and 18 are guided and preferably carried on the at least one guide rail 14. For example, the motion devices 16 and 18 may each have at least one guide element (not shown) that guides the respective motion device 16 or 18 on the at least one guide rail 14. The guide element may be implemented, for example, as a roller that rolls along the at least one guide rail 14 or as a slide that slides along the at least one guide rail 14.

[0075] The motion devices 16 and 18 can move or be driven individually or independently along the at least one guide rail 14. Preferably, the device 10 may have a linear motor system (not shown), such as a long stator linear motor system or a short stator linear motor system, for individually driving the motion devices 16 and 18.

[0076] For example, in a long stator linear motor system, multiple long stator segments (each having multiple electromagnets) can be arranged along the at least one guide rail 14. These long stator segments can magnetically interact with the permanent magnets of the motion devices 16, 18, so that the motion devices 16, 18 can be individually driven or moved along the at least one guide rail 14. In a short stator linear motor system, for example, multiple permanent magnets can be arranged along the at least one guide rail 14 and the motion devices 16, 18 can each have at least one electromagnet, which can magnetically interact with the permanent magnets to drive the motion devices 16, 18. However, completely different, separate drive designs for the motion devices 16, 18 can also be envisioned, for example, for each motion device 16, 18, at least one electric motor drives the rollers of the motion device 16, 18.

[0077] The motion devices 16 and 18 have a first motion device 16 and a second motion device 18. The first motion device 16 and the second motion device 18 are alternately guided sequentially along the at least one guide rail 14, preferably on the same guide rail 14.

[0078] The first motion device 16 and the second motion device 18 each constitute a pair for transporting (at least) one object 12. Objects 12 in succession can be transported by these successive pairs.

[0079] During transport along the transport path T, object 12 can be positioned between a corresponding pair of first motion devices 16 and second motion devices 18. One of the pair of motion devices 16, 18 can support object 12 relative to the transport path T, for example, from the front, while the other of the pair of motion devices 16, 18 can support object 12 relative to the transport path T, for example, from the rear.

[0080] A pair of motion devices 16, 18 can clamp or hold an object 12 between them, for example. The motion devices 16, 18 can transport the object 12 suspendably or load-bearingly, for example, by carrying a container at the neck or by clamping the body of the object 12. However, it is also possible for the motion devices 16, 18 to cause the object 12 to slide slidably on, for example, a flat bottom surface (not shown), for example, by carrying a container at the neck.

[0081] Preferably, the first motion device 16 differs from the second motion device 18. The difference is preferably in how and / or where the respective motion devices 16 and 18 support the object 12. The first motion device 16 may differ from the second motion device 18 in the arrangement and / or configuration for supporting the object 12.

[0082] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2In the embodiments, the first motion device 16 and the second motion device 18 differ in the arrangement structure for supporting the object 12, as described in detail below.

[0083] The first motion device 16 may have a first support section 20 and a second support section 22 for supporting the object 12. The first support section 20 may be oriented or turned toward the direction of the transport path T. The second support section 22 may be oriented or turned in the opposite direction to the direction of the transport path T. The support sections 20 and 22 may be oriented in opposite directions to each other.

[0084] The second motion device 18 may have a first support section 24 and a second support section 26 for supporting the object 12. The first support section 24 may be oriented or turned toward the direction of the transport path T. The second support section 26 may be oriented or turned in the opposite direction to the direction of the transport path T. The support sections 24 and 26 may be oriented in opposite directions to each other.

[0085] The first support section 20 of the first motion device 16 can cooperate with the second support section 26 of the second motion device 18 to transport the object 12, such as in Figure 2 As shown. The second support section 22 of the first motion device 16 can cooperate with the first support section 24 of the second motion device 18 to transport the object 12, as shown in Figure 1 As shown.

[0086] The support sections 20, 22, 24, and 26 can be implemented with identical structures. However, it is also possible, for example, that support sections 20 and 22 are implemented with different structures, and that support sections 24 and 26 are also implemented with different structures. Preferably, support sections 20 and 26 are structurally identical, and support sections 22 and 24 are also structurally identical.

[0087] Support sections 20, 22, 24 and / or 26 may be implemented, for example, in a V-shape, as in Figure 1 As shown in the diagram. It is also possible that the support sections 20, 22, 24 and / or 26 are implemented differently, for example, in annular or planar form.

[0088] The first support section 20 of the first motion device 16 can be offset rearward relative to the direction of the transport path T, and the second support section 26 of the second motion device 18 can be offset rearward relative to the direction opposite to the direction of the transport path T, as in Figure 1 As shown in the diagram. Alternatively or additionally, the second support section 22 of the first motion device 16 may protrude in a direction opposite to the direction of the transport path T, and / or the first support section 24 of the second motion device 18 may protrude relative to the direction of the transport path T, as also shown in the diagram. Figure 1 As shown in the diagram.

[0089] For example, motion devices 16 and 18 may each have support arms 28 and 30. Preferably, the support arms 28 and 30 can be bent in opposite directions from their respective bases.

[0090] Support arm 28 can support the first support section 20 and the second support section 22 of the corresponding first motion device 16, preferably at the outer end of support arm 28. Support arm 30 can support the first support section 24 and the second support section 26 of the corresponding second motion device 18, preferably at the outer end of support arm 30. Support arm 28 can be bent from its base toward the ends of the support sections 20 and 22 of support arm 30 in the opposite direction to the transport path T. Support arm 30 can be bent from its base toward the ends of the support sections 24 and 26 of support arm 30 in the direction of transport path T.

[0091] However, it is also possible, for example, that the motion devices 16 and / or 18 each have two support arms (not shown in the figures), one carrying the first support section 20 or 24 respectively and the other carrying the second support section 22 or 26 respectively. The support arm carrying the first support section 20 can be bent from the base, preferably in the direction opposite to the direction of the transport path T. The support arm carrying the second support section 22 can be bent from the base, preferably in the direction opposite to the direction of the transport path T. The support arm carrying the first support section 24 can be bent from the base, preferably towards the direction of the transport path T. The support arm carrying the second support section 26 can be bent from the base, preferably towards the direction of the transport path T.

[0092] The movement of motion devices 16 and 18 can be controlled by control unit 32. For example, control unit 32 can control the power supply of the electromagnet that drives the linear actuator (e.g., long stator linear actuator or short stator linear actuator) of motion devices 16 and 18 as needed to achieve individual movement of motion devices 16 and 18.

[0093] The control unit 32 is configured to selectively operate the device 10 in a first operating mode and a second operating mode. Figure 1 This shows the operation in the first running mode. Figure 2 The diagram illustrates operation in the second operating mode. The control unit 32 can operate for transporting an object 12 of the first specification in the first operating mode (see...). Figure 1 And in the second operating mode, transport objects of the second specification 12 (see...) Figure 2The device 10. The first specification may differ from the second specification, for example, in terms of the shape and / or size of the object. For example, the object 12 transported in the first operating mode may be smaller or have a smaller diameter than the object 12 transported in the second operating mode.

[0094] In the first and second operating modes, the object 12 is transported by a pair consisting of a first motion device 16 and a second motion device 18, respectively. These pairs differ between the first and second operating modes.

[0095] In the first operating mode, the pair is configured such that the first motion device 16 is positioned in front of the corresponding second motion device 18 in the direction of the transport path T. The first motion device 16 in front of the corresponding pair can support the corresponding object 12 from the front relative to the direction of the transport path T, while the second motion device 18 in the corresponding pair can support the corresponding object 12 from the rear relative to the direction of the transport path T. For example, the object 12 can be supported between the second support section 22 of the first motion device 16 and the first support section 24 of the second motion device 18, respectively.

[0096] In the second operating mode, the pair is configured such that the second motion device 18 is positioned in front of the first motion device 16 of the corresponding pair in the direction of the transport path T. The second motion device 18 in front of the corresponding pair can support the corresponding object 12 from the front relative to the direction of the transport path T, while the first motion device 16 in the corresponding pair can support the corresponding object 12 from the rear relative to the direction of the transport path T. For example, the object 12 can be supported between the second support section 26 of the second motion device 18 and the first support section 20 of the first motion device 16, respectively.

[0097] The various bends exemplarily described for the support arms 28 and 30 can, in particular, achieve a smaller extension length for the respective pairs of transported objects 12 in the second operating mode compared to what might be possible without the bends. This allows for the smallest possible spacing when transporting large objects.

[0098] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagram shows the operation in the first running mode (see...). Figure 3 ) and second operating mode (see Figure 4 Another device 10' for transporting object 12 in the process.

[0099] Device 10' is similar to Figure 1 and 2 The device 10 is used to implement this, and then the modifications of device 10' relative to device 10 will be pointed out in particular below.

[0100] Preferably, the first motion device 16 and the second motion device 18 of the device 10' differ in the configuration or structure for supporting the object 12.

[0101] Support sections 20 and 22 are implemented differently in structure, and support sections 24 and 26 can also be implemented differently in structure. Preferably, support sections 20 and 26 are structurally identical, and support sections 22 and 24 are also structurally identical.

[0102] For example, support sections 20 and 26 can be implemented as planar or annular segment-shaped, vertical support surfaces. Support sections 22 and 24 can be implemented as planar or truncated spherical support surfaces, for example. Advantageously, therefore, in the first operating mode, a gradually tapering or at least partially conical object 12 can be transported, and in the second operating mode, a cylindrical or square object 12 can be transported.

[0103] As mentioned above, Figures 1 to 4 The embodiments described herein enable the transportation of objects of different sizes in different operating modes. See below for reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6 Other devices 110 or 110' are described, which are also capable of transporting objects 12 of very different dimensions; however, this differs from... Figures 1 to 4 The implementation method is as described in the examples. It is understood that reference... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The described techniques can be compared with the references Figures 1 to 4 The technologies described are combined.

[0104] Figure 5 A section of a device 110 for transporting object 12 is shown. Object 12 is preferably implemented as a container. However, other objects 12 may also be transported. Particularly preferably, device 110 is included in a container handling apparatus, as has been referenced, for example. Figure 1 As described.

[0105] The device 110 has at least one guide rail 114, 115 and a plurality of motion devices 116 for transporting the object 12 along the transport path T.

[0106] The at least one guide rail 114, 115 is preferably closed or encircling. For example, the at least one guide rail 114, 115 may be circular, annular, oval, or elliptical. Preferably, a first guide rail 114 and a second guide rail 115 are included, which extend substantially parallel to each other and are arranged, for example, overlapping each other.

[0107] The motion device 116 is guided and preferably carried on the at least one guide rail 114, 115, as has been referenced, for example. Figure 1 As described.

[0108] The motion device 116 can move or be driven individually or independently along the at least one guide rail 114, 115. Preferably, the device 110 may have at least one linear motor system (not shown), such as a long stator linear motor system or a short stator linear motor system, for individually driving the motion device 116. For a detailed embodiment for driving the motion device 116, see also [reference needed]. Figure 1 The corresponding implementation scheme. The control of the actuator of the motion device 116 can be implemented by the control unit 132.

[0109] It is possible that the first guide rail 114 is equipped with a first linear motor system (e.g., a long stator linear motor system or a short stator linear motor system) for individually driving those motion devices 116 guided along the first guide rail 114.

[0110] It is also possible that the second guide rail 115 is equipped with a second linear motor system (e.g., a long stator linear motor system or a short stator linear motor system) for individually driving those motion devices 116 guided along the second guide rail 115.

[0111] For example, each motion device 116 may have a support section 120 for supporting the object 12. The support sections 120 of the three motion devices 116 in the corresponding group may support the object at different locations. The support sections 120 may be implemented, for example, in a V-shape, annular shape, or planar shape. The support sections 120 may preferably be supported by the support arms of the corresponding motion devices 116.

[0112] The control unit 132 can be configured to control the plurality of motion devices 116 such that a corresponding group G1, G2, G3 consisting of at least three of the plurality of motion devices 116 jointly transports an object 12, preferably clamped between itself, along the transport path T to the transfer area of ​​the device 110 for transferring the object 12, for example, to another conveyor or processing station.

[0113] The object 12 is preferably held or supported in a three-point support by three moving devices 116 (or by their support sections 120) of corresponding groups G1, G2, and G3. The support sections 120 of the three moving devices 116 of the groups G1, G2, and G3 can preferably support the object 12 at different height positions. For example, the three support sections 120 can be used to support the shoulder, middle section, and bottom section of the object 12, which is implemented as a container.

[0114] A set of motion devices 116 can clamp or hold objects 12 between them, for example. The motion devices 116 can transport objects 12 suspendably or carry them, for example, by carrying a container at the neck or by clamping the body of the object 12. However, it is also possible for the motion devices 116 to cause the object 12 to slide slidably on a flat bottom surface (not shown), for example, by carrying a container at the neck.

[0115] Figure 5 The section shown illustrates three groups G1, G2, and G3, each having three motion devices 116. To achieve the narrowest possible spacing, the groups G1, G2, and G3 can be configured, for example, as follows.

[0116] For the first group G1, one of the three motion devices 116 can be guided on the first guide rail 114, while the other two motion devices 116 can be guided on the second guide rail 115.

[0117] In the second group G2, which can directly follow the first group G1 in the direction of the transport path T, two of the three motion devices 116 can be guided on the first guide rail 114, and the other motion device 116 can be guided on the second guide rail 115.

[0118] The third group G3, which can directly follow the direction of the second group G2 relative to the transport path T, can again be similarly formed with the first group G1, etc.

[0119] Groups such as the first group G1 and the second group G2 can be formed alternately along the direction of the transport path T.

[0120] Figure 6 Another device 110' is shown, which is modified in particular from device 110 as follows.

[0121] The control unit 132 can be configured to control the plurality of motion devices 116 such that a corresponding group G1, G2 consisting of four of the plurality of motion devices 116 jointly transports an object 12, preferably clamped between itself, along the transport path T to the transfer area of ​​the device 110 for transferring the object 12, for example, to another conveyor or processing station.

[0122] The object 12 is preferably held or supported in a four-point support by four motion devices 116 (or by their support sections 120) of the corresponding groups G1 and G2. The support sections 116 of the four motion devices 116 of the groups G1 and G2 can preferably support the object 12 at least partially at different height positions.

[0123] Figure 5 and Figure 6The devices 110 and 110' can assist in the transportation of objects 12 of different sizes by means that the arrangement of the three or four motion devices 116 of the corresponding groups G1, G2, G3 is adjusted by the control unit 132 according to the corresponding size of the object 12 to be transported.

[0124] This invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Various variations and modifications are possible, all of which utilize the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, each feature of this invention is disclosed independently of the others.

Claims

1. An apparatus for transporting an object (12) along a transport path (T), characterized in that, The device has: At least one guide rail (14); A first motion device (16) and a second motion device (18) for transporting an object (12), wherein the first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) are alternately and sequentially guided along the at least one guide rail (14) and can be driven individually, and Control unit (32), configured to operate the device in a first operating mode and a second operating mode, wherein: - In the first operating mode and the second operating mode, the object (12) is transported by a pair consisting of a first motion device (16) and a second motion device (18), respectively. - In the first operating mode, the pair is configured such that the first motion device (16) is positioned in front of the second motion device (18) of the corresponding pair in the direction of the transport path (T), and - In the second operating mode, the pair is configured such that the second motion device (18) is positioned in front of the first motion device (16) of the corresponding pair in the direction of the transport path (T). The first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) each have a first support section (20, 24) oriented along the direction of the transport path (T), and a second support section (22, 26) oriented opposite to the direction of the transport path (T), for supporting the object (12) during transport. The first support section (20) of the first motion device (16), the second support section (22) of the first motion device (16), the first support section (24) of the second motion device (18) and the second support section (26) of the second motion device (18) are implemented in the same structure.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device is used to transport a container along a transport path (T), wherein the first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) are alternately and sequentially guided along the at least one guide rail (14) and can be driven individually by means of a long stator linear driver or a short stator linear driver.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit (32) is configured to operate in the first operating mode for transporting an object (12) of a first specification and in the second operating mode for transporting an object (12) of a second specification different from the first specification.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) are different from each other.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) differ in the arrangement and / or configuration of the support for the object (12).

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) each have a first support section (20, 24) oriented in the direction of the transport path (T), which is V-shaped, annular, or planar, and a second support section (22, 26) oriented in the opposite direction of the transport path (T), which is V-shaped, annular, or planar, for supporting the object (12) during transport. in, In the first operating mode, the object (12) is supported between the second support section (22) of the first motion device (16) and the first support section (24) of the second motion device (18); and / or In the second operating mode, the object (12) is supported between the first support section (20) of the first motion device (16) and the second support section (26) of the second motion device (18).

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The first support section (20) of the first motion device (16) is offset backward relative to the direction of the transport path (T), and the second support section (26) of the second motion device (18) is offset backward relative to the direction opposite to the direction of the transport path (T); and / or The second support section (22) of the first motion device (16) protrudes in a direction opposite to the direction of the transport path (T), and the first support section (24) of the second motion device (18) protrudes in a direction relative to the direction of the transport path (T).

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) each have a support arm (28, 30), which supports the first support section (20, 24) and the second support section (22, 26) of the corresponding motion device (16, 18). The support arm (28) of the first motion device (16) and the support arm (30) of the second motion device (18) are bent in opposite directions.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) each have a support arm (28, 30), and the support arm supports the first support section (20, 24) and the second support section (22, 26) of the corresponding motion device (16, 18) at the same end of the support arm (28, 30). The support arm (28) of the first motion device (16) and the support arm (30) of the second motion device (18) are bent in opposite directions.

10. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: The second specification differs from the first specification in shape and / or size.

11. A processing apparatus for processing containers, comprising the means according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A method for transporting objects (12) of different sizes using the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The device has at least one guide rail (14) and a first motion device (16) and a second motion device (18) for transporting an object (12), wherein the first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18) are alternately and sequentially guided along the at least one guide rail (14) and can be driven individually by means of a long stator linear driver or a short stator linear driver, wherein the method includes: An object (12) of a first specification is transported by means of a pair consisting of the first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18), wherein the first motion device (16) is positioned in front of the second motion device (18) of the pair in the direction of the transport path (T); The object (12) having a second specification that is different from the first specification in size and / or shape is transported by means of a pair consisting of the first motion device (16) and the second motion device (18), wherein the second motion device (18) is positioned in front of the first motion device (16) of the pair in the direction of the transport path (T).

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