Stacking device for egg trays

Abstract

The invention relates to a stacking device for stacking or unstacking square egg trays supplied below a stacking position and to be discharged via a discharge conveyor, the stacking device comprising:-a receiving device for continuously receiving and carrying egg trays; -a stacking device located above the receiving device, comprising a channel adapted to be passed through by a platform loaded with egg trays and defined by a movable second carrying element; -a lifting device comprising a platform for lifting the egg trays upwards from the receiving device,-wherein the stacking device is configured such that the egg trays filled with eggs engage on the bottom sides of the other egg trays,-the second carrier element extends at least substantially horizontally and at right angles to the discharge transport direction, and are configured to move away from each other and toward each other in the transport direction in a horizontal plane. The invention also relates to a method for stacking and unstacking egg trays.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a stacking device suitable for stacking substantially square egg trays which are supplied or at least to be supplied below a stacking position via a supply conveyor in a supply transport direction and which are discharged from the stacking position via a discharge conveyor in a discharge transport direction, the stacking device comprising:

[0002] a receiving device configured to continuously receive and carry egg trays filled with eggs delivered by a supply conveyor, said receiving device comprising a transfer space suitable for the platform to move through and delimited on at least two sides by first carrying elements which, in use, carry the egg trays at their edges corresponding to the first carrying elements,

[0003] a stacking device which, in the stacking position, is located above the receiving device and comprises a passage extending substantially in a horizontal plane, the passage being suitable for transporting through the platform loaded with egg trays, the passage being located above the receiving space and being delimited on at least two sides extending parallel to each other by second movable carrying elements, the stacking device carrying corresponding edges of the egg trays during use by means of the second carrying elements, the second carrying elements being configured for enlarging and reducing the passage,

[0004] a lifting device comprising a platform extending at least substantially horizontally, the platform being carried by a carrying device configured to bring the egg tray upwards from the receiving device, wherein the platform has dimensions such that it can pass through the transfer space and the passage,

[0005] - wherein the stacking device is configured such that an egg tray filled with eggs brought upwards from the receiving device by means of the lifting device engages with its upper side on the bottom sides of other egg trays located in the stacking device, the second carrying element is then moved in such a way that the egg tray can pass through the passage, the lifting device with the egg tray(s) thus carried by the platform is then brought further upwards, the second carrying element then reduces the passage so that the egg tray is carried by the second carrying element when the lifting device is moved downwards. Background Art

[0006] Egg trays can be of various types and sizes. A widely used form is a square egg tray, in which the eggs are or at least will be packed in a matrix format of five rows and six columns. The thirty cups in which the eggs are placed or at least to be placed are formed as cups with a shape intermediate between an inverted truncated pyramid and an inverted dome. The stacking device according to the invention has been developed in particular for such an egg tray. However, it should be clear that egg trays of other shapes, for example egg trays with a matrix of four by five columns, can also be processed with the device according to the invention, as is done with known devices. This is possible because in most cases, even in the case of non-square, for example rectangular egg trays, the orientation and spacing of the eggs are consistent with the orientation and spacing in the familiar five by six square egg trays.

[0007] A known stacking device of the type described above has four strips as second bearing elements, which define a rectangle, each of which is hinged about a horizontal axis. Two second bearing elements are fitted to and rest on the horizontal edges of the stacking position. Two other second bearing elements extend at right angles to the discharge transport direction and rest with their ends on the second bearing elements mentioned in the preceding sentence. When the egg tray is brought upward by the lifting device, the lifting device pushes the four second bearing elements upward via the egg tray so that the passage remains hinged open on four sides. When the egg tray has passed sufficiently through the passage, the hinged strips fall under the action of gravity to their original position, in which they rest on the edges of the stacking position. The lifting device then moves downward and the lowest egg tray rests on the four strips. A disadvantage of the known device is that the action of the second bearing elements is prone to error. The second bearing elements arranged at right angles to the discharge transport direction cannot fall earlier than the second bearing elements carried by and resting on the edges of the stacking position, because once this happens they will completely tilt downwards. Furthermore, the known second carrying elements can only carry egg trays above their narrow bottom edge. Egg trays are often made of bulk material which is very fragile and becomes very weak if it becomes only slightly wet. This has a considerable negative impact on the carrying capacity of the thin bottom edge of the egg tray. When a stack of egg trays falls downwards in the device, this creates a lot of trash. The device must be kept clean because the food is packaged therein. Summary of the invention

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a stacking device of the type disclosed in the preamble, which can carry a stack of egg trays in a more reliable and less error-prone manner. The invention achieves this object in that the second carrying elements extend at least substantially horizontally and at right angles to the discharge transport direction and are configured to move away from and towards each other in a horizontal plane along the transport direction. The movement of the second carrying elements can be motor-controlled and is therefore less error-prone than known devices, in which the movement of the second carrying elements depends on contact with the egg tray and on gravity. In addition, the present invention provides the possibility of better positioning of the second carrying elements and a greater degree of freedom in their design, so that they can be better designed according to their function. Another advantageous effect is that the channel only needs to be minimally wider than the corresponding dimensions of the egg tray in a direction at right angles to the discharge transport direction, and it can also remain without uncontrolled moving parts. Another advantageous effect is that the tray only needs to extend minimally above the horizontal plane of the upper transfer space, because the carrying elements move a small distance from each other in the same horizontal plane.

[0009] If the second carrying elements are elongated, they can carry egg trays over a relatively large length, substantially over their entire length or width, without having to be bulky.

[0010] Preferably, the second support element has a longitudinal direction extending at right angles to the discharge transport direction and a transverse direction which extend obliquely towards each other when viewed from below. The angle of inclination preferably corresponds approximately to the angle of inclination of the corresponding edge of the egg tray to be carried in such a way that the second support element can engage in a reliable manner over a portion of or almost the entire height of the corresponding edge of the egg tray.

[0011] A strong and secure engagement is further enhanced if the second carrier element has a profile corresponding to the inside of the side edge of the egg tray on the side extending obliquely upwards. The second carrier element can comprise a strip extending transversely to the discharge transport direction in use and having, for example, six obliquely upwards extending lips.

[0012] Preferably, the two first bearing elements extend in the supply transport direction. Thus, the respective two first bearing elements can be mounted in the extension of the supply transport device so that the egg tray can be pushed as is by the supply conveyor belt with the side edges on the respective two first bearing elements.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the platform has a rectangular, preferably square, perimeter. This shape corresponds to the shape of the five by six egg trays that are used the most, and can therefore support them well. However, other shapes are also possible, such as a rectangular shape in which the length is different from the width, or an octagonal or circular shape.

[0014] In order to allow the platform to pass through transfer spaces and passages, and in particular the first load-bearing element and the second load-bearing element, the periphery of the platform has a length and a width that are in each case smaller than the length and width of a five by six pallet [long-width pallet], respectively, wherein the length and / or width are preferably smaller than 250 mm, more preferably smaller than 220 mm.

[0015] Preferably, the platform is provided with an upwardly protruding protrusion on its upper side, which is configured to be able to engage with the bottom side of the egg tray to be carried in two positions rotated 90 degrees around the vertical axis. Thus, the egg tray carried on the platform can be carried and moved to the stacking position in a more securely aligned and possibly better aligned manner relative to the egg trays in the stacking position.

[0016] Preferably, the carrying device comprises a vertically extending elongated lifting element arranged on the bottom side of the platform. Accordingly, upward and downward movements can be easily transmitted to the platform by means of a lifting drive known per se, and the weight to be transferred can be limited.

[0017] If the carrying device is configured for rotating the platform about a vertical axis, the platform can rotate the egg tray through an angle of 90 degrees. This is advantageous since the egg platforms should always be stacked in a manner rotated 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the discharge transport comprises an endless belt on which the stacked egg trays are placed. If the stack has reached the following height, i.e. if the desired number of egg trays has been stacked, the rear bracket remains open and the front holder is lowered accordingly. In this way, the stack is guided away.

[0019] Preferably, the receiving device and / or the stacking position extend at least substantially in a horizontal plane. However, for example, when the supply or discharge transport device is oriented obliquely relative to the horizontal plane, the receiving device and / or the stacking position can extend at an angle relative to the horizontal plane.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment according to the invention, the supply conveyor comprises at least a first conveyor section and a second conveyor section, which extend at a distance from each other and in parallel with each other, or wherein the supply conveyor comprises three parallel belts, which extend through the space in a manner independent of each other and in parallel with each other, and wherein between the first conveyor section and the second conveyor section, or in the two spaces, two vertical elements are provided, which in a first supply orientation of the egg tray serve as stops for two cups of the egg tray, and which in a second discharge orientation of the egg tray rotated 90 degrees relative to the first orientation are located between two adjacent cups, so that the supplied egg tray is stopped by the vertical elements to be clamped by the lifting device, and the stacked egg trays stored by the lifting device can pass through the vertical elements unhindered. This has the advantage that the supply conveyor does not have to be stopped whenever the supplied egg tray is located just above the lifting device, and the lifting device does not have to be activated whenever the corresponding egg tray is lifted from the supply conveyor by the lifting device. Each egg tray is supplied in the same orientation and rotated 90 degrees below the already stacked egg trays, so that the lowermost egg tray of the stack is always rotated 90 degrees relative to the supply orientation. Since the number of columns of egg trays is always different from the number of rows, the vertical elements are now located between two adjacent columns so that the vertical elements allow the stacked trays to pass through.

[0021] The vertical element can also be applied in a manner independent of the first aspect of the present invention. Then, the vertical element is protected as a second invention content, which is defined as:

[0022] A stacking device, which is suitable for stacking substantially square egg trays, which are supplied or at least to be supplied below a stacking position via a supply conveyor in a supply transport direction and are discharged from the stacking position via a discharge conveyor in a discharge transport direction, the stacking device comprising:

[0023] a receiving device configured to continuously receive and carry egg trays filled with eggs delivered by a supply conveyor, said receiving device comprising a transfer space suitable for the platform to move through and delimited on at least two sides by first carrying elements which, in use, carry the egg trays at their edges corresponding to the first carrying elements,

[0024] a stacking device which, in the stacking position, is located above the receiving device and comprises a passage extending substantially in a horizontal plane, the passage being suitable for transporting through the platform loaded with egg trays, the passage being located above the receiving space and being delimited on at least two sides extending parallel to each other by second movable carrying elements, the stacking device carrying corresponding edges of the egg trays during use by means of the second carrying elements, the second carrying elements being configured for enlarging and reducing the passage,

[0025] a lifting device comprising a platform extending at least substantially horizontally, the platform being carried by a carrying device configured to bring the egg tray upwards from the receiving device, wherein the platform has dimensions such that it can pass through the transfer space and the passage,

[0026] - wherein the stacking device is configured such that an egg tray filled with eggs brought upwards from the receiving device by means of the lifting device engages with its upper side on the bottom sides of other egg trays located in the stacking device, the second carrying element is then moved in such a way that the egg tray can pass through the passage, the lifting device with the egg tray(s) carried thereby by the platform is then brought further upwards, the passage is then reduced by the second carrying element so that the egg tray is carried by the second carrying element when the lifting device is moved downwards,

[0027] The supply conveyor comprises at least a first part conveyor and a second part conveyor, which extend at a distance from each other and in parallel with each other, or wherein the supply conveyor comprises three parallel belts, which extend through the space in a manner independent of each other and in parallel with each other, and wherein two vertical elements are provided between the first part conveyor and the second part conveyor, or in the two spaces, which vertical elements serve as stops for two cups of the egg tray in a first supply orientation of the egg tray, and which are located between two adjacent cups in a second discharge orientation of the egg tray rotated 90 degrees relative to the first orientation in such a manner that the supplied egg tray is stopped by the vertical elements so as to be clamped by the lifting device, and the stacked egg trays stored by the lifting device can pass through the vertical elements unhindered.

[0028] In a stacking device comprising at least a first conveyor section and a second conveyor section extending at a distance from and parallel to each other, the vertical elements preferably comprise cams which are articulated towards each other in such a way that in the articulated state they allow unhindered passage of egg trays on the supply conveyor in the direction of the discharge conveyor. The cams can be preloaded in the vertical state.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the stacking device comprises a third partial conveyor, which is configured to be placed between the first partial conveyor and the second partial conveyor, for forming an at least substantially continuous conveyor belt extending transversely to the transport direction of the supply conveyor. In the state with three partial conveyors, the supply conveyor conveys packages with a narrower mutual distance than the first partial conveyor and the second partial conveyor.

[0030] Preferably, the vertical elements are located below the height of the belt of the partial conveyor in their articulated state towards each other. Thus, they do not constitute an obstacle for the egg trays located at the partial conveyor and, in use of a third partial conveyor, the vertical elements can be located below the belt of said third partial conveyor, at least the part of the belt carrying the egg trays.

[0031] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a method for stacking egg trays comprising the following steps:

[0032] - supplying egg trays filled with eggs to a receiving device, which is located below the stacking position of the stacking device and comprises a passage, said receiving device comprising a transfer space suitable for the platform to be moved through and which is delimited on at least two sides by first carrying elements which, in use, carry the egg trays at their edges corresponding to the first carrying elements,

[0033] - moving the egg tray upwards towards the stacking device by means of a lifting device, the lifting device comprising a platform extending at least substantially horizontally, the platform being carried by the carrying device, wherein the platform has dimensions such that the platform can pass through the transfer space and the passage,

[0034] - transporting the platform loaded with egg trays through a channel, wherein the channel is defined on at least two sides extending parallel to each other by movable second carrying elements in order to carry the edges of the egg trays corresponding to the second carrying elements,

[0035] - an egg tray filled with eggs is brought upwards by means of a lifting device so that its upper side engages on the underside of other egg trays located in the stacking device,

[0036] - moving the second carrying element in such a way that the egg tray can pass through the passage,

[0037] - The egg tray carried by the platform is further lifted upwards by means of a lifting device,

[0038] - reducing the channel by means of a second carrier element,

[0039] - moving the lifting device downwards and transferring the egg tray to the second carrying element so that the egg tray is carried by the second carrying element,

[0040] The invention is characterized in that the second support elements extend at least substantially horizontally and at right angles to the discharge transport direction and are movable in a horizontal plane away from and towards each other in the transport direction for increasing and decreasing the passage. The invention aims to solve the problems of the prior art corresponding to the first aspect and has the advantages corresponding to the first aspect.

[0041] It is therefore preferred that the egg trays are stacked here by means of a stacking device according to the first aspect of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings of preferred embodiments of the device according to the invention. The drawings and the description do not have any limiting effect on the scope of protection of the invention, which is only limited by the attached claims. The drawings show:

[0043] Figure 1a shows a perspective view of a stacking device for egg trays, in which a device according to the invention is incorporated;

[0044] Figure 1b Shown from Figure 1a A perspective view of a stacking device filled with egg trays to be stacked and to be stacked;

[0045] Figure 2a A bottom view of an egg tray is shown;

[0046] Figure 2b Shown from Figure 2a Bottom view of the egg tray when it is rotated 90 degrees;

[0047] Figure 3a shows a top view of a platform having an upwardly projecting protrusion and a support point;

[0048] Figure 3b Shown from Figure 3a A top view of a platform having an upwardly projecting protrusion and support points for carrying an egg tray that is rotated 90 degrees;

[0049] Figure 3c shows a top view of a platform having holes extending through the platform and support points;

[0050] Figure 3d Shown from Figure 3c a top view of a platform with holes extending through the platform and support points for egg trays rotated 90 degrees;

[0051] Figure 4a shows a perspective bottom view (rotated 180 degrees) of a platform having upwardly projecting projections engaged on an egg tray;

[0052] Figure 4b shows a perspective bottom view (rotated 180 degrees) of a platform having an aperture extending through the platform engaged on an egg tray;

[0053] Figure 5 A perspective view of a lifting device is shown;

[0054] Figure 6ashows a side view of a stack of egg trays supported by front and rear brackets;

[0055] Figure 6b A perspective view of a carrying device for carrying egg trays is shown, a portion of which is composed of Figure 6a The bracket is formed;

[0056] Figure 6c shows a perspective view of a portion of a stacking device in which a platform and a bracket can be seen; Figure 7a to Figure 7h shows a side view of an egg stacker in successive steps during stacking of egg trays;

[0057] Figure 8a , Figure 8b A schematic front view of a lifting device with stacked egg trays is shown during the supply of egg trays and during the discharge of a stack of egg trays. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Now look at the picture. Figure 1a and Figure 1b A perspective view of an empty stacking device 1 for egg trays, in which the device according to the invention is contained, and a perspective view of the stacking device 1 filled with stacked egg trays 9 and egg trays 8 to be stacked are shown respectively. The stacking device comprises a conveyor belt 2 as a supply conveyor, which forms part of a supply transport device in which eggs are packed in egg trays in a manner known per se. In use, egg trays 8 to be stacked, in this case filled with five rows and six columns of eggs, are supplied via the conveyor belt 2. The egg trays enter the receiving device 3, where they are brought upwards by the lifting device 4 to the stacked egg trays 9 carried by the second carrying elements in the form of the front bracket 5 and the rear bracket 6. The egg trays 9 stacked to the desired height are deposited by the lifting device 4 on the conveyor belt 2, with which the separated egg trays are supplied, and the conveyor belt 2 transports the stacked egg trays to a discharge conveyor in the form of a conveyor belt 7, via which the stacked egg trays 9 are guided away. The discharge conveyor forms part of a discharge transport device which drives the conveyor belt 7 and by means of which the stacked egg trays 9 can be fed, for example, to a palletizing device.

[0059] Figure 2a and Figure 2b A bottom view of an egg tray 20 is shown. The egg tray has a matrix pattern of five rows 21a-21e and six columns 22a-22f with cups 23 in which eggs are placed during use. Note that because the bottom side of the egg tray 20 is shown here, the eggs are on the side of the figure that is turned over from the side being viewed. Figure 2b The egg tray is shown relative to Figure 2aThe egg tray 20 is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise. Between the cups 23 there is a rise 24 (in these figures, facing away from the viewer) which, in the case of a stacked egg tray 9, carries the cups 23 of the egg tray 20 stacked thereon. Figure 2b The egg trays 20 are stacked in an orientation having a Figure 2a The orientation of the egg tray 20 when coming from Figure 2a The cup 23 is supported on the Figure 2b The cups 23 are always located in both rows 21b, 21c or 21d and columns 22b, 22c, 22d or 22e. Figure 2a and Figure 2b The black dot is marked in FIG. 1 , which contacts the platform 25 or 30 during use. Figure 3a to Figure 3d Explain in more detail. Figure 3a and Figure 3b A top view of a platform 25 for carrying and for raising and lowering egg trays is shown. The flat base surface 26 and the projection 27 of the platform 25 can be seen in the top view, the projection 27 having its base 28 and a flat upper surface 29. Figure 3a and Figure 3b In FIG. 1 , the contact points in the base surface which, in use, come into contact with the cups 23 of the egg tray are also marked with black dots. Figure 3a and Figure 3b , wherein the support points for the egg trays 20 turned 90 degrees are shown. In use, in the stacking device described in this document, the egg trays 20 are always supplied in the same orientation and the platform 25 turned 90 degrees each time engages on the next egg tray 20. The platform 25 can of course also be used with a stacking device in which the egg trays 20 are supplied turned 90 degrees each time.

[0060] Figure 3c and Figure 3d A top view of a platform 30 for carrying and for raising and lowering egg trays is shown. The flat base surface 31 and through holes 32 in the platform 30 can be seen in the top view. Figure 3c In FIG. 1 , the hole 32a in the base surface is marked with a black line, which hole receives the cup 23 of the egg tray 20 in use. Figure 3d In FIG. 1 , the hole 32b in the base surface is marked with a black line, which hole receives the cup 23 of the egg tray 20 in use. Figure 3c and Figure 3d, wherein the platform 30 is shown in the same orientation, wherein the support points for the egg tray 20 turned by 90 degrees are shown. In use, in the stacking device described in this document, successive egg trays 20 are always supplied in the same orientation, and the platform 30 engages on the next egg tray 20 each time turned by 90 degrees. Of course, the platform 30 can also be used with a stacking device, in which the egg trays 20 are supplied each time turned by 90 degrees. Instead of a through hole, a blind hole can also be provided in the platform 30, which is formed at least as a cup in which an egg tray can be received.

[0061] Figure 4a A perspective bottom view (rotated 180 degrees) of a platform 25 supporting an egg tray 20 is shown (because the configuration is photographed in an inverted manner, the bottom ends of the eggs are not in contact with the cups. It should be clear, however, that if the configuration is reversed and the egg tray 20 is located on the platform 25, the eggs rest in the cups 23). In this figure it can be seen that some of the cups 23 of the egg tray 20 rest on the flat base surface 26 of the platform 25. On their sides, projections 27 of the egg tray 20 relative to the platform 25 help centering (or vice versa), not only in the state where the egg tray 20 is completely resting on the platform 25, but of course also when the platform 25 is brought under the egg tray 20. The upper surface of the projections 27 is not in contact with the egg tray 20.

[0062] Figure 4b A perspective bottom view of a platform 30 is shown, wherein holes 32a, 32b extend through the platform 30 supporting the egg tray 20. In this figure it can be seen that some of the cups 23 of the egg tray 20 rest on the edges of the holes 32a of the platform 30. The holes 32a center the cups 23 of the egg tray 20 relative to the platform 30, not only in a state where the egg tray 20 is completely resting on the platform 30, but of course also when the platform 30 is brought under the egg tray 23.

[0063] Since the action principle of the lifting device of the platform 30 having the hole extending through the platform corresponds to the action principle of the platform 25 having the protrusion protruding upward, the description of the action is not always repeated every time in the embodiments.

[0064] Figure 5A perspective view of a lifting device 40 is shown. The lifting device 40 has a driven guide wheel 41 that rotates or is at least rotatable about a rotation axis 50. The guide wheel 41 is of solid construction in this embodiment. A running surface 42 is provided on the outer circumference of the guide wheel 41, which shows a jump in distance (diameter) to the rotation axis of the guide wheel 41. A narrow groove 43 is provided in the running surface 42, which extends from the center of the running surface 42 of the guide wheel 41 in the circumferential direction at the point where the diameter suddenly increases (43a) and then deflects obliquely toward the outside of the running surface 42 (43b). An elliptical groove 45 is provided in the side surface 44 of the guide wheel 41.

[0065] The platform 25 is carried by a lifting element in the form of a rod 46. Below the rod 46 there is a cam gear 47 extending at right angles to the rod 46, the cam gear 47 having a cam 48 protruding outwards in the plane of the cam gear 47. Beside the side of the guide wheel 41 there is a rocker arm 49 having a shaft 50 extending at right angles to the plane of the guide wheel 41 into the oval groove 45. The rocker arm 49 is connected to a transmission 51 which carries the rod 46 with the cam gear 47.

[0066] When the guide wheel 41 rotates, the rocker arm 49 performs a rocking motion, which is converted into a vertical up-and-down motion of the rod 46 together with the platform 25 and the cam gear 47 via the transmission device 51. When the rod 46 and the platform 25 are at or at least close to the highest point, the slot 43 of the guide wheel 41 engages with one of the cams 48 of the cam gear 47. Then, when the guide wheel 41 rotates further, the deflection portion 43b moves the corresponding cam 47 laterally, causing the rod 46 to rotate 90 degrees together with the platform 25. Then, the guide wheel 41 rotates again, causing the rocker arm 49 to move the rod 46 downward again via the transmission device 51.

[0067] Figure 6a The stacked egg trays 9 are shown in a side view. In FIG. 6 it can be seen that the egg trays 20 stacked on each other are oriented in a manner that they are rotated a quarter of a turn, i.e. 90 degrees, relative to each other. Only the outermost row 21e of eggs in the upper egg tray 20 can be seen. In the egg tray 20 located below it, the outermost column 22a of eggs can be seen. In the egg tray 20 located below it, the outermost row of eggs (21a, in Figure 6a The egg tray 20 (not visible in the figure) is blocked behind by the egg tray 20 pressed on top. In the egg tray 20 located below it, the outermost row 22f of eggs is visible again. The bottom egg tray is carried by the front bracket 5 and the rear bracket 6, which are Figure 6b is shown in more detail in .

[0068] Figure 6bA perspective view of a carrying device 60 for carrying egg trays 20 is shown. The carrying device 60 has a frame 61 supporting the bracket 5. During the steps for stacking the egg trays 20, the frame 61 is moved back and forth horizontally relative to the stacked egg trays 9, as will be explained in more detail later. It can be clearly seen that the front bracket 5 comprises a crossbeam 62 and a lip 63 extending obliquely upward from the crossbeam 62. The lip 63 corresponds in shape to the raised portion (24, at the edge of the egg tray 20) on the edge of the egg tray 20. Figure 6b The inclined form of the lip 63 substantially corresponds to the protrusion (24, in Figure 6b The shape of the lip can be adapted to the egg tray to be carried.

[0069] Now watch it again Figure 6a , the crossbars 62 and outer lips 63 of the front and rear brackets 5, 6 are visible. The lips 63 engage the inside of the raised portion 24 of the bottom egg tray 20 so that the egg tray 20 can be reliably carried by the lips 63 over a relatively large area thereof, at least compared to known arrangements in which the bottom egg tray 20 rests on horizontal strips with only the underside of the edges of the egg tray 20.

[0070] Figure 6c A perspective view of a portion of a packaging device 1 is shown, in which a platform 25 and brackets 5, 6 are visible. The platform 25 has a smaller area than the channel defined by the brackets 5, 6 and by the side edges 52, 53 of the discharge transport 54. Figure 6c The shape of the lip 63 of the bracket 5, 6 can be seen in FIG.

[0071] Figure 7a to Figure 7h Shown is a side view of a packaging device 1 for eggs in a successive step during the stacking of egg trays 20. In particular, it follows the movement of the egg trays 20* during the successive steps.

[0072] Figure 7a The initial state of the packaging device 1 is shown. An egg tray 20* filled with eggs is brought into the receiving device 3 via a conveyor belt (not shown in FIG. 7 ) and a first conveyor 7a and a second conveyor 7b. The egg tray 20*, like the "next" egg tray 20 to be stacked after the egg tray 20*, is oriented with a row 21 of eggs in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor belt or in the transport direction. The platform 25 of the lifting device 40 is located at a distance directly below the egg tray 20*. The egg tray 20* is located directly below the stacked egg trays 9. The orientation of the bottom egg tray 20 in the stack is rotated 90 degrees relative to the egg platform 20*.

[0073] Figure 7bThe next step is shown. The egg tray 20* is gripped by the platform 25 on the bottom side and brought upward so that the egg tray 20* engages with the upper side on the "previous" egg tray 20, stacking one cycle ahead. The cups 23 of the previous egg tray are supported on the raised portion 24 of the egg tray 20*. The front bracket 5 and the rear bracket 6 below the previous egg tray 20 can now be removed, as the egg tray 20* and the egg trays stacked above are carried by the platform 25.

[0074] exist Figure 7c It can be seen in FIG. 1 that the racks 5 , 6 are actually moved aside so that the egg tray 20 * can pass through the passage defined by the racks 5 , 6 and the side walls of the discharge transport.

[0075] exist Figure 7d It can be seen in FIG. 1 that the stacked egg trays 9 (of which the egg trays 20 * now form a part) are brought further upwards by the platform 25 so that the stacked egg trays 9 and the platform 25 protrude above the rest of the packaging device 1 .

[0076] exist Figure 7e It can be seen in FIG. 1 that the platform 25 with the stacked egg trays 9 thereon is rotated at an angle of 45 degrees.

[0077] exist Figure 7f In the figure, platform 25 is relative to Figure 7d The egg tray 20* is now at the bottom and is now oriented in such a way that the row 21 of eggs is at right angles to the original orientation and therefore also to the transport direction. The egg tray 20* now has a Figure 7a The egg tray 20 that is located at the bottom of the stacked egg trays 9 is oriented in the same manner. Therefore, the next egg tray 20 with a row in the transport direction can be stacked below the egg tray 20 *.

[0078] exist Figure 7g In the process, the supports 5, 6 are moved again to their starting position and the platform 25 is moved downwards, wherein the supports 5, 6 engage in the raised sections 24 of the egg trays 20*, so that the stacked egg trays 9 are reliably carried again.

[0079] exist Figure 7h In the packaging device, the state corresponds to Figure 7a , but the stack of egg trays is now stacked one level higher, since egg tray 20* now forms the lowest egg tray. This cycle can now be repeated until the desired number of egg trays 20 are stacked. Each cycle of steps 7a to 7g is identical, at least with respect to the movement of the lifting device.

[0080] When the stack of egg trays has reached the desired height, after the last egg tray forms part of the stacked egg trays 9, the crossbar 62 remains in the open state so that its lip 63 does not engage on the lowest egg tray. After the last egg tray has been placed under the already stacked egg trays 9, the platform 25 is of course still rotated 90 degrees. The lifting device 4 drops down with the stacked egg trays 9 and deposits the stacked egg trays 9 on the conveyor, in this case on the part conveyors 7a, 7b that supply the last (lowest) egg tray. The part conveyors transport the stacked egg trays 9 further in the transport direction under their stacking devices so that a new cycle can begin.

[0081] Figure 8a and Figure 8b A schematic front view of a lifting device with stacked egg trays 9, supply egg trays 8 or discharge stacked egg trays 9 is shown, wherein the action of a vertical element in this case in the form of a cam 55 blocks the passage for the egg trays 8 and remains open for the stacked egg trays 9. Figure 8a Egg trays 8 are shown being supplied by the section conveyors 7a, 7b. Cams 55 extend above the section conveyors 7a, 7b so that they are located in the conveyor track of the egg trays 8. The cams 55 block the egg trays 8 because they are located in the path of their respective cups 23. However, when the section conveyors 7a, 7b continue to run, the egg trays 8 are stationary and are then gripped by the platform 25 and brought upwards as described above.

[0082] After the stacked egg trays 9 have reached the desired height, the platform 25 carries the stacked egg trays 9 downwards in order to deposit the stacked egg trays 9 on the partial conveyors 7a, 7b, see Figure 8b Since during stacking the lowest egg tray is rotated 90 degrees each time after engaging with the egg tray located above it, the lowest egg tray, when deposited on the part conveyor 7a, 7b, is in another orientation than during the supply of said egg trays. Figure 8b 55, where the cam 55, still in the same position, is positioned exactly between the cups 23 of the lowest egg tray. Since the partial conveyors 7a, 7b are still running, they engage on the stacked egg trays 9 and move the stacked egg trays 9 further in the transport direction. The elevation 24 in the lowest egg tray is formed like a tunnel so that the egg tray can pass the cam 55 without any problems. It should be clear that if a third partial conveyor (not shown here) also extends between the cams 55, the action is the same.

[0083] The invention has been described above with reference to only one embodiment of the invention. It should be clear that many variations are conceivable within the scope of protection of the invention, which is defined by the claims set out below.

[0084] It is important for the reader and for determining the scope of protection of the device to realize that the invention is explained in the drawings and the description with the aid of egg trays for 30 eggs (a matrix of five rows and six columns), but egg trays with some other configuration can also be stacked with the device. This also applies to the application of the method. Thus, for example, trays with a matrix of four by five cups can also be processed with the same packaging device and according to one and the same method. At most, only some dimensions in the device need to be adjusted. The same applies to the platform. The shape of the platform can be adapted, as long as it has sufficient load-bearing area to reliably carry the egg tray and has a pattern of protrusions that matches the pattern shown and described in this document. The mutual distance between the protrusions can be increased or decreased proportionally, as egg trays with a matching increased or reduced pattern are to be processed.

[0085] Description of Reference Numerals

[0086] 1 Packaging device for eggs

[0087] 2 Conveyor belt

[0088] 3 Receiving device

[0089] 4 Lifting device

[0090] 5 Front bracket

[0091] 6 Rear bracket

[0092] 7. Conveyor Belt

[0093] 7a, 7b Partial Transmitter

[0094] 8 Egg trays ready to be stacked

[0095] 9 stacked egg trays

[0096] 20 Egg Tray

[0097] Rows of 21a to 21e egg cups

[0098] Columns of egg cups 22a to 22f

[0099] 23 Egg Tray Cups

[0100] 24 Raised part of egg tray

[0101] 25 Platform

[0102] 26 Base surface

[0103] 27 Protrusion

[0104] 28 base

[0105] 29 Upper surface

[0106] 40 Lifting device

[0107] 41 Guide wheel

[0108] 42 Running surface of guide wheel 41

[0109] 43 Slot

[0110] 43a Right portion of slot 43

[0111] 43b Deflection of slot 43

[0112] 44 Side surface

[0113] 45 slots

[0114] 46 strokes

[0115] 47 Cam gear

[0116] 48 Cam

[0117] 49 Rocker arm

[0118] 50 Rocker arm shaft

[0119] 51 Transmission

[0120] 52 Side edge of discharge transport device

[0121] 53 Side edge of ejector transport

[0122] 54 Discharge transport device

[0123] 55 Cam

[0124] 60 Carrying device

[0125] 61 Frame of the carrying device

[0126] 62 Beam

[0127] 63 lips

Claims

1. A stacking device, adapted to stack substantially square egg trays, which are supplied or at least to be supplied below a stacking position via a supply conveyor in a supply transport direction and are discharged from the stacking position via a discharge conveyor in a discharge transport direction, the stacking device comprising: a receiving device configured to continuously receive and carry egg trays filled with eggs delivered by the supply conveyor, the receiving device comprising a transfer space suitable for the platform to move through and delimited on at least two sides by first carrying elements which, in use, carry the egg trays with their edges corresponding to the first carrying elements, a stacking device, which in the stacking position is located above the receiving device, comprises a passage extending substantially in a horizontal plane, the passage being suitable for transporting through the platform loaded with egg trays, the passage being located above the receiving space and being delimited on at least two sides extending parallel to each other by movable second carrying elements, the stacking device carrying the corresponding edges of the egg trays by means of the second carrying elements during use, and the second carrying elements being configured for enlarging and reducing the passage, a lifting device comprising a platform extending at least substantially horizontally, the platform being carried by a carrying device configured to bring the egg tray upwards from the receiving device, wherein the platform has dimensions such that the platform can pass through the transfer space and the passage, - wherein the stacking device is configured such that an egg tray filled with eggs brought upwards from the receiving device by means of the lifting device engages with its upper side on the bottom sides of other egg trays located in the stacking device, and then the second carrying element is moved in such a way that the egg tray can pass through the passage, and then the lifting device with the one or more egg trays carried thereby by the platform is brought further upwards, and then the second carrying element reduces the passage so that the egg tray is carried by the second carrying element when the lifting device is moved downwards, It is characterized in that the second support elements extend at least substantially horizontally and at right angles to the discharge transport direction and are designed to be moved away from and toward each other in a horizontal plane along the transport direction.

2. The stacking device according to claim 1, wherein the second support element is elongated.

3. A stacking device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second supporting element has a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction extending at right angles to the discharge transport direction, and the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction extend obliquely towards each other when viewed from bottom to top.

4. Stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second carrying element has, on a side extending obliquely upwards, a contour corresponding to the inner side of a side edge of an egg tray.

5. Stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein two first support elements extend in the supply transport direction.

6. Stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said platform has a rectangular, preferably square, perimeter.

7. A stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the periphery of the platform has a length and a width, each of which is less than 400 mm, wherein the length and / or the width is preferably less than 250 mm, more preferably less than 220 mm.

8. Stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said platform is provided on its upper side with an upwardly projecting protrusion configured to engage with the bottom side of an egg tray to be carried in two positions rotated 90 degrees about a vertical axis.

9. Stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said carrying means comprise vertically extending elongated lifting elements arranged on the bottom side of said platform.

10. Stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said carrying means are configured for rotating said platform around a vertical axis.

11. Stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said discharge transport device comprises an endless belt.

12. Stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving device and / or the stacking location extend at least substantially in a horizontal plane.

13. A stacking device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the supply conveyor comprises at least a first part conveyor and a second part conveyor, the first part conveyor and the second part conveyor extending at a distance from each other and parallel to each other, or wherein the supply conveyor comprises three parallel belts extending through the space independently of each other and parallel to each other, and wherein two vertical elements are provided between the first part conveyor and the second part conveyor, or in the two spaces, the vertical elements serving as stops for two cups of the egg tray in a first supply orientation of the egg tray, and the vertical elements being located between two adjacent cups in a second discharge orientation of the egg tray rotated 90 degrees relative to the first orientation, so that the supplied egg tray is stopped by the vertical elements to be clamped by the lifting device, and the stacked egg trays stored by the lifting device can pass through the vertical elements unhindered.

14. Stacking device according to claim 13, comprising at least a first conveyor section and a second conveyor section extending at a distance from each other and parallel to each other, wherein the vertical elements comprise cams which are articulated towards each other in such a way that in the articulated state the cams allow the egg trays to pass unhindered on the supply conveyor in the direction of the discharge conveyor.

15. The stacking device according to claim 13 or 14 comprises a third part conveyor, which is configured to be placed between the first part conveyor and the second part conveyor to form an at least substantially continuous conveyor belt extending transversely to the transport direction of the supply conveyor.

16. Stacking device according to claims 14 and 15, wherein the vertical elements, in the state articulated towards each other, are located below the height of the belt of the partial conveyor.

17. A method for stacking egg trays, comprising the steps of: - supplying egg trays filled with eggs to a receiving device, which is located below the stacking position of the stacking device and comprises a passage, said receiving device comprising a transfer space, which is suitable for the platform to be moved through and which is delimited on at least two sides by first carrying elements which, in use, carry the egg trays at an edge corresponding to the first carrying element, - moving the egg tray upwards towards the stacking device by means of a lifting device, the lifting device comprising a platform extending at least substantially horizontally, the platform being carried by a carrying device, wherein the platform has dimensions such that the platform can pass through the transfer space and the passage, - transporting the platform loaded with egg trays through the channel, wherein the channel is defined on at least two sides extending parallel to each other by movable second carrying elements in order to carry the egg trays at their edges corresponding to the second carrying elements, - the egg tray filled with eggs is brought upwards by means of the lifting device so that its upper side engages on the bottom sides of other egg trays located in the stacking device, - moving the second carrying element in such a way as to enable the egg tray to pass through the passage, - further lifting the egg tray carried by the platform upwards by means of the lifting device, - reducing the channel by means of the second carrier element, - moving the lifting device downwards and transferring the egg tray to the second carrying element so that the egg tray is carried by the second carrying element, It is characterized in that the second support elements extend at least substantially horizontally and at right angles to the discharge transport direction and are movable in a horizontal plane in the transport direction away from and towards each other for enlarging and reducing the channel.

18. Method according to claim 17, wherein the egg trays are stacked by means of a stacking device according to one or more of claims 1 to 16.

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