Star wheel conveyor for conveying containers in beverage filling system

Abstract

The invention relates to a star wheel conveyor (1) for conveying containers (78), preferably for conveying containers (78) in a beverage filling system, comprising a conveyor section (2) rotatable about a central axis of rotation (4) and at least one pair of pocket arms (8), at least one pair of pocket arms (8) is directed outwardly with respect to the axis of rotation (4) so as to form a pocket (6) at least partially receiving a container (78) to be conveyed, each pocket arm (8) being arranged on the circumference of the conveyor section (2) and being pivotable about a pivot axis (24) oriented substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (4), the pocket arms (8) being engaged with an adjustment member (28), the adjusting element (28) is arranged on the conveyor section (2) and is radially displaceable with respect to the axis of rotation (4) such that the pocket width (13) of the pocket (6) can be adjusted by displacing the adjusting element (28) in the radial direction (R).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a star wheel conveyor for conveying containers, such as for conveying containers in a beverage filling system, the star wheel conveyor having a plurality of recesses that are rigid during conveying operation. Background Technology

[0002] Star wheel conveyors are typically used on automated processing lines of beverage filling systems, such as at the end of the production line, to separate filled and sealed containers at a given speed.

[0003] In order to specify a speed, i.e. the frequency of container transfer, or to specify the distance between two consecutive containers, the star wheel conveyor includes a plurality of container receiving sections evenly distributed around the circumference of the conveyor wheel, in which the containers to be conveyed are received during the conveying process by the star wheel conveyor.

[0004] In principle, the two fundamentally different types of star wheel conveyors can be distinguished by the nature of their container holders, namely, container holders that are in the form of clamps on the one hand, and container holders that are in the form of recesses on the other hand.

[0005] The first type of star wheel conveyor has a container holder configured as an active or passive clamp. These clamps grip the container to be conveyed by actively or passively pivoting two clamping arms that can pivot relative to each other between open and closed positions during the conveying operation of the star wheel conveyor, i.e., during the conveying of the container to be conveyed, when the container is taken over, and when the container is handed over. The open position allows the container to be held to be inserted into and removed from the clamp. In the closed position, the clamp holds the container in a given position within the clamp so that it can be conveyed. The container is held in place by gripping it via the clamps on the star wheel conveyor. The transition between the open and closed positions of the clamping arms occurs either actively, i.e., controlled by appropriate controller equipment, or passively by pushing the container into the clamp against the bias of the clamping arms. Therefore, during the conveying operation of the star wheel conveyor, when the container to be conveyed is taken from the upstream device of the star wheel conveyor into the clamp along the container conveying direction in the system, and also when the container conveyed by the star wheel conveyor is transferred from the clamp to the downstream device of the star wheel conveyor, the clamp undergoes a change in the position of its clamping arms—at least during the transition from the open position to the closed position, and during the transition from the closed position to the open position. For example, such a conveyor with clamps for holding containers can be found in EP 2 093 169A1.

[0006] This document relates to a second group or type of star wheel conveyor, which does not include clamps but includes recesses. In this document, "recesses" are understood to refer to container holders that, unlike the clamps described above, do not experience any movement between different positions during the conveying operation of the star wheel conveyor. Instead, these recesses are pre-set during installation and remain in a rigid, fixed position during the actual operation of the star wheel conveyor and its integrated filling system. Therefore, the recesses provide a constant receiving space during conveying operation, in which the container is at least partially received for conveying, but not gripped due to changes in the position of the clamping arms, as is the case with clamps. Therefore, the width of the recesses is not adjusted during container conveying.

[0007] To allow the container to be conveyed along the conveying direction, the recess includes a rear recess arm, as seen along the conveying direction, which pushes the container to be conveyed from behind as the conveyor wheel including the recess rotates along the conveying direction. The container may engage with a guide radially positioned on its outer side relative to the axis of rotation of the conveyor wheel, being pushed above a rigid base plate of a star wheel conveyor, or the star wheel conveyor may include a rotating base plate on which the conveyed container and its base stand. To limit the recess located at the front, as seen in the conveying direction, the recess may include an additional recess arm.

[0008] Star wheel conveyors widely use conveyor wheels that are essentially disc-shaped, having multiple recesses arranged around a circumference and evenly spaced from each other. Such star wheel conveyors typically include at least one pair of disc plates, which can rotate relative to each other about the central axis of rotation of the conveyor wheel in a switching mode. Rigid, radially outward-facing protrusions are arranged on these plates, each protrusion forming a recess arm of a recess. The protrusions of one plate always form a recess arm on one side of each recess, for example, always forming a rear recess arm, while the protrusions of the other plate always form a recess arm on the other side of each recess, for example, always forming a front recess arm. By rotating the plates relative to each other, the recess width—that is, the width of the recess suitable for accommodating the type of container to be conveyed, more specifically, its container width or container diameter—can be preset in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation in a switching mode. Such devices can be found in EP3 152 138B1.

[0009] In addition, WO 2005 / 030616 A2 discloses an apparatus in which a recessed arm is pivotally arranged on a pair of discs of a conveyor wheel via gear transmission. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Based on the known prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved star wheel conveyor for conveying containers, preferably for conveying containers in a beverage filling system.

[0011] This objective is achieved by a star wheel conveyor for conveying containers, preferably for conveying containers in a beverage filling system, having the features of claim 1. The dependent claims, description, and drawings provide advantageous improvements.

[0012] Therefore, a star wheel conveyor is proposed for conveying containers, preferably for conveying containers in a beverage filling system, the star wheel conveyor comprising: at least one conveyor section or conveyor wheel section rotatable about a central axis of rotation; and at least one pair of recessed arms pointing outward relative to the axis of rotation to form recesses for at least partially receiving the containers to be conveyed, wherein each recessed arm is arranged on the circumference of the conveyor section and is pivotable relative to the conveyor section about a pivot axis oriented substantially parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0013] The recessed arm engages with an adjusting component arranged on the conveyor section and capable of radial displacement relative to the axis of rotation, so that the recess width can be adjusted by moving the adjusting component in the radial direction.

[0014] In other words, the two recess arms forming the recess engage with an adjusting member, such that the width of the recess formed by the recess arms, located in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation and referred to herein as the recess width, can be adjusted by moving the adjusting member, and is adapted to accommodate the type of container to be conveyed, more specifically, its container width or container diameter. The width of the recess is primarily defined by the distance between the recess arms of the recess. Therefore, the recess width of the recess arms corresponds to the circumferential distance between the recess arms relative to the axis of rotation. In other words, the recess arms engage with an adjusting member arranged on the conveyor section and capable of radial displacement relative to the axis of rotation, such that the circumferential distance between the recess arms relative to the axis of rotation, which defines the recess width, can be adjusted by moving the adjusting member radially.

[0015] By moving the adjusting component, both of the two recessed arms in a pair of recessed arms can pivot simultaneously.

[0016] Therefore, the proposed star wheel conveying mechanism becomes a recessed star wheel conveyor in which the size of the recess, especially the width of the recess, is fixed during the conveying operation. Furthermore, without any clamping force acting on the recess arm and without movement of the recess arm during the conveying operation, the container conveyed in the recess is conveyed solely by pushing. This contrasts with a conveyor wheel with clamps, in which the clamping and releasing processes are performed by pivoting the clamping arms relative to each other during the conveying operation to take over and transfer the container.

[0017] As the conveyor section rotates about the central axis of rotation, the container in the recess can be released again at a defined position or a given angular position relative to the axis of rotation, for example, before being released to a processing unit or another conveyor, and is conveyed in the circumferential direction.

[0018] The container may optionally be positioned in the recess by means of at least one contact surface held in the recess and an optional radially outwardly arranged guide rail that may surround at least a portion of the circumference of the conveyor section.

[0019] To change the star wheel conveyor from conveying containers of a first size to conveying containers of other sizes, the adjusting member can optionally be moved during the changeover operation from its current position—where the adjusting member is fixed at least during the conveying operation—thus changing the distance between a pair of recessed arms to another given value corresponding to containers of other sizes. After adjusting the recessed arms to the new specified distance, the adjusting member can be fixed back in its position. After fixing the adjusting member—and therefore the recessed arms—in the new fixed position, the switchback to conveying operation can be completed. This means that the recess width can be adapted to the container being transported in each case, more specifically, to the container width or container diameter.

[0020] The conveyor section can be formed at a given extension angle relative to the axis of rotation. In other words, the conveyor section can extend along a given arc, i.e., a given circular section. The extension angle can be, for example, 45°, 60°, 90°, 120°, or 180°, but is not limited to these.

[0021] The star wheel conveyor includes at least one conveyor section. In one embodiment, the conveyor section can extend a full 360° around the axis of rotation; that is, the conveyor section can be constructed as a disk or annulus, which can be continuous in the circumferential direction or can extend over the entire circumference.

[0022] The conveyor section extending along the entire circumference can be understood as a conveyor wheel.

[0023] The star wheel conveyor may also include multiple conveyor sections adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, which together can form an optional continuous conveyor wheel. In other words, the star wheel conveyor may include a conveyor wheel capable of rotating about a rotation axis, and the conveyor wheel is segmented, i.e., composed of conveyor sections.

[0024] According to an alternative embodiment, two of the pair of recess arms forming the cavity can engage with an adjusting member, such that by displacing the adjusting member radially, the recess arms can pivot in opposite directions. Therefore, by radially moving the adjusting member, the width of the cavity can be easily changed, wherein, in the case of containers of different sizes, the central axis of the container can always be positioned substantially at the same point relative to the circumferential direction, and if the recess arms are constructed accordingly, they can also be positioned at the same point radially. This embodiment allows for substantially symmetrical widening and narrowing of the cavity width.

[0025] According to another alternative embodiment, the star wheel conveyor can be configured such that the position of the pair of recess arms forming the recess can be preset to a given position in a switching mode, and the pair of recess arms are fixed in the preset position during the conveying operation of conveying the container to be conveyed.

[0026] Two of the two recessed arms forming the recess can engage with the adjusting member such that when the adjusting member is moved along a first direction, for example, along a direction that points radially outward relative to the axis of rotation, the recessed arms pivot toward each other, and when the adjusting member is moved along a second direction opposite to the first direction, i.e., along a direction that points radially inward relative to the axis of rotation according to the mentioned example, the recessed arms pivot away from each other.

[0027] Optionally, each cavity arm may include a cavity portion intended for forming a cavity, and these portions may each form a contact surface for holding a container within the cavity. The cavity width corresponds to the cavity width at the level of the contact surface.

[0028] Therefore, two of the two recessed arms forming the recess can then be engaged with the adjusting member such that when the adjusting member is moved outward in a first direction, such as radially, the recessed portions of the recessed arms intended to form the recess pivot toward each other, and when the adjusting member is moved in a second direction, such as radially, the recessed portions pivot away from each other.

[0029] According to an alternative embodiment, two of the pair of recess arms forming the recess can each engage with the adjusting member via an interaction element, wherein the interaction element can optionally be guided in a slot in the adjusting member, for example, guided in a groove in the adjusting member in the form of a pin element engaging with the slot. The interaction element can be oriented parallel to the pivot axis of the recess arm and / or extend parallel to the pivot axis of the recess arm away from the recess arm.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, the interaction element may be integrally formed with the recess arm. Alternatively, the interaction element may be a separate component attached to the recess arm.

[0031] The slots in the adjusting component can be arranged, for example, relative to their respective longitudinal extensions or along their respective longitudinal extensions, each slot being oriented at an angle to the direction of movement (radial direction) of the adjusting component. The slots can optionally be arranged axially symmetrically in the adjusting component relative to the direction of movement and / or radially relative to the axis of rotation.

[0032] The guide groove can specify, or in other words define, a trajectory at least between the radial inner point and the radial outer point, which extends outward with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0033] In this document, the terms "radial inner point" and "radial outer point" should be understood as referring to the radial inner point being located on a smaller radius relative to the axis of rotation compared to the radial outer point. Therefore, the radial inner point has a smaller radial distance from the axis of rotation than the radial outer point.

[0034] The description "extending outwards at an angle relative to the axis of rotation" refers to the trajectory extending from the radially inner point at an angle greater than 0° and less than 90° with respect to the circumferential direction to the radially outer point, and the trajectory extending from the radially inner point at an angle greater than 0° and less than 90° with respect to the radial direction to the radially outer point. This can be achieved by offsetting the radially inner and radially outer points relative to the axis of rotation in the circumferential direction. In other words, the radially inner and radially outer points have correspondingly different angular positions relative to the axis of rotation. In other words, the straight line extending between the axis of rotation and the radially inner point, oriented perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and the straight line extending between the axis of rotation and the radially outer point, oriented perpendicular to the axis of rotation, enclose each other at an angle greater than 0°.

[0035] In this document, "extending outward with respect to the axis of rotation" therefore refers to an angle greater than 0° and less than 90° formed by the virtual straight line extending between the radial inner point and the radial outer point and the circumferential direction at the radial inner point, and more specifically, an angle greater than 0° and less than 90° formed by the tangent to the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation at the radial inner point. According to alternative embodiments, this angle can be less than or equal to 60°, preferably less than or equal to 45°, particularly preferably less than or equal to 30°, and very particularly preferably less than or equal to 20°, less than or equal to 15°, or even less than or equal to 10°. The smaller the angle of inclination relative to the circumferential direction, more specifically, the smaller the angle formed by the trajectory or straight line between the radial inner point and the radial outer point and the tangent to the circumferential direction at the radial inner point, the smaller the adjusting force required to move the adjusting member, and correspondingly, the less wear occurs on the sliding surface.

[0036] The trajectory can be at least partially linear, i.e., a straight line. Therefore, the slot can be at least partially a linear slot. Furthermore, the trajectory can also be at least partially curved. Therefore, the slot can be at least partially a curved slot. The curvature of the trajectory along its curved path can have a constant value, or it can vary along its path.

[0037] According to an alternative embodiment, the conveyor section may include a disc section that is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to an adjusting member, and the disc section engages with the adjusting member such that rotation of the disc section about the rotation axis relative to the adjusting member causes displacement of the adjusting member in the radial direction.

[0038] The conveyor section may include at least one disc section. In one embodiment, the disc section may extend a full 360° angle about the axis of rotation; that is, the disc section may be constructed as a disc or annulus, and this angle may be continuous in the circumferential direction or may extend over the entire circumference. Therefore, a disc section extending over the entire circumference can form a disc or annular disc.

[0039] A star wheel conveyor may include multiple circumferentially adjacent disc segments, which together form an optional continuous disc assembly. In other words, a star wheel conveyor may include a wheel-shaped disc assembly that is rotatable about a rotation axis and is segmented, i.e., composed of disc segments.

[0040] The disk segment can be constructed as a ring segment. The disk segment can be formed along the circumferential direction at a given extension angle relative to the axis of rotation. In other words, the disk segment can extend along a given arc, i.e., a given circular segment. The extension angle can be, for example, 45°, 60°, 90°, 120°, or 180°, but is not limited to these.

[0041] In one implementation, the disc segment may extend at an extension angle equal to that of the conveyor segment. In other words, the extension angle of the disc segment may substantially correspond to the extension angle of the conveyor segment. Optionally, the sum of the extension angle of the disc segment and the circumferential movement angle of the disc segment may substantially correspond to the extension angle of the conveyor segment, or optionally correspond to the extension angle of the conveyor segment minus a given amount.

[0042] According to an alternative embodiment, if the disc section includes a guide groove therein, in which a guide shoulder protruding from the adjusting member is guided, the position and movement of the adjusting member can be achieved in a particularly simple and robust manner. The guide groove can specify a trajectory at least between a radially inner point and a radially outer point, the trajectory extending outwardly at an angle relative to the axis of rotation.

[0043] In this document, the terms "radial inner point" and "radial outer point," as well as the expression "extending outwards at an angle relative to the axis of rotation," should be understood consistently as described above. According to alternative embodiments, the angle of inclination of the guide groove relative to the circumferential direction, more specifically the angle enclosed by the trajectory or straight line between the radial inner point and the radial outer point and the tangent in the circumferential direction at the radial inner point, can be less than or equal to 60°, preferably less than or equal to 45°, particularly preferably less than or equal to 30°, and very particularly preferably less than or equal to 20°, less than or equal to 15°, or even less than or equal to 10°. The smaller the angle of inclination relative to the circumferential direction, the smaller the adjusting force required to move the adjusting member and the disc section relative to each other, and correspondingly, the less wear is experienced on the sliding surfaces used to contact each other.

[0044] The trajectory of the guide groove can be at least partially linear, i.e., straight. Furthermore, the trajectory can also be at least partially curved. The curvature of the trajectory along its curved path can have a constant value, or it can vary along its path.

[0045] Optionally, a radially outwardly oriented punch may be arranged between a pair of cavity arms, the punch being configured to form a cavity together with the pair of cavity arms. Specifically, the punch may specify the depth of the cavity in the radial direction relative to the axis of rotation. The punch may provide additional contact points or contact areas for the container conveyed by the cavity. Thus, when the cavity is formed by the cavity arms and the punch, at least three contact surfaces can be provided for the conveyed container, via which the container conveyed by the cavity contacts the cavity.

[0046] The punches are arranged on the conveyor section, pointing radially outward relative to the axis of rotation. Therefore, for a container positioned in a cavity, the punches constitute a radial stop pointing radially inward relative to the axis of rotation. In other words, the radial punches limit the depth of the cavity in the direction of the axis of rotation.

[0047] The radial punch can be arranged on the adjusting member, wherein the radial punch is optionally integrally formed with the adjusting member. Alternatively, the punch can also be connected to the adjusting member as a separate component.

[0048] According to one alternative embodiment, the radial punch is capable of being displaced radially relative to the axis of rotation relative to the conveyor section, the adjusting member, and / or a pair of recessed arms. For example, the punch can engage with a disc section that is rotatable relative to the punch about the axis of rotation, such that rotation of the disc section relative to the punch about the axis of rotation results in displacement of the punch in the radial direction. To achieve a particularly simple structure for the star wheel conveyor, the punch and the adjusting member can engage with the same disc section.

[0049] To control the position of the radial punch, the disc section engaging with the punch may include a punch guide groove in which a punch guide shoulder protruding from the punch is guided. The punch guide groove may specify a trajectory at least between a radially inner point and a radially outer point, the trajectory extending outwardly at an angle relative to the axis of rotation.

[0050] To reduce the workload associated with cleaning the proposed star wheel conveyor, the conveyor section may include a seal that provides a radial seal between the recessed area of ​​the recessed arm and / or the recessed area of ​​the punch—located radially outside the seal—and the interior of the conveyor section—located radially inside the seal.

[0051] It has proven advantageous if, according to an alternative embodiment, the adjusting component, the interacting element, at least one disc section, the guide shoulder, the punch guide shoulder, the guide groove and / or the punch guide groove are arranged inside the conveyor section.

[0052] The seal may optionally be a seal that extends circumferentially around the conveyor section. The seal may optionally extend over the entire circumference relative to the axis of rotation.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, the seal may be a diaphragm seal and / or a bellows seal. The seal may include at least one protective cover area and / or a bellows area.

[0054] The interior of the conveyor section can be a mechanical area, that is, an area where components required to move the cavity arm and, if applicable, the punch are arranged to engage with each other to achieve mobility. For example, seals can be used to seal this space, making the star wheel conveyor ideal for aseptic filling systems.

[0055] The disc section may include an actuation unit for adjusting the position of the disc section relative to an adjusting component. For example, the disc section may include a toothed portion, optionally located radially inward of the disc section, such as when the disc section is formed in the shape of an annular section. The toothed portion may engage with a pinion of the actuation unit. The actuation unit can be manually operated. Alternatively or additionally, the actuation unit may also include a driver, such as an electric motor. The actuation unit may be connected to the controller of the star wheel conveyor. Furthermore, the actuation unit may be connected to the central controller of a system including the star wheel conveyor. For example, input requiring adjustment of the cavity size can be made at a human-machine interface located outside the conveying chamber, such as a cleanroom where containers are conveyed by cavities. Therefore, the changeover process on the star wheel conveyor required for this purpose can be performed particularly quickly without disrupting the airflow in the conveying chamber.

[0056] Alternatively or additionally, the actuation unit may be configured to be self-locking. For example, the actuation unit may include active or passive self-locking elements. The actuation unit may, for example, include a self-locking worm gear.

[0057] The actuation unit may also include an actively controlled bolt clamping mechanism.

[0058] The star wheel conveyor may also include a radially outer guide that provides support and guidance relative to the recess for a container guided in a recess radially outside the conveyor section. The guide may include a generally curved guide rail that optionally extends in the circumferential direction with a generally given radius relative to the axis of rotation.

[0059] The star wheel conveyor may also include a rigid base plate over which the container being conveyed by the recess can be pushed. Alternatively, the star wheel conveyor may include a rotating base plate on which the conveyed container and its base rest during conveying. Attached Figure Description

[0060] Other preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which:

[0061] Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates a conveyor section of a star-wheel conveyor used for transporting containers in a beverage filling system;

[0062] Figure 2 schematically shown Figure 1 A detailed perspective side view of the star wheel conveyor;

[0063] Figure 3 Schematic illustration of crossing Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the conveyor section of a star wheel conveyor;

[0064] Figure 4 A perspective cross-sectional view of a star wheel conveyor for conveying containers in a beverage filling system, according to another embodiment, is shown schematically.

[0065] Figure 5 schematically shown Figure 4 A top view of a star wheel conveyor, wherein the recess of the star wheel conveyor has a minimum recess size;

[0066] Figure 6 schematically shown Figure 4 A top view of a star wheel conveyor, wherein the recess of the star wheel conveyor has the largest recess size;

[0067] Figure 7 A perspective cross-sectional view of a star wheel conveyor for conveying containers in a beverage filling system, according to another embodiment, is shown schematically.

[0068] Figure 8 schematically shown Figure 7 A top view showing details of the conveyor section of the star wheel conveyor;

[0069] Figure 9 schematically shown Figure 8 A three-dimensional side view showing the details shown;

[0070] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 A schematic top view of the detailed area;

[0071] Figure 11 schematically shown Figure 9 and Figure 10 A three-dimensional side view of the detailed area;

[0072] Figure 12 A perspective side view of a star wheel conveyor for conveying containers in a beverage filling system, according to another embodiment, is schematically shown.

[0073] Figure 13 The diagram schematically illustrates the view from below. Figure 12 A three-dimensional side view of a star wheel conveyor;

[0074] Figure 14 Schematic illustration of crossing Figure 12 and Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the recessed unit of the star wheel conveyor;

[0075] Figure 15 schematically shown Figure 14 A top view of the recessed unit described in the text; and

[0076] Figure 16 schematically shown Figure 14 and Figure 15 A three-dimensional side view of the interior of the recessed unit. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Preferred embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the various drawings, the same, similar, or functionally equivalent elements are given the same reference numerals, and in some cases, repeated descriptions of these elements are omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0078] Figure 1 The conveyor section 2 of a star wheel conveyor 1 used for conveying containers in a beverage filling system is schematically shown.

[0079] Conveyor section 2 is capable of rotating about the central axis of rotation 4 and extends completely around the axis of rotation 4. Therefore, conveyor section 2 constitutes a conveyor wheel.

[0080] Multiple radially outward-pointing recesses 5 are arranged on conveyor section 2, each recess 6 configured to partially accommodate a container (not shown) to be conveyed. Each recess 6 is formed by two components: a pair of recess arms 8 pointing outward relative to the axis of rotation 4; and an optional radial punch 10 centrally arranged between the pair of recess arms 8 and capable of radial displacement relative to the axis of rotation 4.

[0081] The concave arm 8 defines the width of the concave 6 in the circumferential direction by its distance 12, that is, the width 13 of the concave 6 perpendicular to the axis of rotation 4. The depth of the concave 6 in the radial direction is specifically given by the position of the punch 10, but may also be given by the shape of the concave arm 8.

[0082] Due to the recess arm 8 and the punch 10, the recess 6 therefore includes three contact surfaces through which the recess 6 contacts the container during container transport. The recess width 13 extends between the contact surfaces of the recess arm 8.

[0083] Optionally, a radially inwardly pointing, optionally curved, outer guide (not shown) for guiding the container relative to the recess 6 can be arranged radially outside the conveyor section 2. The container is then conveyed accordingly between the recess 6 and the outer guide.

[0084] Conveyor section 2 also includes a disc section 14, which is rotatable about a rotation axis 4 relative to the other components of conveyor section 2. The displacement capability of disc section 14 is indicated by motion arrow 15.

[0085] The disk section 14 extends completely around the axis of rotation 4 and thus forms a disk.

[0086] According to this embodiment, the recessed arm 8 is arranged between the upper plate section 20, which is in the form of an annular disc, and the lower plate section 22, which is in the form of an annular disc, so that it can pivot relative to the upper plate section 20 and the lower plate section 22. The disc section 14 is optionally arranged above the upper plate section 20 so that it can move relative to the upper plate section 20. The plate sections 20 and 22 can be understood as the base body of the conveyor section 2.

[0087] Multiple grooves 16 and 18 are provided in the disc section 14. These grooves allow adjustment of the position of the recess arm 8 and the punch 10 in the switching mode of the star wheel conveyor. These grooves are connected to the recess arm 7 and the punch 8 to change the position of the recess arm 8 and the punch 10, as described in more detail below.

[0088] Each recess 6 is assigned a groove-shaped guide groove 16, which is set to specify the position of the recess arm 8, and each recess 6 is assigned a groove-shaped punch guide groove 18, which is set to specify the position of the punch 10.

[0089] Figure 2 schematically shown Figure 1 A perspective side view of the star wheel conveyor 1. In this view, the disc section 14 and the upper plate section 20 located below the disc section 14 are hidden.

[0090] Therefore, it can be seen that each recess arm 8 of the recesses 6 on the circumference of the conveyor section 2 can pivot about a pivot axis 24 oriented substantially parallel to the axis of rotation 4. For this purpose, each recess arm 8 includes a lower pivot bearing portion 26 and an upper pivot bearing portion 26, by means of which the recess arm 8 is rotatably engaged in the corresponding pivot bearing portions in the upper plate section 20 and the lower plate section 22.

[0091] Each pair of recessed arms 8 is engaged with an adjusting member 28, which is arranged on the conveyor section 2 and is radially displaced relative to the axis of rotation 4, such that by displacing the adjusting member 28 in the radial direction R, the distance 12 between the recessed arms 8 relative to the axis of rotation 4 in the circumferential direction can be adjusted, and thus the width of the recess 6 or the recess width 13 can be adjusted.

[0092] According to the alternative embodiment shown herein, both of the pair of recess arms 8 forming the recess 6 are engaged with the adjusting member 28 via an interaction element 30, wherein the interaction element 30 is configured as a pin element extending parallel to the pivot axis 24, and each interaction element 30 is guided to engage in a slot 32 provided in the adjusting member 28. In the present case, the interaction element 30 is integrally formed on the recess arm 8.

[0093] Slots 32 are arranged in the adjusting member 28, wherein the longitudinal extensions of each slot 32 are oriented at an angle to the direction of movement of the adjusting member 28, i.e., the radial direction R. Therefore, the longitudinal extensions extend obliquely outward. The slots 32 are arranged axially symmetrically in the adjusting member 28 with respect to the radial direction R.

[0094] The longitudinal extensions of each slot 32 provide a trajectory 34 for the interacting element 30 guided therein. In other words, the longitudinal extension and the trajectory are the same. Each slot 32 extends between a radially inner point 36 and a radially outer point 38, thereby defining a trajectory 34 that extends outwardly relative to the axis of rotation 4 in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation 4.

[0095] The radius 37 of the radial inner point 36 relative to the rotation axis 4 is smaller than the radius 39 of the radial outer point 36. Therefore, the radial inner point 36 has a smaller radial distance than the radial distance from the radial outer point 38 to the rotation axis 4. Furthermore, the radial inner point 36 and the radial outer point 38 are offset from each other in the circumferential direction relative to the rotation axis 4. Therefore, the trajectory 34 extends outwardly with respect to the rotation axis 4. Thus, the trajectory 34 has a component in the circumferential direction and a component in the radial direction R.

[0096] In this embodiment, the trajectory 34 of slot 32 is linear. Therefore, slot 38 is a linear slot.

[0097] Here, two of the two recessed arms 8 forming the recess 6 engage with the adjusting member 28 such that when the adjusting member 28 is moved radially outward, the recessed arms 8 pivot toward each other, and when the adjusting member 8 is moved radially inward, the recessed arms 8 pivot away from each other.

[0098] The adjusting member 28 also includes a guide shoulder 40 that protrudes in the direction of the rotation axis 4 and the pivot axis 24 and is therefore perpendicular to the radial direction R indicating the direction of movement of the adjusting member 28, and the guide shoulder 40 is guided in a guide groove 16 in the disc section 14 (see...). Figure 1 ).

[0099] The radial punch 10 is capable of radial displacement relative to the adjusting member 28 and the pair of recessed arms 8 in the radial direction R. The radial punch 10 engages with the punch guide groove 18 of the disc element 14 via a punch guide shoulder 54 extending in the direction of the rotation axis 4 (see...). Figure 1 ).

[0100] like Figure 1As shown, the guide groove 16 extends between a radially inner point 42 located on a first radius 43 and a radially outer point 44 located on a second radius 45 greater than the first radius 43. Furthermore, the first point 42 and the second point 44 are offset from each other in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the guide groove 16 has a trajectory 46 that extends outwardly at an angle relative to the rotation axis 4 in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis 4.

[0101] Similarly, the punch guide groove 18 extends between a radially inner point 48 located on a first radius 49 and a radially outer point 50 located on a second radius 51 larger than the first radius 49. Furthermore, the first point 48 and the second point 50 are offset from each other in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the punch guide groove 18 has a trajectory 52 that extends outwardly at an angle relative to the rotation axis 4 in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis 4.

[0102] As in Figure 2 As can be seen, the adjusting component 28 includes a radially oriented guide portion 56, which is guided in the radial direction R within a radially oriented slot guide 58 in the upper plate section 20 (see [link]). Figure 3 ).

[0103] Figure 3 This schematically illustrates the passage through the plane defined by the radial direction R and the axis of rotation 4. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of conveyor section 2, which passes centrally through recess 6. Among other things, the adjusting member 28 can be seen again radially guided relative to upper plate section 20 via key-shaped guide portion 56 and groove guide member 58.

[0104] It can also be seen that the radial punch 10 is guided in the radial direction R relative to the lower plate section 22. That is, according to this embodiment, the radial punch 20 engages with the radially oriented slot guide 62 via the radially oriented key-shaped guide portion 60.

[0105] Furthermore, the punch 10 and the adjusting member 28 have mutual radial guides 64, which in this case are formed by a key-shaped guide shoulder 68 on the adjusting member 28, and the guide shoulder 68 is guided in the slot guide 66 in the punch 10.

[0106] The key-shaped shape provides anti-torsion protection for components guided by key-shaped parts.

[0107] As in Figures 1 to 3As can be seen, the conveyor section 2 includes a seal 70 that provides a seal in the radial direction R between the recess-forming area of ​​the recess arm 8 and the recess-forming area of ​​the punch 10, i.e., the recess 6—which is located radially outside the seal 70—and the interior of the conveyor section—which is located radially inside the seal 70.

[0108] In the current configuration, the adjusting component 28, the interaction element 30, the disc section 14, the guide shoulder 40, the punch guide shoulder 54, the guide groove 16, and the punch guide groove 18 are arranged inside the conveyor section.

[0109] Seal 70 is configured to extend circumferentially around conveyor section 2. Seal 70 is configured as a diaphragm seal having a protective cover portion 72 and a bellows portion 74. Bellows portion 74 allows radial movement of punch 10 within its range of motion specified by disc section 14. Protective cover portion 72 allows recessed arm 8 to pivot within its range of motion specified by disc section 14.

[0110] Therefore, the seal 70 divides the conveyor section into an outer region and an inner region along the circumferential radial direction R. The outer region of the conveyor section has a recess 6, while the inner region of the conveyor section has mechanical components required for the movement of the recess arm 7 and the punch 10, namely those components that engage with each other to achieve the mobility of the recess arm 7 and the punch 10.

[0111] Figure 4 A perspective cross-sectional view schematically illustrates a star-wheel conveyor 1 for conveying containers 78 in a beverage filling system according to another alternative embodiment. The star-wheel conveyor 1 and... Figures 1 to 3 The star wheel conveyor in the image is basically the same, in which the radial punch 10 and the adjusting component 28 are integrally formed. Therefore, Figure 4 The tray section 14 of the embodiment does not include the punch guide groove 18. A conveyed container 78 is shown as an example.

[0112] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Each schematically shows Figure 4 A top view of the star wheel conveyor 1, wherein, Figure 5 The recess 6 in the middle has the minimum recess size, and Figure 6 The recess in the cavity has a maximum adjustable recess size.

[0113] exist Figure 5 In the arrangement of the recess 6 shown, the recess 6 is adjusted to accommodate a container 78 having a minimum expected diameter, such as... Figure 5The smallest concentric circle on the left indicates the minimum expected diameter of container 78. The minimum expected recess width 13 corresponds to the minimum expected recess width 13 of recess 6. The concentric circles represent containers 78 of different sizes, which can alternatively be conveyed by the star wheel conveyor 1. Figure 5 In this configuration, the adjusting member 28 is positioned at its maximum extension position, which is specified by the guide shoulder 40 located at the radially outer point 44 of the guide groove 16.

[0114] exist Figure 6 In the arrangement of the recess 6 shown, the recess 6 is adjusted to accommodate a container 78 having the maximum expected diameter, as... Figure 6 The largest concentric circle on the left indicates this. The container 78 with the largest expected diameter corresponds to the largest expected recess width 13 of the recess 6. The adjusting member 28 is in its maximum retracted position. Therefore, the recess arm 8 is positioned via its pivot axis 24 from its... Figure 5 The positions of the two adjacent recesses 6 pivot away from each other in opposite directions. The distance 12 and the resulting width 13 of the recess are limited by the collision of the recess arms 8 of the two adjacent recesses 6.

[0115] In order to change the cavity size from according to Figure 5 The arrangement was changed according to Figure 6 The arrangement must refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The top view shows the disk segment 14 rotated clockwise around the rotation axis 4 by a given angle.

[0116] For example in comparison Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can be seen, and as indicated by the concentric circles symbolizing containers 78 of different sizes, regardless of the set size of the recess 6, when containers 78 are transported by means of the recess 6, the central axis 80 of containers 78 of all sizes can be substantially positioned on the same pitch circle diameter 82.

[0117] Figure 7 A perspective cross-sectional view schematically illustrates a star-wheel conveyor 1 for conveying containers 78 in a beverage filling system according to another alternative embodiment. The star-wheel conveyor 1 substantially corresponds to... Figures 1 to 3 A star-wheel conveyor, wherein three conveyor sections 2 are provided, each of the three conveyor sections 2 extending at an angle of approximately 120°, and the three conveyor sections 2 together form a conveyor wheel that is substantially continuous in the circumferential direction. Each conveyor section 2 is sealed relative to the environment on all sides and is connected to each other at its circumferential end faces. Each conveyor section 2 has a cover plate 88 for providing a seal from above.

[0118] Figure 8 schematically shown Figure 7 A top view showing details of conveyor section 2 of the star wheel conveyor 1, including cover plate 88 and upper plate section 20 (see...). Figure 11 ) and panel sections (see Figure 9 and Figure 10 The adjustment component 28 and the components of the punch 10 arranged inside the conveyor section are hidden so that the adjustment component 28 and the punch 10 are visible. The adjustment component 28 includes an outwardly inclined slot 32 in which the interaction element 30 of the recessed arm 8 is guided.

[0119] It can also be seen that, in this embodiment, the punch guide shoulder 54 is radially arranged on the outside of the guide shoulder 40 of the adjusting member 28.

[0120] The contact surface of the recess 6 provided by the recess arm 6 and the radial punch 10 is indicated by reference numeral 9 in the figure.

[0121] Therefore, the punch guide groove 18 is arranged radially outside the guide groove 16 in the disc section 14, such that it can be... Figure 8 The details shown are in Figure 9 As seen in the schematic stereoscopic side view, this figure illustrates Figure 8 A perspective side view of the detailed area, showing the disc section 14. Both the punch guide shoulder 54 and the guide shoulder 40 include a rectangular sliding element 90 with rounded corners, which improves the guidance in the punch guide groove 18 or guide groove 16, in particular allowing for a small amount of clearance and providing anti-torsion protection.

[0122] The punch guide shoulder 54 and guide shoulder 40 are not integrally attached to the punch 10 or the adjustment component 28, but are attached to the punch 10 and the adjustment component 28 as separate units.

[0123] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 A schematic top view of the detailed area. The linear trajectory 52 of the punch guide groove 18 and the linear trajectory 46 of the guide groove 16 can be derived therefrom, as described in detail above in conjunction with the previous embodiments.

[0124] Figure 11 It shows Figure 9 and Figure 10 A schematic perspective side view of the detailed area, showing the upper plate section 20. It can be seen that, in this embodiment, the punch 10 and the adjusting member 28 are guided via a common radially oriented slot guide 58 in the upper plate section 20.

[0125] In addition, the punch guide shoulder 54 also includes a guide portion 60 guided in the slot guide 28, and the guide shoulder 40 includes a guide portion 56 guided in the slot guide 28.

[0126] Refer again Figure 7 The actuation units of each conveyor section 2 are indicated by reference numeral 86. The actuation unit 86 is configured to adjust the position of the disc section 14 relative to the adjusting member 28 or relative to the upper plate section 20 and the lower plate section 22. According to this embodiment, the disc section 14 may include a toothed portion (not shown herein), i.e., a toothed portion located radially inward on the disc section 14 in this case. This toothed portion meshes with a worm gear pinion of the actuation unit 86 (not shown) inside the conveyor section.

[0127] In a transition mode that does not correspond to the conveying operation of the star wheel conveyor but interrupts that conveying operation, the positions of the recessed arms 8 and punches 10, which are fixed during conveying, can be changed by moving the disc section 14, which is fixed during conveying, in the circumferential direction via the actuation unit 86. When the recesses 6 have a new, desired size, the disc section 14 can be fixed again, for example, by self-locking the teeth between the disc section and the pinion and / or by blocking the actuation unit, and then switching from the transition mode to a conveying operation in which the recessed arms 8 and punches 10 of each recess 6 are fixed.

[0128] Figure 12 A perspective side view of a star-wheel conveyor 1 for conveying containers 78 in a beverage filling system, according to another alternative embodiment, is schematically shown. The star-wheel conveyor 1 substantially corresponds to... Figures 7 to 11 A star-wheel conveyor, wherein two conveyor sections 2 are provided, each of the two conveyor sections 2 extending at an angle of approximately 180°, and the two conveyor sections 2 together form a conveyor wheel that is substantially continuous in the circumferential direction. Each of the conveyor sections 2 is sealed relative to the environment on all sides and is connected to each other at the circumferential end faces. Each conveyor section 2 has a cover plate 88 for providing a seal from above.

[0129] Figure 13 The diagram below schematically illustrates... Figure 12 A perspective side view of the star wheel conveyor 1. It can be seen that the recessed unit 92 is attached to the lower plate section 22 from below.

[0130] The recessed unit 92 includes a recessed arm 8. The recessed arm 8 is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis 24 relative to the housing 93 of the recessed unit 92.

[0131] By screwing the housing 93 to the lower recess section, the recess unit 92 can be attached from below to the lower plate section 22. The lower plate section 22 and the housing are connected in a sealing manner, in this case via a flat seal (not shown).

[0132] Figure 14A schematic cross-sectional view is shown, centered through the recess 6 in a plane defined by the radial direction R and the axis of rotation 4. It can be seen that the adjusting member 28 is also housed within the housing 93 as part of the recess unit 92. Regarding the housing 93, both the pin guide shoulder 40 and the punch guide shoulder 54 are configured to extend from the housing 93 toward and through the lower plate section 22 along the direction of the axis of rotation 4.

[0133] In this embodiment, the conveyor section does not include the upper plate section. Instead, the guide shoulder 40 and the punch guide shoulder 54 are guided in a slot guide 58 oriented in the radial direction R.

[0134] More precisely, the two sleeves 94 and 95 are guided in the slot guide 58. When the recessed unit 92 is attached to the star wheel conveyor 1 or when the recessed unit 92 is replaced at the star wheel conveyor 1, the guide shoulder 40 is inserted into the first sleeve 95, and the punch guide shoulder 54 is inserted into the second sleeve 94. The sleeves 94 and 95 are further guided in the punch guide groove 18 and the guide groove 16, respectively. Therefore, in the state where the conveyor section 2 is assembled with the recessed unit 92, the guide shoulder 40 and the punch guide shoulder 54 are guided in the guide groove 16 and the punch guide groove 18, respectively.

[0135] Figure 15 schematically shown Figure 14 The top view of the recessed unit 93 described herein shows that the adjusting member 28 is guided on both sides via the lateral guides 99 in the housing 93, so that the adjusting member 28 can move only in the radial direction R.

[0136] Figure 16 A perspective side view of the interior of the recessed unit 92 is schematically shown. The adjusting member 28 includes another recess 96 oriented radially in the direction R, within which a pin-shaped punch guide shoulder 54 is movable. The punch guide shoulder 54 includes a collar 98 guided in a collar recess 97 extending in the opposite sidewall of the recess 96. This prevents punch twisting, especially if the recessed unit 92 is loose and not attached to the conveyor section 2. This facilitates the assembly of the recessed unit 92 onto the conveyor section 2.

[0137] Without departing from the scope of the invention, any individual feature presented in the exemplary embodiments may be combined and / or interchanged within the applicable scope.

[0138] List of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0139] 1-star wheeled conveyor

[0140] 2 Conveyor Section

[0141] 4. Rotation axis

[0142] 6 depressions

[0143] 8 concave arm

[0144] 9 contact surfaces

[0145] 10 punches

[0146] 12 distance

[0147] 13 Depression width

[0148] 14 sections

[0149] 16 guide grooves

[0150] 18 punch guide groove

[0151] 20 board section

[0152] 22 Lower Section

[0153] 24 pivot axis

[0154] 26 Pivot Bearing Section

[0155] 28 Adjustment components

[0156] 30 Interacting Elements

[0157] 32 slots

[0158] Trajectory of 34 slots

[0159] 36 radial inner points

[0160] 37 radius

[0161] 38 radial outer points

[0162] 39 radius

[0163] 40 Guided Shoulder

[0164] 42 radial inner points

[0165] 43 First radius

[0166] 44 radial outer point

[0167] 45 Second Radius

[0168] 46 Guide groove trajectory

[0169] 48 radial inner points

[0170] 49 First radius

[0171] 50 radial outer points

[0172] 51 Second Radius

[0173] 52 Punch Guide Groove Track

[0174] 54 punch guide shoulder

[0175] 56 Guiding Section

[0176] 58-slot guide

[0177] 60 Guiding Section

[0178] 62-slot guide

[0179] 64 radial guide

[0180] 66-slot guide

[0181] 68 Guided Shoulder

[0182] 70 seals

[0183] 72 Protective Shield Section

[0184] 74 Corrugated Pipe Section

[0185] 78 containers

[0186] 80 central axis

[0187] 82-section circle diameter

[0188] 84 Rotation Axis

[0189] 86 Actuation Units

[0190] 88 cover plate

[0191] 90 sliding element

[0192] 92 recessed units

[0193] 93 casing

[0194] 94 Sleeve

[0195] 95 sleeve

[0196] 96 grooves

[0197] 97 collar groove

[0198] 98 shaft collar

[0199] 99 Side Guide

[0200] R radial direction

Claims

1. A star-wheel conveyor (1) for conveying containers (78), preferably for conveying containers (78) in a beverage filling system, the star-wheel conveyor (1) comprising a conveyor section (2) and at least one pair of pocket arms (8), the conveyor section (2) being rotatable about a central rotation axis (4) and the pocket arms (8) pointing outwardly relative to the rotation axis (4) for forming pockets (6) for at least partially receiving containers (78) to be conveyed, wherein: Each pocket arm (8) is arranged on the circumference of the conveyor section (2) and is pivotable about a pivot axis (24) oriented substantially parallel to the rotation axis (4), It is characterized in that The pocket arm (8) is engaged with an adjustment member (28) which is arranged on the conveyor section (2) and can be radially displaced relative to the rotation axis (4), so that the pocket width (13) of the pocket (6) can be adjusted by displacing the adjustment member (28) in a radial direction (R).

2. The star-wheel conveyor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that: Two of a pair of recess arms (8) forming the recess (6) are engageable with the adjustment member (28) so that by displacing the adjustment member (28) in the radial direction (R), the recess arms (8) are pivotable in directions opposite to each other.

3. The star-wheel conveyor (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The star wheel conveyor (1) is configured so that the position of a pair of recess arms (8) forming the recess (6) can be preset to a given position in a conversion mode, and so that during a conveying operation for conveying a container (78) to be conveyed, the pair of recess arms (8) are fixed in the preset position.

4. Star conveyor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that Two of the pair of recess arms (8) forming the recess (6) are engaged with the adjusting member (28) so that when the adjusting member (8) is displaced in a first direction, preferably in a direction pointing radially outward relative to the rotation axis (84), the recess arms (8), preferably recess portions of the recess arms (8) configured to form the recess (6), pivot toward each other, and when the adjusting member (28) is displaced in a second direction opposite to the first direction, preferably in a direction pointing radially inward relative to the rotation axis (4), the recess arms (8), preferably recess portions of the recess arms (8) configured to form the recess (6), pivot away from each other.

5. Star conveyor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that Two of a pair of recess arms (8) forming the recess (6) are respectively engaged with the adjustment component (28) via interaction elements (30), wherein the interaction elements (30) are preferably pin elements guided to engage in a slot (32) in the adjustment component (28), wherein the interaction elements (30) are preferably oriented parallel to the pivot axis (24) of the recess arm (8) and / or extend from the recess arm (8) parallel to the pivot axis (24) of the recess arm (7), and / or wherein the interaction elements (30) are preferably formed integrally with the recess arm (8).

6. Star conveyor (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The slots (32) are arranged in the adjustment component (28), preferably in the adjustment component (28) with their respective longitudinal extensions, each slot (32) being oriented at an angle to the direction of movement of the adjustment component (28), wherein preferably, the slots (32) are arranged axially symmetrically in the adjustment component (28), preferably axially symmetrically with respect to the direction of movement and / or with respect to a radial direction (R) with respect to the rotation axis (4).

7. Star conveyor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The conveyor section (2) comprises a disc segment (14) which is rotatable relative to the adjustment member (28) about the rotation axis (4), wherein the adjustment member (28) is engaged with the disc segment (14) such that rotation of the disc segment (14) relative to the adjustment member (28) about the rotation axis (4) causes displacement of the adjustment member (28) in the radial direction (R).

8. Star conveyor (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The disk segment (14) comprises a guide groove (16) in which a guide shoulder (40) protruding from the adjustment part (28) is guided, wherein, preferably, the guide groove (16) specifies a trajectory (46) at least between a radially inner point (42) and a radially outer point (44), wherein the trajectory (46) extends obliquely outwards relative to the rotation axis (4).

9. Star conveyor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that A punch (10) oriented radially outward is arranged between the pair of recess arms (8), and is configured to form the recess (6) together with the pair of recess arms (8), wherein the punch (10) specifically specifies the depth of the recess (6) in the radial direction (R) relative to the rotation axis (4).

10. Star conveyor (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The radial punch (10) is arranged on the adjusting component (28), wherein, preferably, the radial punch (10) is formed integrally with the adjusting component (28).

11. The star-wheel conveyor (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that: The radial punch (10) is displaceable relative to the conveyor section (2), the adjustment component (28) and / or the pair of recessed arms (8) along the radial direction (R) relative to the rotation axis (4), wherein, preferably, the punch (10) is engaged with a disk segment (14), and the disk segment (14) is rotatable relative to the punch (10) around the rotation axis (4), so that the rotation of the disk segment (14) relative to the punch (10) around the rotation axis (4) causes the displacement of the punch (10) in the radial direction (R), wherein, preferably, the punch (10) and the adjustment component (28) are engaged with the same disk segment (14).

12. Star conveyor (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The disk segment (14) engaged with the punch (10) comprises a punch guide groove (18), in which a punch guide shoulder (54) protruding from the punch is guided, wherein, preferably, the punch guide groove (18) specifies a trajectory (52) at least between a radially inner point (48) and a radially outer point (50), wherein the trajectory (52) of the punch guide groove (18) extends outwardly obliquely relative to the rotation axis (4).

13. Star conveyor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The conveyor segment (2) comprises a seal (70) which provides a seal in the radial direction (R) between a pocket forming area of ​​the pocket arm (8) and / or a pocket forming area of ​​the punch (10) and the interior of the conveyor segment, the pocket forming area being located radially outside the seal (70) and the interior of the conveyor segment being located radially inside the seal (70), wherein the adjustment component (28), the interaction element (30), at least one of the disc segments (14), the guide shoulder (40), the punch guide shoulder (54), the guide groove (16) and / or the punch guide groove (18) are preferably arranged on the inner side of the conveyor section, wherein, preferably, the seal (70) is a seal (70) extending around the circumference of the conveyor section (2) and / or the seal (70) is a diaphragm seal and / or a bellows-type seal, wherein, preferably, the seal (70) includes at least one protective cover area (72) and / or a bellows area (74), wherein the seal preferably extends over the entire circumference relative to the rotation axis (4).

Images