Apparatus and method for separing components

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a device (1) for separating components (2), such as rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, comprising: a transport device (10), by means of which the components (2) to be transported can be transported to, through and out of the device (1) in a transport direction (11) along a transport path (16), wherein the transport device (10) comprises at least one transport means (12) for transporting the component (2) in a single line and a stacking section (13); the invention relates to a blocking device (20), comprising at least one blocking component (20.1; 20.2) which extends a length in the transport direction (11) and defines a working area W of the component (2). The apparatus (1) further comprises an actuator (30). The actuator (30) is designed to displace the at least one blocking member (20, 1; 20.2) into a first position, in which the part (2.1) trailing into the working area (W) is blocked, and from the first position into a second position, in which the trailing part (2.1) can be accommodated in the working area (W).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a device and a method for separating parts, in particular for separating rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms. The separation device is in particular combined with an inspection device for optically and / or electrically inspecting rotationally symmetrical test parts. Background Art

[0002] As is known, mass-produced test pieces need to be continuously checked to detect properties and / or defects of the test pieces in order to ensure their quality. The test pieces can be mass-produced container closures, containers or bottles or so-called preforms, which are usually transported to an optical inspection device via a stacking section (Staustrecke) in a closely arranged manner by means of a conveying device. Detectable defects can be, for example, dimensional errors, material defects and color errors, and the optical inspection is preferably carried out on the separated test pieces. Therefore, a separation device can be provided between the stacking section and the optical inspection device, so that an image that can be evaluated by a processing device can be obtained from the separated test pieces in order to detect defective test pieces.

[0003] In addition, in other aspects, it may also be necessary to separate the components transported in the transport direction by means of a conveying device in close arrangement. For example, the subsequent processing of the components, such as printing, may require that the components be transported to the processing area at a certain distance.

[0004] Devices for separating components are known. For example, it is known to use a star wheel with a plurality of fingers, which are sunk into the objects with an open top. By adjusting the rotation speed of the star wheel relative to the feed speed of the conveyor belt, a gap of adjustable size can be produced between the objects behind the star wheel, that is, the objects are separated. Alternatively, there are bag wheels arranged on both sides of the transport direction, which have circumferentially arranged bags, which can engage with the inspection objects. The bag wheels synchronize the needle rotation in the opposite direction, wherein the circumferential speed is lower than the speed of the conveying device, so that the receivable inspection objects can be separated and transported further.

[0005] CH 704 843 discloses another principle for separating, conveying and buffering closely spaced components. Here, the objects are separated by arranging a plurality of seesaw-like pivoting blocking members in a row along the conveying path. The objects conveyed by means of frictional fit cause a rocking movement of the blocking member, i.e. the blocking member moves passively and without drive. Here, the object deflects the blocking member when leaving, so that the following object stops. If the preceding object has left the working area of ​​the blocking member, the blocking member performs a reverse movement, thereby releasing the stop. Summary of the invention

[0006] The object of the invention is to provide a device for separating components, in particular for separating rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, in order to improve the cushioning and positioning of the components before, during and / or after separation, and in particular to be adjustable. The device for separation can therefore also be combined with a component inspection. On the basis of the adjustable and, if necessary, controllable separation of the components by means of the separation device, optical and / or electrical inspections can be easily and safely carried out on the periphery of the device to detect defective components. In addition, errors in the conveying process can also be detected and resolved, and / or the number of separated components can be detected by the separation device. In addition, a method for separating components is described.

[0007] These objects are achieved according to the invention in particular by the subject matter of the independent claims. Further preferred embodiments are given by the dependent claims and the description.

[0008] The object of the invention is achieved by a device for separating parts, such as rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, comprising: a transport device, by means of which the parts to be transported can be transported to, through and out of the device along a transport path in a transport direction, wherein the transport device comprises at least one transport means for transporting the parts in a single row and a stacking section; a blocking device, having at least one blocking member configured as a seesaw, which extends a length in the transport direction and defines a working area for the parts. In addition, the device should include an actuator. The actuator is designed to pivot at least one blocking member into a first position, in which the parts trailing into the working area are blocked; and to pivot from the first position to a second position, in which the trailing parts can be accommodated in the working area. The first position is also called the blocking position, in which the blocking member extends into the transport path with an end region, and the trailing parts hit the end region and stop. At least one blocking member is deflected accordingly in the first position. In the second, release position, the trailing component is located in the working area and is released for further transport by pivoting the blocking element again into a third, release position, which substantially corresponds to the first position.

[0009] The seesaw-shaped and pivotable blocking member of the blocking device can be configured as a lever arm with a certain length, which can be pivoted around a pivot axis by a joint. The pivot axis is perpendicular to the transport direction, so that the blocking member produces a rocking movement (Wippenbewegung) in and out of the transport path. Here, the two ends of the blocking member respectively perform opposite movements according to the pivot movement. A stop can be configured on one side of the blocking member, which interacts with an actuator (or another component) arranged laterally facing the blocking member. The movement range of the blocking member, i.e. the deflection range, can also be limited here.

[0010] In order to switch the actuators on in a predeterminable cycle, a control unit can be provided.

[0011] In contrast to known devices for separating components, in which the pivoting movement is introduced by the conveyed component itself, i.e. is passive, the device according to the invention uses an actuator to switch at least one seesaw-like blocking element between different positions. The device is thus a further development of the prior art, i.e. the passive implementation of the swinging movement of at least one blocking element can be actively implemented by the actuator according to the invention. Preferably, the device can also include a control unit, which is designed to activate or control the actuator in a definable rhythm.

[0012] In known passive solutions, the objects transported by the transport press one end of a seesaw-shaped blocking member, which deflects the blocking member and stops the following object. Only after the first object leaves the working area of ​​the seesaw-shaped blocking member can the following object press the blocking member again in the opposite direction, thereby releasing the stopped state. The distance between the objects that follow one another can only be controlled by the transport speed of the transport. For this purpose, a plurality of blocking members are arranged along the transport path in order to stop the objects repeatedly. This passive solution has proven to be disadvantageous, is particularly susceptible to interference, and is structurally inflexible.

[0013] In contrast, with the device according to the invention, by means of the actuator or its controlled switching, not only can the components be reliably separated, but the dwell time of the components at rest can also be freely selected and the distance between successive components can be easily set and adjusted. The actuator is therefore designed and / or arranged to act as an activation element for a seesaw-like blocking member in order to selectively switch the blocking member between a blocking configuration and a release configuration. In addition, the separation by means of the seesaw-like blocking member is gentler on the components, since the transmission of force is in most cases carried out via the less sensitive side of the round component.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the blocking device includes blocking members configured as seesaws arranged on both sides of the transport path, i.e., a first blocking member and a second blocking member arranged oppositely, which can be operated synchronously by one or more actuators. The first blocking member and the second blocking member work like pliers, and they are more or less closed for the trailing components in the first posture, so that the components squeezed between the blocking members or the trailing components stop. This posture of the blocking member is referred to as the first posture or blocking posture hereinafter, which can be actively switched by the actuator and is particularly releasable in one embodiment. In the stop posture defined as the second posture, the trailing component is located in the working area of ​​the blocking member. The dwell time of this posture is definable and can be adjusted by means of the switching of the actuator by means of the control unit. If the blocking member is pivoted to the third posture, i.e., the release posture, by interaction with the actuator, the components located in the working area are released. The blocking member occupies the same position as the first posture when in the third posture.

[0015] In principle, it is conceivable that certain positions of at least one blocking element are not actively switched by the actuator, but rather one or more blocking elements are displaced in these positions by the following component.

[0016] Alternatively, the actuator can also be constructed and / or arranged to be in a blocking position in its closed state. The component that is pushed in later can be pushed forward into the working area of ​​the at least one blocking element by the stacking pressure in a subsequent stage, and then the component is in a second position. According to one embodiment, the path of the trailing component is opened by the activated actuator and is stopped or stopped on the path by the position of the at least one blocking element.

[0017] Actively executing the pivoting movement by one or more actuators allows the switching of the pivoting movement to be achieved independently of the current pressure of the blocked component. As a result, a uniform separation of the components to be transported is possible, which also tolerates gaps and / or disturbances that occur in the accumulation section. When transporting components in batches, disturbances to the component flow may occur, such as components that do not meet specifications, in particular before the separation device. This can be detected, for example, by sensors. Actively controlling the pivoting movement of the blocking member by a switchable actuator makes it possible to remove possible blockages. In addition, accumulations in the device or in the device inlet area can be eliminated by actively deflecting at least one blocking member to an open position or a second position until the accumulation is resolved.

[0018] In order to detect problems, especially in the accumulation section, a sensor, in particular a photoelectric sensor, can be provided, which can monitor this area. If an inappropriate accumulation or gap occurs in this area, a control signal can be sent to an actuator arranged downstream to solve the problem by appropriately switching the blocking member.

[0019] In another embodiment of the device for separating components, in which the blocking device comprises a first blocking member and an opposing second blocking member, the width of the opening between the two opposing seesaw-shaped blocking members is variable, in particular, the opening width can be matched to the diameter of the rotationally symmetrical component. This adjustability allows the separation device to be easily adapted to different components without having to replace the blocking members for this purpose.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of the device for separating parts, the actuator is designed to magnetically pivot at least one seesaw-shaped blocking member. For this purpose, the actuator can be constructed as a switchable electromagnet, or has an electromagnet that interacts with the end region of the seesaw-shaped blocking member in the switched-on state. This can be achieved, for example, by a correspondingly arranged magnetic device. The electromagnet can be loaded with alternating current, rectified alternating current or pulses generated by direct current, and thus a periodically changing force is applied to the device. At least one seesaw-shaped blocking member is pivoted accordingly. The blocking member can be moved by a switchable electromagnet that can be arranged laterally, wherein at least one blocking member that is constructed as a seesaw and can pivot is pivoted to a first posture or a third posture or a second posture. When the electromagnet is turned off or de-energized, the blocking member pivots in the opposite pivoting direction.

[0021] Alternatively, the actuator may also be configured as a mechanical actuator. Thus, the actuator may include a movable push rod that can move in the direction of the blocking member. Thus, in this embodiment, one end of the blocking member may rest against the movable push rod and move with the push rod, so that it can enter the first or third posture and the second posture.

[0022] Furthermore, the actuator can be designed to pivot a pivot axis of at least one blocking element of the blocking device by an activated rotation.A conceivable variant of such an actuator is an electric motor.

[0023] The actuator can be controlled by the regulator and the regulation method with adaptive functions in a closed-loop control circuit or an open control circuit to enter an intermediate position and / or an end position. By the controlled switching of the actuator (e.g., an electromagnet), not only can the position of the seesaw-like blocking element be actively determined, but also the separation can be timed and / or the distance between the separated parts can be adjusted by the beat switching.

[0024] Preferably, the blocking element can be abutted against the actuator in a damping manner. To this end, in one embodiment, a magnetic field can be established so that the movement of the blocking element in the direction of the actuator is braked.

[0025] Only by switching the actuator configured as an electromagnet or also by a return spring, the timing is possible. The blocking member is pressed into a rest position by the pressure of the component that is stopped and pressed into the separating device, wherein the actuator or electromagnet actively delays the opening.

[0026] In another embodiment, the actuator is switchable to hold the blocking member in a first position, i.e., the blocking position, during an adjustable dwell time, in which the transport of the component through the device is stopped. In addition, the actuator can be switchable to hold the blocking member in a second position, i.e., the rest position, during an adjustable dwell time, in which the component accommodated in the working area of ​​the blocking member is immobilized.

[0027] In another embodiment, the distance between components following one another in the transport direction after the device can be adjusted by means of an actuator.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, the number of pivoting movements actively caused by the actuator can be detected by a sensor. The number of components that have passed through the device for separating components can thus be easily detected based on the number of switching operations of the actuator. It has also proven to be advantageous that counting the components that have passed through the separation device enables accurate filling of transport boxes or the like, wherein, for example, the flow of components can be redirected when a certain number of components is reached or can be fed to a buffer device.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the transport device for conveying the components to, through and out of the separation device comprises at least one conveying means configured as a belt conveyor. The belt conveyor can have a conveyor belt, a round belt or other circulating conveying means suitable for transmitting the driving force to the components to be conveyed by means of friction.

[0030] Preferably, the belt conveyor is designed as a vacuum belt conveyor. A vacuum belt conveyor increases the pressing force on the components on the transport means or the conveyor belt surface and stabilizes the position of the components to be transported. As a result, the slip between the conveyor belt surface and the components to be transported can be increased, which is advantageous for the design of the transport device. It is conceivable that only one section of the transport path, in particular the area corresponding to the working area of ​​the barrier element, is designed as a vacuum conveyor. Alternatively or additionally, compressed air transport can also be provided at least in the inlet area of ​​the transport device, for example in the accumulation section.

[0031] In order to solve the problem that the relative movement between the transport device and the parts to be transported causes friction and may damage the parts, the transport means should be correspondingly configured as friction-reducing transport at least in the stacking section area. For example, vacuum transport or coating of the transport surface is suitable.

[0032] In order to achieve a single-row and close arrangement of the components at least in the stacking section or the section before the separation device, lateral boundaries extending in the transport direction can be arranged parallel to the transport path, so that the components are advantageously guided on opposite sides of the component side surface. This can prevent individual components from deviating from the single-row arrangement due to the stacking pressure.

[0033] The arrangement, shape or size of at least one barrier member configured as a seesaw can be adapted perpendicularly to the transport direction to the shape or length of the component. By adapting the arrangement and / or shape of the barrier member, the separation device can be easily adapted to different components. In this way, the flexibility of the separation device for components of different sizes can be further improved. Taller components have a shape that extends along their axis, so they protrude from the surface of the transport vehicle at a certain height. The adaptation or corresponding height positioning or arrangement of at least one barrier member above the transport device will allow reliable separation of such high component shapes by a correspondingly enlarged contact surface.

[0034] In order to achieve as low a friction contact area as possible between the seesaw-like barrier element and the component, a bearing element (Lagermittel), for example a ball bearing element, can be provided at the contact surface of the barrier element and the component to be separated. This reduces the friction at the contact surface and thus reduces wear. Thus, a minimal friction, high-speed and extremely precise transport can be achieved by the separation device. Alternatively or in addition to at least one bearing element, a low-friction coating can be provided at the contact area. High-speed supply with a production capacity of up to 4500 components per minute or achieving an optimal throughput can be envisaged.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the invention, the actuator can be switched in such a way that at least one component is at rest during a definable dwell time. This state can be used to infer possible gaps in the component flow that may be detected. This rest state that can be generated and adjusted during an adjustable dwell time can also be used to optically and / or electrically check the component for defects with the aid of one or more inspection devices. The dwell time that can be adjusted by the actuator can be adjusted in accordance with the requirements of the inspection method used, or the inspection can be synchronized with the separation or pivoting movement of the blocking element. The inspection can be selected from a variety of inspection methods, in particular optical inspection methods and / or high-voltage inspection (Hochspannungsprüfung).

[0036] The optical inspection of the component can preferably be carried out on the basis of an image of the component taken by means of an image acquisition device. The image can then be evaluated by a processing device in order to identify defective components. The properties of the closure or container can be checked by means of a comprehensive optical inspection, for example the integrity of the securing band, the closure thread and / or the sealing element can be checked.

[0037] Alternatively and / or additionally, the transported components can be electrically tested to detect holes and / or cracks. A high voltage test is suitable for this. In particular, a high voltage test can be performed by applying a pulse voltage via a voltage source. A correspondingly designed test device comprises an electrode assembly, which comprises an upper electrode arranged above the transport plane and a lower electrode arranged below the transport plane, with a discharge path formed between the two. In this case, the test voltage applied is greater than or equal to the breakdown voltage between the electrodes in air, but less than the breakdown voltage of a defect-free component between the electrodes.

[0038] It is particularly advantageous if the transport means configured as a conveyor belt has holes or openings which are arranged at a distance from one another in the transport direction. For example, a vacuum belt conveyor has such holes. The holes or openings are configured and arranged such that during the high voltage test, the discharge path between the upper electrode and the lower electrode extends through one of the holes or openings and thus not through a potential insulator, such as a conveyor belt.

[0039] Combining separation and inspection has proven to be particularly advantageous for the further tracking of components along the transport path with component accuracy. For example, components identified as defective can be tracked with the aid of encoders for position and / or path measurement and sorted out at the end of the transport path.

[0040] Furthermore, the defects determined, such as micropores and / or microcracks detected during the high-voltage test, can be recorded in statistical form and combined with the results of other test methods. Defective components can be assigned to their injection molding cavity in the mold and targeted corrections can be made at an early stage.

[0041] The invention also relates to a method for separating components, such as rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, which can advantageously be carried out with the aid of a device for separation according to the invention. The method comprises: transporting the components along a transport path with the aid of a transport device, wherein the components can be arranged in a single row and closely spaced along a stacking section in front of the device. The method also comprises: pivoting a blocking member constructed as a seesaw into a first position with the aid of an actuator, the blocking member extending a certain length in the transport direction and defining a working area for the components, wherein the components are blocked from entering the working area; pivoting into a second position, in which the components entering can be accommodated in the working area; and pivoting the blocking member constructed as a seesaw into a third position, which corresponds to the first position, in which the path of the component is released in the transport direction. This allows the component to leave the working area of ​​the blocking member at a certain distance from the preceding component.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the pivoting of the blocking member from one position to the other is delayed for a certain time in order to achieve an adjustable dwell time. This dwell time, which is adjustable by control of the actuator, allows the distance between the separated components to be easily adjusted. Thus, the resulting distance between two components passing in a clocked manner is adjustable.

[0043] The components separated by the device can be kept in a stationary position before or during separation. According to one embodiment of the method, the separation method can be combined with an optical and / or electrical inspection method by means of a correspondingly designed optical and / or electrical inspection device to detect the components preferably in a stationary state.

[0044] More details of the present invention will be given from the preferred embodiments described below, which are exemplarily shown in the accompanying drawings. Other advantages of the present invention can be further understood from the following description, as well as suggestions and ideas on how to modify or further develop the subject matter of the present invention within the scope required. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The accompanying drawings show:

[0046] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an apparatus for separating components according to the present invention;

[0047] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an apparatus for separating components according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of a detail of an apparatus for separating components in combination with an inspection device according to the invention;

[0049] Figure 4Ais a schematic top view of an apparatus for separating circular components according to one embodiment in a first stage;

[0050] Figure 4B is a schematic top view of an apparatus for separating circular components in a second stage;

[0051] Figure 4C is a schematic top view of the device for separating components in a third stage;

[0052] Figure 5 is a schematic top view of a device for separating round parts according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view shows a device 1 for separating parts according to the present invention, wherein the parts are, for example, rotationally symmetrical parts 2, such as closures of beverage containers. The parts 2 are essentially identical objects manufactured in batches, such as the closures shown in the figure. The device 1 for separating parts is also referred to as a separation device 1. The separation device 1 is designed to separate the parts 2 transported by a transport device 10 along a transport path 16 in a transport direction 11 from each other. The parts 2 are supplied by a transport tool 12 and are blocked in at least a plurality of parts of a stacking section 13, so that the parts are arranged in a single row and closely on a transport plane 14. On the transport plane 14, the parts 2 are transported by the transport tool 12 through the separation device 1 and further transported to subsequent devices. The transport tool 12 may include a conveyor belt, a vacuum belt conveyor, etc., so as to transport the parts 2 along the transport path 16 in the transport direction 11. For the sake of clarity, details of the transport tool 12, such as the bearing structure of the conveyor belt, the drive unit and / or the steering unit, and possible sliding plates, are not shown. Preferably, negative pressure or vacuum can be applied, which acts on the component 2 through a slot or opening 18 of the transport means 12. The opening 18 has also proven to be advantageous in electrical testing, since, for example, insulator conveyor belts are excluded in high-voltage testing.

[0054] Above the transport plane 14, at least in the region of the stacking section 13, lateral guides 15 extending parallel to one another are arranged so that the transported components 2 are guided on opposite sides, for example, of the side surfaces and are thus arranged in a single row and closely. The separation device 1 can be connected to upstream and / or downstream devices via the transport device 10.

[0055] In the embodiment shown, the separation device 1 according to the invention has a blocking device 20, which includes a first blocking member 20.1 and a second blocking member 20.2, which are arranged opposite each other above the transport plane 14. Each blocking member 20.1, 20.2 is mounted on a joint so that it can be pivoted about a pivot axis 21 perpendicular to the transport plane 14, such as Figure 3 The first blocking member 20.1 and the second blocking member 20.2 are actively operated by the actuator 30. Here, the blocking member 20.1 or the blocking member 20.2 is pivoted about its pivot axis 21.1; 21.2, ie, is deflected to either extend inwardly into the transport path 16 or to pivot outwardly from the transport path 16. Figure 3 Details of the blocking device 20 are shown.

[0056] The pivoting of each of the two blocking members 20.1, 20.2 is not performed passively, but actively and rhythmically by the actuator 30, in particular by a controllable electromagnet. Therefore, the actuator 30 stops the closely arranged and continuously supplied components 2 by means of the two blocking members 20.1, 20.2, so that these components perform a rhythmic movement along the transport path 16, wherein the stop is achieved by the blocking device 20 that can be pivoted by the actuator 30. In addition, the rhythmic pivoting movement of each blocking member 20.1, 20.2 of the blocking device 20 by means of the actuator 30 enables appropriate responses to blockages caused by non-compliant components and / or gaps along the transport path 16. When the component flow along the transport direction 11 is interrupted, the blockage can be relieved by automatically separating the blocking members 20.1, 20.2. In addition, by detecting the position of the blocking device 20 and / or a component triggering sensor (not shown) that can be arranged, the accumulation can be detected and transmitted to the control unit 32 (not shown) of the separation device 1. In order to relieve the accumulation, the opening width 23 between the first and second blocking members 20.1 and 20.2 of the blocking device 20 can be enlarged, for example, so that the component 2 is freed from the obstruction, the accumulation is eliminated, and the component flow can flow undisturbed. Alternatively or additionally, a compressed air nozzle (not shown) can be activated to pick out the blocked component 2 from the component flow. In order to avoid affecting subsequent devices, such as inspection devices, the control unit 32 can send corresponding signals to them to indicate the start and / or end of the component flow of defective components.

[0057] Figure 2A schematic cross-sectional view of a separation device 1 is shown. Components 2 are transported into, through and out of the separation device 1 along a transport direction 11. In this case, the components pass through a blocking device 20 having a first blocking member 20.1 and a second blocking member 20.2. The first blocking member 20.1 has a first end 22.1.1 and a second end 22.1.2; correspondingly, the second blocking member 20.2 has a first end 22.2.1 and a second end 22.2.2. The first blocking member 20.1 and the second blocking member 20.2 each extend a certain length along the transport direction, thereby forming a working area W respectively. Each blocking member 20.1, 20.2 can be pivoted about a respective pivot axis 21.1; 21.2, wherein the pivoting movement is initiated by an actuator 30. By means of this clocked pivoting movement of the blocking members 20.1, 20.2, the components are separated so that successive components 2 are spaced apart by a distance 17, which is adjustable.

[0058] exist Figure 2 In the figure, details of the transport device 10 can be seen, which comprises a transport means 13 configured as a belt conveyor, with corresponding drive rollers and a conveyor belt. In addition, an inspection device 40 is also shown, which will be described below.

[0059] Figure 3An embodiment of a separating device 1 is shown in a partial sectional perspective view, with two opposing blocking elements 20.1 and 20.2, which can be pivoted in a clocked manner about their pivot axes 21.1; 21.2 by means of an actuator 30 or a plurality of actuators 30. When the first blocking element 20.1 and / or the second blocking element 20.2 are pivoted about the respective pivot axes 21.1 or 21.2, the first end 22.1.1 and the second end 22.1.2 of the first blocking element 20.1 and / or the first end 22.2.1 and the second end 22.2.2 of the second blocking element 20.2 respectively perform opposite movements with respect to the transport path 16. The blocking device 20 extends over a certain length in the transport direction 11 and defines a working area W between the first end 22.1.1 and the second end 22.1.2 of the first blocking element 20.1 and the first end 22.2.1 and the second end 22.2.2 of the second blocking element 20.2, respectively. The first end 22.1.1 of the first blocking member 20.1 and the first end 22.2.1 of the second blocking member 20.2 of the blocking device 20 are in contact with the component 2.1 squeezed into the respective working area W. A bearing member 24 is provided at the first end 22.1.1 of the first blocking member 20.1 and the first end 22.2.1 of the second blocking member 20.2 of the blocking device 20, respectively, for reducing friction when the component 2.1 moves relative to the first end 22.1.1 of the blocking member 20.1 or the first end 22.2.1 of the second blocking member 20.2. As shown in the figure, the component 2.1 just in the stationary state can be optically and / or electrically inspected for defects by the inspection device 40 shown. The figure shows a high voltage inspection of the component 2.1 to detect micropores and / or microcracks that, for example, may impair the sealing of the closure. Advantageously, the checking process is carried out synchronously with the oscillating movement of the first barrier element 20 . 1 and / or the second barrier element 20 . 2 of the barrier device 20 and can be adjusted or controlled in particular as a function of the switching of the actuator 30 .

[0060] Figure 3 Reference numeral 32 denotes a control unit for controlling at least the actuator 30 and / or the inspection device 40 .

[0061] exist Figure 4ASchematically shows the first stage of the separation device 1 in a top view. Here, the actuator 30 includes a movable push rod 31, which in the illustrated embodiment can interact with the second end 22.1.2 of the first blocking member 20.1 or the second end 22.2.2 of the second blocking member 20.2. However, it is also conceivable to make the actuator 30 interact with the first end 22.1.1 of the first blocking member 20.1 and / or the first end of the second blocking member 20.2. In the illustrated first stage, the first and second blocking members 20.1; 20.2 are pivoted to a first posture around their respective pivot axes 21.1 and 21.2 when the actuator 30 is activated. In this first posture, it is in a blocking configuration, wherein the trailing component 2.1 is pressed against the first end 22.1.1 of the blocking member 20.1 of the blocking device 20 and the first end 22.2.1 of the second blocking member 20.2 and stops. Therefore, in this first posture, the transport path 16 of the trailing component 2.1 is blocked. The component 2 . 1 located in front as viewed in the transport direction 11 is stopped, and the component 2 following behind is also stopped.

[0062] exist Figure 4B 1 and 2. The first end 22.1.1 of the first blocking member 20.1 of the blocking device 20 and the first end 22.2.1 of the opposite second blocking member 20.2 are separated from each other, thereby making way for the trailing component 2.1 so that it can enter the respective working areas W of the first blocking member 20.1 and the second blocking member 20.2. The component 2.1 is stopped by the second end 22.1.2 of the first blocking member 20.1 and the second end 22.2.2 of the second blocking member 20.2 located behind in the transport direction 11. The movement of the first blocking member 20.1 and / or the second blocking member 20.2 here can be changed manually or automatically, wherein the opening width 23 (see Figure 1 ) is adjustable. Components 2 with different diameters can thus be separated without having to replace the entire blocking device 20 for this purpose. The second position, which can be referred to as the dwell position, of the first blocking member 20.1 and / or the second blocking member 20.2 can be maintained for an adjustable dwell time. Here, the dwell time corresponds approximately to the cycle duration between two switching operations of the actuator 30. Both in the blocking position and in the dwell position, at least one component 2 is at rest. This is Figure 4B At least one component 2.1 is contained in the corresponding working area W. Figure 4A In the middle is the component 2.1 which, in the first position, abuts against the first end 20.1.1 of the first barrier member 20.1 and / or the first end 20.2.1 of the second barrier member 20.2.

[0063] Figure 4C, the subsequent third phase of the separation device 1 is shown. In this third phase, the first blocking member 20.1 and the second blocking member 20.2 of the blocking device 20 are in a third position, the release position, which corresponds to the first position, the blocking position. Here, the first blocking member 20.1 and the second blocking member 20.2 are pivoted by the actuator 30, so that the component 2.1 is released and is further transported by the transport device 10 in the transport direction 11 at a defined distance 17 relative to the preceding component 2.0.

[0064] Figure 5 Another embodiment of the separation device 1 is shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the blocking device 20 includes a blocking member 20.1, which is configured to pivot around its pivot axis 21.1 and stop, stay and release the parts 2.1 entering and leaving its working area W in different postures. As shown in the figure, the actuator 30 includes an electromagnet 32, which can interact with the first end 22.1.1 of the first blocking member 20.1 or the magnetic device arranged thereon in the illustrated embodiment. However, it is also conceivable that the actuator 30 includes a movable push rod 31, which interacts with the first end 22.1.1 of the first blocking member 20.1. According to the design and arrangement of the actuator 30 relative to the pivot axis 21.1 of the blocking member 20.1, the blocking member realizes a blocking posture or other postures in its active or passive state.

Claims

1. A device (1) for separating components (2), such as rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, comprising: a transport device (10), by means of which the components (2) to be transported can be transported in a transport direction (11) along a transport path (16) to, through and out of the device (1), wherein the transport device (10) comprises at least one transport means (12) for transporting the components (2) in a single row and a stacking section (13), - a blocking device (20) having at least one blocking member (20.1; 20.2), said blocking member extending for a length along said transport direction (11) and defining a working area W for said component (2), The device (1) comprises an actuator (30), wherein the actuator (30) is designed to move at least one of the blocking members (20, 1; 20.2) pivots to a first posture in which a component (2.1) trailing into the working area (W) is stopped; and pivots from the first posture to a second posture in which the trailing component (2.1) can be accommodated in the working area (W).

2. The device (1) for separating components (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that The device (1) further comprises a control unit (32) which is designed to switch the actuator (30) in a definable cycle.

3. The device (1) for separating components (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The blocking device (20) comprises a first blocking member (20.1) arranged at a side of the transport path (16) and a second blocking member (20.2) arranged opposite thereto, wherein the first blocking member and the second blocking member can be synchronously operated by the actuator (30).

4. The device (1) for separating components (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that The opening width (23) between the first blocking member (20.1) and the second blocking member (20.2) can be matched to the diameter of the component (2).

5. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuator (30) is designed to magnetically or mechanically pivot at least one blocking component (20.1; 20.2) of the blocking device (20).

6. The device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The actuator (30) is designed to rotate a pivot axis (21.1; 21.2) of at least one blocking member (20.1; 20.2) of the blocking device (20).

7. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuator (30) is switchable in order to keep at least one blocking element (20.1; 20.2) of the blocking device (20) in the first position for an adjustable dwell time, wherein the transport of the component (2) through the device (1) is stopped.

8. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuator (30) is switchable so as to keep at least one blocking member (20.1; 20.2) of the blocking device (20) in the second posture for an adjustable dwell time, wherein the component (2) accommodated in the working area (W) of the blocking device (20) is fixed.

9. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuator (30) is switchable in order to adjust the distance (17) between components (2) that follow one another downstream of the device (1).

10. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that A sensor is included to detect the number of components (2) delivered by the device (1).

11. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The transport device (10) has at least one transport means (12) which is designed as a belt conveyor.

12. The device (1) for separating components (2) according to claim 11, characterized in that The belt conveyor is a vacuum conveyor.

13. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The components (2) can be actively transported in the stacking section (13) by compressed air or a belt conveyor.

14. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The at least one blocking member (20.1; 20.2) can be arranged and / or designed to act on taller components (2).

15. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that A bearing element (24) can be arranged on a contact plane between the at least one blocking member (20.1; 20.2) and the component (2).

16. Device (1) for separating components (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that It comprises an inspection device (40) for detecting defects of the component (2) in a stationary state by optical and / or electrical inspection, wherein the inspection is performed in time with the pivoting movement of the at least one blocking member (20.1; 20.2).

17. The device (1) for separating components (2) according to claim 16, characterized in that The inspection device (40) comprises an image acquisition device for optical inspection and / or a high voltage device for electrical inspection.

18. A method for separating components (2), such as rotationally symmetrical closures, containers and / or preforms, comprising: a) transporting the components (2) along a transport path (16) by means of a transport device (10), wherein the components (2) can be arranged in a single row and closely spaced along a stacking section (13) in front of the device (1), b) pivoting a seesaw-shaped blocking element (20.1; 20.2) into a first position by means of an actuator (30), the blocking element (20) extending over a length in the transport direction (11) and defining a working area (W) for the component (2), wherein a component (2.1) is blocked from entering the working area (W), c) pivoting the blocking element (20) configured in a seesaw-like manner into a second position by means of the actuator (30), in which the component (2.1) can be accommodated in the working area (W), and d) pivoting the blocking element (20) configured in a seesaw-like manner into the first position, wherein the component (2) is released in the transport direction (11).

19. Method for separating components (2) according to claim 18, characterized in that An adjustable dwell time is provided between step a) and step b) or between step b) and step c), the length of which can be determined by the actuator (30).

20. Method for separating components (2) according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that Before or during the separation, the component (2) in a stationary state can be optically and / or electrically inspected by means of an inspection device (40).

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