Conveying device for conveying a workpiece in a treatment installation, tunnel for protecting a treated workpiece and reducing

Abstract

The invention relates to a transport device (100) for transporting workpieces in a processing system (300), in particular for transporting vehicle bodies in a cleaning and / or coating system, the transport device (100) comprising one or more transverse displacement carriers (102) which can be moved in a main transport direction (104) on at least two parallel travel tracks (108), each transverse displacement carrier (102) comprises a chassis (110), a travel drive unit (112) and a transverse conveying device (114), each transverse displacement carrier (102) having a travel range (106) in a main conveying direction (104) and / or counter to the main conveying direction (104), the transverse conveying device (114) is arranged on the chassis (110) and has a transverse conveying direction (118) which is horizontal and perpendicular to the main conveying direction (104). The invention further relates to a tunnel (200) for protecting treated workpieces and for reducing fluid emissions and to a treatment device (300) for treating workpieces, in particular for cleaning and / or coating vehicle bodies.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a conveying device for transporting workpieces in a processing apparatus, the workpieces being, in particular, the body of a vehicle or a component of a vehicle. Furthermore, this invention relates to a tunnel for protecting the workpieces being processed and for reducing fluid discharge. Additionally, this invention relates to a processing apparatus for processing workpieces, particularly for cleaning and / or coating the body of a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] A processing apparatus having a conveying device for conveying a workpiece configured as the body of a vehicle is known from WO 2022 / 002311 A1, wherein the conveying device is sectionally surrounded by tunnel sections.

[0003] However, a potential disadvantage of this type of processing equipment is the lack of a complete tunnel surrounding the conveyor, which could lead to contamination of the processed workpieces.

[0004] Furthermore, in known processing equipment, due to the moisture in the tunnel, the power supply is located outside the tunnel, so a part of the drive equipment must be guided from the outside into the tunnel via, for example, a pole.

[0005] In addition, the tunnels known to date for processing equipment have maintenance paths inside the tunnels, thus this type of tunnel has corresponding space requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a tunnel and conveying device for a processing equipment, which can achieve the optimal throughput of workpieces.

[0007] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by a conveying device having the features of claim 1.

[0008] Conveying devices, especially those used for conveying workpieces in processing equipment.

[0009] Preferably, the conveying device is a means for conveying the body of a vehicle in a cleaning and / or coating facility.

[0010] The conveying device preferably includes one or more lateral shifting carriers that can travel on at least two parallel travel tracks in the main conveying direction, and by means of the lateral shifting carriers, the workpiece can be conveyed in its lateral orientation.

[0011] The transverse orientation of the workpiece, in particular the orientation of the workpiece as follows, such that the main longitudinal axis of the workpiece, in particular the main longitudinal axis of the carrier body, is oriented laterally, preferably at least approximately perpendicular to the direction of movement, in particular the main conveying direction, when the workpiece is conveyed along the direction of movement, in particular the main conveying direction.

[0012] Preferably, each lateral displacement vehicle includes a chassis, a driving unit, and a lateral conveying device.

[0013] In addition, it can be specified that each lateral displacement vehicle has a range of travel along and / or against the main transport direction.

[0014] Advantageously, the travel ranges of two adjacent lateral transfer vehicles overlap, so that at least in the overlapping area of ​​the two travel ranges, the two lateral transfer vehicles can travel to the same position with reference to the main transport direction for lateral transport of the workpiece.

[0015] Furthermore, it can be specified that the transverse conveying device is arranged on the base frame and has a horizontal transverse conveying direction that is perpendicular to the main conveying direction.

[0016] Workpieces transported on a lateral shifting carrier can be transported downwards from the lateral shifting carrier along the lateral conveying direction by a lateral conveying device, or upwards onto the lateral shifting carrier in the opposite direction of the lateral conveying direction.

[0017] In embodiments of the present invention, the base frame may be provided with two long sides that are parallel to each other in the transverse conveying direction and two short sides that are parallel to each other in the main conveying direction.

[0018] Therefore, the base frame preferably has a rectangular shape. However, it is also possible to consider that the base frame can be constructed in other shapes.

[0019] The underframe must be at least as wide as the distance between the two running tracks, i.e., the track gauge. Preferably, the underframe protrudes beyond the running tracks on both sides.

[0020] The transverse conveyor preferably extends the length of the main longitudinal axis of the workpiece in the transverse conveying direction. Preferably, the transverse conveyor extends approximately 0.5m beyond the base frame on both sides, with reference to the transverse conveying direction perpendicular to the main conveying direction.

[0021] It may be advantageous for the underframe to include drive rollers and follower rollers guided on the travel track, as well as gauge-keeping rollers guided laterally on the travel track.

[0022] Preferably, at least one propulsion roller, at least one follower roller, and a gauge holding roller are provided for each travel track, wherein the propulsion roller is driven by the travel drive unit.

[0023] The gauge retaining rollers, which are laterally guided on the travel track, ensure that the lateral displacement carrier is held on the travel track and that the workpiece can be transported in the same manner along the main conveying direction.

[0024] It can also be specified that the underframe is connected to an energy chain, preferably a cable drag chain, for supplying power to the lateral displacement vehicle, wherein the energy chain has a traveling end and a stationary end.

[0025] The power chain ensures the following guidance of the cables required to power the lateral displacement vehicle within a defined area. This guarantees that the cables will not be caught on and torn or damaged as the lateral displacement vehicle travels back and forth along the travel track.

[0026] Another advantage is that the underframe has two end-side regions opposite each other in the lateral transport direction, which protrude beyond the travel track, wherein the following end of the energy chain is connected in one of the end-side regions to one of the long sides of the underframe.

[0027] Thus, the energy chain extends entirely alongside the driving track.

[0028] It can also be specified that the driving unit is located on the long side of the energy chain connected to the chassis.

[0029] In the design scheme of the present invention, it can be specified that the energy chain of every two adjacent lateral transport vehicles is arranged on corresponding different sides of the travel track.

[0030] This allows each lateral shifter to traverse the energy chain of an adjacent lateral shifter while preventing collisions between the energy chains of adjacent lateral shifters, thus allowing the travel ranges of two adjacent lateral shifters to overlap.

[0031] It is advantageous that the energy chain constructs a radial arc at the stationary end when it reaches the end of the travel range of the lateral displacement vehicle, which is vertically spaced from the lateral conveying device of the adjacent lateral displacement vehicle.

[0032] This is achieved in particular by the fact that the energy chain is arranged substantially vertically downward relative to the plane of the travel track, and specifically, the downward offset is so great that the upper edge of the radius arc is arranged below the lower edge of the transverse conveyor.

[0033] Preferably, it is specified that every two adjacent lateral displacement vehicles have overlapping travel ranges in the main transport direction.

[0034] It can also be specified that the transverse conveying device includes a roller conveyor or a chain conveyor, preferably a retractable chain conveyor, or is configured as such a conveying device.

[0035] It can be advantageous to arrange the workpieces separately on workpiece transport carriers, such as carriages or transverse frames, for transport and handling.

[0036] If the workpiece is conveyed on a carriage, the transverse conveying device is preferably a roller conveyor, while the transverse carriage is shorter than the carriage and therefore a chain conveyor is used in the case of the transverse carriage.

[0037] Preferably, the chain conveyor is retractable, allowing the gap between the lateral displacement carrier and the conveying equipment inside the processing container to be bridged, so that workpieces can be conveyed into and out of the processing container.

[0038] Advantageously, the conveying device includes one or more position determination mechanisms, preferably position limiting switches, for each lateral displacement carrier, by means of which the arrival at the lateral conveying position can be confirmed.

[0039] Preferably, the travel path and the positioning of the lateral transport vehicle in its lateral transport position are controlled via a position limit switch, in which a workpiece, for example, configured as the body of the transport vehicle, is transported into a processing container of a processing device. Alternatively, an encoder, such as a barcode reader, can be used for position determination. However, in humid environments, especially those containing steam, the position limit switch ensures that it is less prone to failure.

[0040] Advantageously, two guide rails parallel to the travel track can be provided outside the travel track, by means of which the energy chain of the lateral displacement vehicle can be guided, and the stationary end of each energy chain is connected to the guide rail.

[0041] The guide track is offset downwards in the vertical direction relative to the travel track.

[0042] Advantageously, each guide rail is connected to at least one plug-in unit for powering the energy chain to the lateral displacement vehicle.

[0043] The plug-in unit is preferably connected to a frequency converter for controlling the drive of the lateral displacement vehicle, wherein each lateral displacement vehicle preferably includes a travel drive unit on one hand and a lateral transport drive unit on the other hand.

[0044] The object of the present invention can also be achieved by a tunnel having the features of claim 15 according to the present invention.

[0045] The tunnel is preferably used to protect the workpieces being processed and to reduce fluid emissions, such as fog or steam, which may contain contaminants resulting from the processing of the workpieces.

[0046] It can be advantageous for the tunnel to be constructed to enclose the conveying device, especially the conveying device as described above.

[0047] Advantageously, the workpiece being processed can be transported through a tunnel comprising one or more tunnel sections.

[0048] Preferably, the tunnel section includes a bottom wall, two opposing side walls, and a top wall opposite the bottom wall.

[0049] Thus, each tunnel segment forms a closed loop (Umlauf), wherein the tunnel segments are preferably arranged sequentially in the main conveying direction of the conveying device.

[0050] The tunnel sections are preferably delivered to the tunnel construction site as fully pre-assembled transport units.

[0051] In the design scheme of the present invention, it can be specified that one and / or two tunnel ends can be closed by means of a sealing device, preferably a roller shutter door.

[0052] Therefore, the tunnel atmosphere leaves the tunnel in an uncontrolled manner only when the sealing device used to introduce and extract the workpiece is opened.

[0053] In addition, it can be specified that the bottom wall includes a load-bearing frame structure.

[0054] Preferably, the load-bearing frame structure includes two external load-bearing frame sections, an internal load-bearing frame section, and a base plate arranged on the load-bearing frame sections.

[0055] With the tunnel in place, the external and internal load-bearing frame sections are bolted or welded to a common foundation support.

[0056] The base plate is preferably securely and liquid-tightly connected to the load-bearing frame section by welding. Alternatively, the base plate may be bolted to the load-bearing frame section, wherein the bolted joint is sealed with a suitable sealing material.

[0057] It is advantageous to construct two channels in the base plate, one channel being arranged between the outer load-bearing frame section and the inner load-bearing frame section, and the other channel being arranged between another outer load-bearing frame section and the inner load-bearing frame section, wherein the base plate is preferably inclined toward the channels on both sides.

[0058] The channel serves two purposes: firstly, it acts as a guide rail for receiving the energy chain with conveying devices, and secondly, it serves as a collection or outflow channel for fluids dripping from the workpiece being processed.

[0059] It can be specified that the channel includes one or more outflow openings.

[0060] The collected fluid can be discharged from the tunnel through the outflow opening. If necessary, the discharged fluid can be reused for workpiece processing, wherein the fluid is preferably purified for this purpose. Alternatively, the fluid flowing out of the tunnel is discharged as drainage.

[0061] In the design of the present invention, one or more switch cabinets may be arranged on the top wall of the tunnel, each switch cabinet including a frequency converter, which is preferably electrically connected to a conveying device arranged in the tunnel, preferably to a plug-in unit of the conveying device, via an electrical conductor extending substantially along the inner side of one of the side walls of the tunnel.

[0062] Therefore, it is necessary to protect the sensitive frequency converter from the moisture inside the tunnel.

[0063] Advantageously, the tunnel ceiling has a walkable maintenance path through which one or more switchgear units can be accessed.

[0064] Therefore, the frequency converter can be maintained independently of the other conveying devices inside the tunnel.

[0065] Preferably, the top wall of the tunnel section has one or more rigid ribs, which preferably extend from one sidewall to the other and at least generally parallel to each other.

[0066] Rigid ribs enable passage through the top wall.

[0067] In addition, it may be specified that one or more moisturizing nozzles and / or atomizing nozzles be arranged in the tunnel.

[0068] These nozzles help keep the workpieces being processed moist as they are conveyed through the tunnel.

[0069] It can be beneficial that the atmosphere in the tunnel can be drawn in and / or discharged against the direction of workpiece transport.

[0070] Preferably, the conveying direction corresponds to the main conveying direction of the conveying device.

[0071] In a typical pretreatment process for workpieces that are constructed as the main body of a vehicle, suction is performed from the cold sub-process to the hot sub-process. This ensures that steam from the hot sub-process is quickly discharged or extracted from the tunnel and is not distributed to subsequent sub-processes.

[0072] Advantageously, fresh air can be supplied at at least one of the tunnel ends.

[0073] Fresh air or intake air is supplied into the tunnel by freely drawing in filtered hall air or ambient air at the end of the tunnel in a manner corresponding to the exhaust volume of the suction. The workpiece is then conveyed out of the tunnel at the end of the tunnel.

[0074] The object of the present invention can also be achieved by a processing device according to the present invention having the features of claim 28.

[0075] The processing equipment is preferably used for processing workpieces, especially for cleaning and / or coating vehicle bodies.

[0076] It can be specified that the processing equipment includes:

[0077] - At least one processing plane having multiple individual processing containers, the processing containers including processing chambers for receiving workpieces;

[0078] - At least two transfer stations, preferably at least two lifting stations, for introducing workpieces into and / or drawing them out of the processing plane;

[0079] - As described above, the conveying device allows workpieces to be conveyed into and / or out of the processing container; and

[0080] - As described above, the tunnel surrounds the conveying device and is connected to the processing container.

[0081] The processing plane preferably includes multiple processing sub-processes, wherein each processing sub-process may be associated with one or more processing containers.

[0082] Furthermore, it can be specified that the workpiece can be transported into the processing chamber of the processing container by a lateral shifting carrier, and can be transported out of the processing chamber of the processing container by an adjacent lateral shifting carrier.

[0083] Therefore, it is preferable to transfer workpieces via only one of the processing containers. This means that, since the overlapping travel ranges of two adjacent lateral transfer vehicles are arranged in the overlapping area or adjacent to it, the processing container can be served precisely by these two lateral transfer vehicles in the overlapping area.

[0084] Advantageously, each processing container can be supplied with workpieces by up to two lateral shifting carriers.

[0085] Preferably, it can be specified that the tunnel sections connected to the processing containers are wider than the tunnel sections between the processing containers.

[0086] In the design of the present invention, the tunnel may include an access door through which the tunnel and / or processing containers can be accessed, wherein the access door is arranged between the processing containers.

[0087] One advantage is that the access door can be locked electronically.

[0088] Preferably, it can be stipulated that the access door can only be unlocked when the conveyor is stopped, in order to ensure the safety of maintenance personnel.

[0089] Furthermore, it can be specified that the tunnel has a suction opening in its top wall, which is preferably arranged before each processing container.

[0090] This allows for better regulation of the extraction of air along the tunnel.

[0091] Other preferred features and / or advantages of the invention are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and the subject matter described below. Attached Figure Description

[0092] In the attached diagram:

[0093] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a section of an embodiment of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown;

[0094] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the segments of the implementation method;

[0095] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A schematic side view of the segment;

[0096] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a section of an embodiment of a tunnel according to the invention is shown, which has received an embodiment of a conveying device according to the invention. Figures 1 to 3 The section;

[0097] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a tunnel section according to an embodiment of the tunnel of the present invention;

[0098] Figure 6 A schematic top view of a first embodiment of a processing apparatus according to the present invention is shown, the processing apparatus having a conveying device having four lateral displacement carriers;

[0099] Figure 7 A schematic top view of a second embodiment of a processing apparatus according to the invention is shown, the processing apparatus having a conveying device having six lateral displacement carriers; and

[0100] Figure 8 A schematic top view of a third embodiment of a processing apparatus according to the invention is shown, the processing apparatus having a conveying device having seven lateral displacement carriers.

[0101] Identical or functionally equivalent elements are given the same reference numerals in all the figures. Detailed Implementation

[0102] The conveying device as a whole is marked with 100. Figures 1 to 3 The embodiment shown is used for conveying workpieces (not shown).

[0103] The conveying device 100 is particularly a device for conveying workpieces constructed as the main body of a vehicle, which are processed in the processing equipment 300.

[0104] Processing equipment 300, especially cleaning equipment and / or coating equipment.

[0105] Further details will be provided below. Figures 6 to 8 The detailed description includes the processing equipment 300 of the conveying device 100 according to the present invention.

[0106] The conveying device 100 includes one or more lateral shifting carriers 102, by means of which workpieces are conveyed in the main conveying direction 104.

[0107] Figure 1 The lateral displacement vehicle 102 on the right side of the middle is Figure 2 The diagram is shown in a schematic three-dimensional form, and Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 Side view.

[0108] While the workpiece is preferably conveyed substantially along the conveyor 100 in the main conveying direction 104, the lateral shifting carrier 102 itself can travel both in and against the main conveying direction 104, wherein each lateral shifting carrier 102 has a secure travel range 106.

[0109] The travel ranges 106 of two adjacent lateral displacement vehicles 102 overlap.

[0110] exist Figure 1 In the middle, the lower travel range 106 is associated with the lateral displacement vehicle 102 on the left and the upper travel range 106 is associated with the lateral displacement vehicle 102 on the right.

[0111] Figure 1 The lateral displacement vehicle 102 shown has at least substantially reached the end of its travel range 106 against the main transport direction 104, while the other ends of the associated travel range 106 are located on the right side. Figure 1 The outside, Figure 1 Only a section of the conveyor 100 is shown.

[0112] The workpiece, preferably constructed as the body of a transport vehicle, is preferably transported onto the lateral transfer carrier 102 with its lateral orientation. This, for example, means that the longitudinal extension of the body of the transport vehicle is oriented horizontally and perpendicular to the main transport direction 104.

[0113] The lateral displacement vehicle 102 travels on two parallel travel tracks 108. Therefore, the gauge width of the travel tracks 108 is preferably constant along the entire transport route or the entire travel range of the conveying device 100.

[0114] Each lateral transfer vehicle 102 includes a chassis 110, a driving unit 112, and a lateral conveying device 114.

[0115] A transverse conveyor 114, configured as a roller conveyor 116 and / or a chain conveyor, preferably a retractable chain conveyor, is arranged on the base frame 110.

[0116] The transverse conveying device 114 has a transverse conveying direction 118 that extends horizontally and perpendicularly to the main conveying direction 104.

[0117] The workpiece can be conveyed downward from the corresponding lateral shift carrier 102 of the conveying device 100 along the lateral conveying direction 118, that is, transverse to the main conveying direction 104, by means of the lateral conveying device 114, and conveyed upward onto the lateral shift carrier 102 of the conveying device 100 in the opposite direction of the lateral conveying direction 118.

[0118] The workpiece is preferably arranged on a workpiece transport carrier, such as a carriage or traverse. The workpiece is particularly supported on and connected to the workpiece transport carrier, at least temporarily.

[0119] The rectangular base frame 110 includes two parallel long sides 120 oriented in the transverse conveying direction and two short sides 122 oriented in the main conveying direction 104.

[0120] The long side 120 of the base frame 110 is longer than the gauge of the travel rails 108, that is, the spacing between the travel rails 108. In other words, the base frame 110 protrudes beyond the travel rails 108 on both sides in the lateral conveying direction 114.

[0121] On one hand, the chassis 110 includes at least two propulsion rollers 124, which are guided on the travel track 108 and driven by the travel drive unit 112. On the other hand, the chassis 110 includes at least two follower rollers 126, which are also guided on the travel track 108.

[0122] Furthermore, the base frame 110 includes at least two gauge retaining rollers 128, preferably four, which are conveyed on one side of the travel track 108, i.e., on the surface of the travel track 108 pointing in the lateral conveying direction 114. Preferably, two gauge retaining rollers 128 are guided on one of the inwardly pointing surfaces of the travel track 108, i.e., on one of the surfaces of the travel track 108 pointing towards each other, while two other gauge retaining rollers 128 are guided on the other inwardly pointing surface of the travel track 108, such that the associated lateral displacement carrier 102 can be smoothly and / or guided in an orientation-invariant manner along the main conveying direction 104 on the travel track 106.

[0123] The lateral shifting carrier 102 also includes a lateral conveying drive unit 130, by which the lateral conveying device 114 can move the workpiece in the lateral conveying direction 118.

[0124] Each lateral displacement carrier 102 is powered via an energy chain 132, preferably a cable drag chain.

[0125] For this purpose, guide rails 134 are respectively provided on both sides of the outside of the travel track 108 and offset downward in the vertical direction, in which the energy chain 132 of the lateral displacement vehicle 102 is guided.

[0126] The guide track 134 preferably extends at least substantially parallel to the travel track 108.

[0127] The energy chain 132 includes a stationary end 136 and a moving end 138.

[0128] The stationary end 136 is secured to or in the corresponding guide rail 134, while the traveling end 138 is secured to the underframe 110 of the lateral displacement vehicle 102.

[0129] Each guide rail 134 is connected to at least one plug-in unit 140, through which current is supplied to the power chain 132.

[0130] Each underframe 110 has two end-side regions 142 that are opposite each other in the lateral transport direction 114 and protrude beyond the travel track 108.

[0131] The corresponding energy chain 132 is fastened or arranged at one of the end regions 142 of the lateral displacement vehicle 102, preferably at the long side 120, so that the energy chain 132 is always guided outside the travel track 108 during the movement of the lateral displacement vehicle 102.

[0132] The energy chain 132 of each pair of adjacent lateral displacement vehicles 102 is arranged on corresponding different sides of the travel track 108, such as... Figure 1 As shown.

[0133] exist Figure 1 As can be seen from the two lateral displacement vehicles 102 shown, the following end 138 of the power chain 132 of the left lateral displacement vehicle 102 is arranged in the right end region 142 of the travel track 108 with reference to the main transport direction 104. Meanwhile, the following end 138 of the power chain 132 of the right lateral displacement vehicle 102 is arranged in the left end region 142 of the travel track 108 with reference to the main transport direction 104. Therefore, the power chains 132 of these two adjacent lateral displacement vehicles 102 are arranged on different sides of the travel track 108.

[0134] The power chain 132 of the lateral displacement vehicle 102 is also preferably connected to the lateral displacement vehicle 102 such that the long sides 120 of two adjacent lateral displacement vehicles 102 pointing towards each other are connected to the following end 138 of the corresponding power chain 132, or neither of the two long sides 120 is connected to the following end 138 of the power chain 132.

[0135] Reference Figure 1 This means that the left-side lateral transfer vehicle 102, located on the left, does not have a following end 138 of the power chain 132 at its long side 120, which points along the main transport direction 104 and therefore faces the left-side lateral transfer vehicle 102. Similarly, the lateral transfer vehicle 102 located on the left... Figure 1 The right-side lateral shifter 102 does not have a following end 138 of the power chain 132 at its long side 120, which points against the main transport direction 104 and therefore faces... Figure 1 The lateral displacement vehicle 102 on the right side of the middle.

[0136] The driving drive units 112 of the lateral displacement vehicle 102 are preferably arranged at the same long side 120 as the following end 138 of the associated lateral displacement vehicle 102 and the corresponding energy chain 132.

[0137] Upon reaching one of the two ends of the travel range 106, the power chain 132 of the lateral displacement vehicle 102 constructs a radial arc 144 at its stationary end 136. This radial arc is vertically spaced from the lateral transport device 114 of the adjacent lateral displacement vehicle 102, which at least partially traverses the radial arc 144. In other words, the lateral displacement vehicle 102 does not contact the radial arc 144 of the adjacent lateral displacement vehicle 102 as it moves back and forth along the travel track 108.

[0138] Through the Figure 1 and Figure 3 Observations show that Figure 1 The left-hand lateral shifter 102 has at least substantially reached the end of its travel range 106 against the main transport direction 104. Similarly, Figure 1 The lateral displacement vehicle 102 on the right side has at least reached the end of its travel range 126 in the opposite direction of the main transport 104.

[0139] Through the alternating arrangement of the following ends 138 of the energy chain 132, Figure 1The left-hand lateral displacement vehicle 102 constructs a radius arc 144 at the stationary end 136 of its energy chain 132 when it reaches the end of its travel range 106, the radius arc 144 referring to Figure 1 The lateral conveying device 114 of the lateral shifting carrier 102 on the right side is retained below the lateral conveying device 114 and does not contact the lateral conveying device 114, as in Figure 3 This can be seen from the above. This ensures that... Figure 1 The lateral displacement vehicle 102 on the right side of the middle is not subject to the following degrees of freedom. Figure 1 The radius arc 144 of the lateral displacement vehicle 102 on the left side is limited. Meanwhile, Figure 1 The energy chain 132 of the lateral displacement vehicle 102 on the left side is protected from... Figure 1 The influence of the lateral conveying device 114 of the lateral shifting carrier 102 on the right side of the middle.

[0140] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a section of an embodiment of the tunnel 200 according to the present invention is shown, the section having Figures 1 to 3 Sections of the conveying device 100 according to the present invention.

[0141] It should be understood that the entire tunnel 200 preferably accommodates and surrounds the entire conveying device 100.

[0142] The tunnel 200 is used to protect the processed workpieces conveyed by the conveyor 100. Simultaneously, the tunnel 200 is preferably used to avoid and / or reduce fluid discharge that could otherwise be released into the environment through the processing of the workpieces or the processed workpieces themselves. This could be, for example, mist or vapor containing contaminants.

[0143] Tunnel 200 includes one or more tunnel segments 201, such as in Figure 5 The schematic 3D diagram is shown in the image.

[0144] Tunnel section 201 is arranged sequentially along the main transport direction 104.

[0145] The tunnel section 201 includes a bottom wall 202, two side walls 204 opposite to each other, and a top wall 206 opposite to the bottom wall 202.

[0146] Tunnel 200 has a closure device, such as a roller shutter, at one or both of its ends, such that the tunnel is only open to the environment for conveying workpieces in or out, and thereby ensures that as little tunnel atmosphere as possible enters the environment.

[0147] The bottom wall 202 on which the conveying device 100 is arranged and / or supported includes or is configured as such a load-bearing frame structure 208.

[0148] The load-bearing frame structure 208 includes two external load-bearing frame sections 210, an internal load-bearing frame section 212, and a base plate 214 arranged on the load-bearing frame sections 210 and 212.

[0149] The load-bearing frame sections 210 and 212 are preferably constructed of quadrangular steel pipes.

[0150] Two channels 216 are constructed in the base plate 214, one of which is arranged between an outer load-bearing frame section 210 and an inner load-bearing frame section 212, and the other is arranged between another outer load-bearing frame section 210 and an inner load-bearing frame section 212.

[0151] The base plate 214 is preferably inclined toward the channel 216 on both sides of the channel 216, that is, the base plate 214 has a slope toward the side wall 204 in the area above the internal load-bearing frame section 212, and the section of the base plate 216 between the side wall 204 and the channel 216 also has a slope toward the opposite side wall 204.

[0152] Due to the slope, fluid dripping or flowing in the tunnel, such as fluid retained on the workpiece after a corresponding processing or processing sub-process, can flow into channel 216 and be discharged from the interior of the tunnel via channel 216, which has one or more outflow openings (not shown).

[0153] Depending on the type and amount of fluid collected downstream of the outflow opening, the collected fluid can be resupplied to the fluid tank or matching tank of the treatment unit 300 via a return guide line, or it can ultimately be discharged from the treatment unit as drainage.

[0154] For the purpose of passage, the base plate 214 may be implemented entirely or partially as a textured plate, while the channel 216 is preferably constructed of a smooth plate.

[0155] The internal load-bearing frame section 212 is designed and configured to bear the load of the conveying device 100.

[0156] In order to withstand the load of the conveying device 100, the internal load-bearing frame section 212 of each tunnel section 201 includes at least two longitudinal load members 218 oriented in the main conveying direction 104 and the travel track 108 of the conveying device 100 is arranged on the longitudinal load members.

[0157] The external load-bearing frame section 210 is used to bear the load of the corresponding sidewall 204.

[0158] The guide rail 134 of the conveying device 100, which has an energy chain 132, is preferably arranged in the channel 216.

[0159] Preferably, the top wall 206 of each tunnel section 201 is reinforced with a plurality of rigid ribs 219, which are preferably oriented horizontally and perpendicular to the main transport direction 104 and extend from one side wall 204 to the other side wall 204 respectively.

[0160] The top wall 206 can be constructed from a plurality of panels 220 arranged sequentially in the main conveying direction 104, with rigid ribs 219 arranged in the lateral flanges 221 of the panels. The rigid ribs 219 are arranged between the two lateral flanges 221 of two adjacent panels 220.

[0161] Similarly, the sidewall 204 can be constructed from a plurality of panels 220 arranged sequentially in the main conveying direction 104.

[0162] One or more switch cabinets 222 are arranged on the top wall 206 of the tunnel 200 or tunnel section 201, each including and surrounding a frequency converter (not shown).

[0163] The frequency converter is electrically connected to the conveyor device 100 arranged within the tunnel 200. Preferably, the frequency converter is connected to the plug-in unit 140 of the conveyor device 100.

[0164] The electrical conductor between the frequency converter and the conveying device 100 or the plug-in unit 140 extends substantially along the inside of one of the side walls 204 of the tunnel 200.

[0165] The top wall 206 of the tunnel 200 preferably also has a passable maintenance path 224 through which the switch cabinet 222 can be accessed for maintenance purposes or similar purposes.

[0166] The accessible maintenance path 224 on the top wall 206 may be designed with or formed of a grid and / or mesh panel. Furthermore, the accessible maintenance path 224 is preferably protected with railings or similar features to prevent falls.

[0167] In addition, multiple moisturizing nozzles and / or atomizing nozzles (not shown) can be arranged in the tunnel 200 to keep the workpiece to be processed moist along the main conveying direction 104.

[0168] The atmosphere in tunnel 200 can preferably be drawn in the opposite direction of the main transport direction 104. Controlled air extraction here ensures continuous flow through tunnel 200 and the removal of vapors.

[0169] In a typical pretreatment process for workpieces that are constructed as the main body of a vehicle, suction is performed from the cold sub-process being treated towards the hot sub-process being treated. This ensures that steam from the hot sub-process is quickly discharged or extracted from the tunnel 200 and is not distributed to subsequent sub-processes.

[0170] For suction purposes, the top wall has multiple suction openings 226, which are preferably attached to an exhaust collection duct with an exhaust fan.

[0171] In order to regulate the volumetric flow rate of the suction at the suction opening 226, a throttling mechanism is provided in each outlet branch from the corresponding suction opening to the exhaust collection pipeline.

[0172] Fresh air or intake air is supplied to the tunnel 200 by freely drawing in filtered hall air or ambient air at the end of the tunnel in a manner corresponding to the exhaust volume of the suction. The workpiece is conveyed out of the tunnel 200 at the end of the tunnel.

[0173] Figure 6 A top view of one of the processing planes 302 of the processing device 300, which are preferably arranged in a plurality of overlapping processing planes, shows a first embodiment of the processing device 300.

[0174] exist Figure 6 In the processing plane, nine processing containers 304 are arranged side by side on the main conveying direction 104.

[0175] Referring to the main conveying direction 104, the first, fourth, fifth, eighth, and ninth processing containers are associated with processing sub-processes that may be the same or different. The second and third processing containers 304 are associated together with another processing sub-process, as are the sixth and seventh processing containers 304. Preferably, two processing containers 304 are provided for each processing sub-process with a longer processing duration, so that these processing sub-processes do not limit the throughput of workpieces.

[0176] Each processing container 304 includes a processing chamber 306 for receiving workpieces.

[0177] The workpiece can be introduced into and / or drawn out of the processing chamber 306 of the corresponding processing container 304 via a supply opening 308 that is preferably fluid-tightly sealed.

[0178] At the start of the processing step, i.e. in front of the first processing container 304, the workpiece is introduced into the processing plane 302 by means of the transfer station 310, and at the end of the processing step, i.e. after the last processing container, the workpiece is taken out of the processing plane 302 by means of other transfer stations 310.

[0179] The transfer station is preferably constructed as an elevator station 312.

[0180] A tunnel 200 is arranged in front of the processing container 304 in the processing plane 302, such as in Figure 4 and Figure 5 As described, the tunnel 200 is connected to the processing container in the area of ​​the supply opening 308.

[0181] The tunnel section 201 of tunnel 200 that is directly adjacent to or connected to the processing container 304 is preferably wider than the tunnel section 201 between the two processing containers 304.

[0182] Between the processing containers 304, the tunnel 200 preferably has a plurality of access doors, through which the tunnel 200 and / or processing containers 304 can be accessed for maintenance and / or cleaning purposes.

[0183] The access door 314 is preferably electrically locked and unlocked. Preferably, the access door 314 is only unlocked when the conveyor 100 arranged in the tunnel 200 stops.

[0184] exist Figure 6 The conveying device 100 arranged in the tunnel 200 includes four lateral displacement vehicles 102, whose travel range 106 is marked by double arrows.

[0185] exist Figure 6 The lateral shifting carrier 102 of the conveying device 100 shown is hereinafter numbered along the main conveying direction 104 for ease of association. Therefore, Figure 6 The leftmost lateral displacement vehicle 102 is the first lateral displacement vehicle 102, and Figure 6 The rightmost lateral displacement vehicle 102 is the fourth lateral displacement vehicle 102.

[0186] exist Figure 6 The transfer station 310, located on the left side and at the beginning of the processing step on the processing plane 302, transfers the workpiece from the first lateral displacement carrier 102 into the processing plane 302.

[0187] Then, the first lateral displacement carrier 102 causes the corresponding workpiece to travel along the travel track 106 in the main conveying direction 104 until it reaches the height of the first processing container 304.

[0188] In order to position and orient the lateral transfer carrier 102 in front of the processing container 304, the conveying device 100 includes a plurality of position determination mechanisms, such as position limit switches, by means of which the arrival at the lateral conveying position 316 can be confirmed.

[0189] Possible and suitable lateral transport positions 316 in Figure 6 The simplified (stilisiert) lateral conveyor 102 in front of the processing container 304 is shown in the middle.

[0190] After reaching the first lateral conveying position 316 in front of the first processing container 304, the conveyed workpiece is conveyed into the processing chamber 306 of the processing container 304 through the supply opening 308 by means of the lateral conveying device 114.

[0191] After the processing sub-process of the first processing container 304, the processed workpiece is transported out of the processing chamber 306 of the first processing chamber 304 by means of the lateral conveying device 114 of the first lateral transfer carrier 102, and is further transported by the first lateral transfer carrier 102 to one of the two processing containers 304 of the subsequent processing sub-process, namely the second processing container or the third processing container 304.

[0192] In the area of ​​this processing sub-process, the processed workpiece or the workpiece to be further processed is transferred to the second lateral transfer carrier 102 via the processing chamber 306 of the second processing container or the third processing container 304. The lateral conveying device 114 of the second lateral transfer carrier 102 transports the workpiece processed in the second processing sub-process out of the processing chamber.

[0193] Next, the second lateral transfer carrier 102 transports the received workpieces to the fourth processing container of the third and fourth processing sub-processes, and subsequently to the fifth processing container 304.

[0194] The processed workpiece is transported away from the fifth processing container 304 associated with the fourth processing sub-process by the lateral conveying device 114 of the third lateral transfer carrier 102.

[0195] Then, the third lateral transfer carrier 102 transports the workpiece to the sixth or seventh processing container 304, both of which are associated with the fifth processing sub-process. Next, the third lateral transfer carrier 102 carries the processed workpiece into the eighth processing container 304 of the sixth processing sub-process.

[0196] The workpiece processed in the eighth processing container 304 is transported away by the fourth lateral transfer carrier 102 and into the ninth processing container 304 of the seventh and last processing sub-process.

[0197] Next, the fully processed workpiece is conveyed out of the ninth processing container 304 and transferred to... Figure 6 The transfer station 310 on the right side of the diagram is led out from the processing plane 302 shown.

[0198] It should be understood that the number of processing containers 304 can be related to Figures 6 to 8 The quantities shown may differ, and furthermore, the association between the processing container 304 and each processing sub-process may vary.

[0199] exist Figure 6As can be seen, the overlapping travel range 106 of two adjacent lateral displacement vehicles is designed such that each processing container 304 is served by at most two lateral displacement vehicles 102.

[0200] exist Figure 7 The image shows a second embodiment of the processing device 300, whose conveying device 100 includes six lateral shifting carriers 102.

[0201] The lateral displacement vehicle 102 relative to Figure 6 The driving range 106, which differs from the first implementation method, is also indicated by double arrows.

[0202] By providing two additional lateral displacement vehicles 102, the travel range 106 is changed relative to the first embodiment. Thus, for example, the second lateral displacement vehicle 102 only serves the second processing sub-process with the second processing container and the third processing container 304 and the third processing sub-process with the fourth processing container 304.

[0203] exist Figure 8 The image shows a third embodiment of the processing device 300, whose conveying device includes seven lateral shifting carriers 102.

[0204] The travel range 106 of these seven lateral displacement vehicles 102 is also indicated by double arrows.

[0205] The travel range 106 is further shortened by setting up three additional lateral displacement vehicles 102 or one additional lateral displacement vehicle 102.

[0206] Lateral displacement vehicle 102 Figures 6 to 8 The described travel range 106 is the result of calculations and simulations. The described travel range 106 provides optimal performance in terms of throughput per unit time for the corresponding number of lateral shifting vehicles 102 (currently four, six, or seven lateral shifting vehicles 102) and nine serviceable processing containers 304, combined with the corresponding processing duration of each processing sub-process.

[0207] However, it should be understood that with different numbers of processing containers 304 and different numbers of lateral displacement carriers 102 in the corresponding processing plane 302, different travel ranges 106 of the lateral displacement carriers 102 can be obtained, which achieves the optimal throughput of the workpiece through the processing plane 302 or the processing equipment 300.

[0208] In other words, the number of lateral shifting carriers 102 depends on the amount of workpiece to be processed and the sequence of processing sub-processes in the processing container 304 of the corresponding processing plane 302.

[0209] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0210] 100 conveyor device

[0211] 102 Lateral Displacement Vehicle

[0212] 104 Main Conveying Direction

[0213] 106 driving range

[0214] 108 travel track

[0215] 110 chassis

[0216] 112 Driving Drive Unit

[0217] 114 Horizontal Conveying Device

[0218] 116 Roller Conveyor

[0219] 118 Lateral Conveying Direction

[0220] 120 long side

[0221] 122 Short side

[0222] 124 feed rollers

[0223] 126 follower rollers

[0224] 128 gauge retaining roller

[0225] 130 lateral conveyor drive unit

[0226] 132 Energy Chain

[0227] 134 guide rail

[0228] The static end of the 136 energy chain

[0229] The end of the 138 energy chain that follows the flow of traffic

[0230] 140 plug-in unit

[0231] 142 end side region

[0232] 144 radius arc

[0233] 200 tunnels

[0234] 201 Tunnel Section

[0235] 202 bottom wall

[0236] 204 sidewall

[0237] 206 Top Wall

[0238] 208 load-bearing frame structure

[0239] 210 External load-bearing frame section

[0240] 212 Internal load-bearing frame section

[0241] 214 base plate

[0242] 216 channels

[0243] 218 Longitudinal bearing members

[0244] 219 rigid ribs

[0245] 220 panel

[0246] 221 folded edge

[0247] 222 switchgear

[0248] 224 maintenance path

[0249] 226 suction opening

[0250] 300 processing equipment

[0251] 302 processing plane

[0252] 304 processing container

[0253] 306 Processing Room

[0254] 308 supply opening

[0255] 310 Transfer Station

[0256] 312 elevator station

[0257] 314 Approach Door

[0258] 316 Lateral Conveying Position

Claims

1. A conveying device (100) for conveying workpieces in a processing equipment (300), particularly for conveying the body of a transport vehicle in a cleaning and / or coating equipment. The conveying device (100) includes one or more lateral shifting carriers (102) capable of traveling on at least two parallel travel tracks (108) in the main conveying direction (104), and capable of conveying the workpiece in its lateral orientation by means of the lateral shifting carriers. Each lateral displacement vehicle (102) includes a chassis (110), a driving unit (112), and a lateral conveying device (114). Each lateral displacement vehicle (102) has a travel range (106) along the main transport direction (104) and / or against the main transport direction (104), and The lateral conveying device (114) is arranged on the base frame (110) and has a horizontal lateral conveying direction (118) that is perpendicular to the main conveying direction (104).

2. The conveying device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base frame (110) has two long sides (120) that are parallel to each other in the transverse conveying direction (118) and two short sides (122) that are parallel to each other in the main conveying direction (104).

3. The conveying device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The base frame (110) includes a propulsion roller (124) and a follower roller (126) guided on the travel track (108) and a gauge-keeping roller (128) guided laterally on the travel track (108).

4. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The underframe (110) is connected to an energy chain (132), preferably a cable drag chain, for supplying power to the lateral displacement vehicle (102), wherein the energy chain (132) has a following end (138) and a stationary end (136).

5. The conveying device (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The underframe (110) has two end-side regions (142) opposite each other in the lateral transport direction (118), the end-side regions protruding beyond the travel track (108), wherein the following end (138) of the energy chain (132) is connected in one of the end-side regions (142) to one of the long sides (120) of the underframe (110).

6. The conveying device (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The driving unit (112) is located at the long side (120) of the energy chain (132) connected to the chassis (110).

7. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, The energy chain (132) of each pair of adjacent lateral transport vehicles (102) is arranged on corresponding different sides of the travel track (108).

8. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that, When the energy chain (132) reaches the end of the travel range (106) of the lateral displacement vehicle (102), it constructs a radius arc (144) at the stationary end (136), which is vertically spaced from the lateral conveying device (114) of the adjacent lateral displacement vehicle (102).

9. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Each pair of adjacent lateral displacement vehicles (102) has an overlapping travel range (106) in the main transport direction (104).

10. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The transverse conveying device (114) includes a roller conveyor (116) or a chain conveyor, preferably a retractable chain conveyor, or is configured as such a conveying device.

11. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The workpieces are arranged on workpiece conveying carriers, such as carriages or transverse frames, for conveying and processing.

12. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The conveying device (100) includes one or more position determination mechanisms, preferably position limiting switches, for each lateral displacement carrier (102), by means of which the position determination mechanisms can confirm arrival at the lateral conveying position (316).

13. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 4 to 12, characterized in that, Two guide rails (134) parallel to the travel track (108) are provided outside the travel track (108). The energy chain (132) of the lateral displacement vehicle (102) can be guided by the guide rails, and the stationary end (136) of each energy chain (132) is connected to the guide rail.

14. The conveying device (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that, Each guide rail (134) is connected to at least one plug-in unit (140) for supplying power to the energy chain (132) of the lateral displacement vehicle (102).

15. A tunnel (200) for protecting the workpiece being processed and reducing fluid discharge, wherein the tunnel (200) is configured to surround a conveying device (100), particularly a conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the tunnel (200) through which the workpiece can be conveyed comprises one or more tunnel sections (201).

16. The tunnel (200) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The tunnel section (201) includes a bottom wall (202), two opposing side walls (204) and a top wall (206) opposite the bottom wall (204).

17. The tunnel (200) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, One and / or two tunnel ends can be closed by means of a sealing device, preferably a roller shutter door.

18. The tunnel (200) according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that, The bottom wall (204) includes a load-bearing frame structure (208).

19. The tunnel (200) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The load-bearing frame structure (208) includes two external load-bearing frame sections (210), an internal load-bearing frame section (212), and a base plate (214) arranged on the load-bearing frame sections (210, 212).

20. The tunnel (200) according to claim 19, characterized in that, Two channels (216) are constructed in the base plate (214), one channel being arranged between one of the outer support frame sections (210) and the inner support frame section (212), and the other channel being arranged between another of the outer support frame sections (210) and the inner support frame section (212), wherein the base plate (214) is preferably inclined toward the channels (216) on both sides of the channels (216).

21. The tunnel (200) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The channel (216) includes one or more outflow openings.

22. The tunnel (200) according to any one of claims 16 to 21, characterized in that, One or more switch cabinets (222) are arranged on the top wall (206) of the tunnel (200), each switch cabinet including a frequency converter, which is preferably electrically connected to a conveying device (100) arranged in the tunnel (200) via an electrical conductor extending substantially along the inside of one of the side walls (204) of the tunnel (200), preferably to a plug-in unit (140) of the conveying device (100).

23. The tunnel (200) according to claim 22, characterized in that, The top wall (206) of the tunnel (200) has a passable maintenance path (224) through which one or more of the switch cabinets (222) can be accessed.

24. The tunnel (200) according to any one of claims 16 to 23, characterized in that, The top wall (206) of the tunnel section (201) has one or more rigid ribs (219), which preferably extend from one side wall (204) to the other side wall (204) and extend at least generally parallel to each other.

25. The tunnel (200) according to any one of claims 15 to 24, characterized in that, One or more moisturizing nozzles and / or atomizing nozzles are arranged in the tunnel (200).

26. The tunnel (200) according to any one of claims 15 to 25, characterized in that, The atmosphere in the tunnel can be drawn in and / or drawn out against the conveying direction of the workpiece, preferably against the main conveying direction (104) of the conveying device (100).

27. The tunnel (200) according to any one of claims 15 to 26, characterized in that, Fresh air can be supplied at at least one of the tunnel ends of the tunnel (200).

28. A processing apparatus (300) for processing workpieces, particularly for cleaning and / or coating vehicle bodies, wherein the processing apparatus (300) comprises: - At least one processing plane (302) having multiple individual processing containers (304), the processing containers including processing chambers (306) for receiving workpieces. - At least two transfer stations (310), preferably at least two lifting stations (312), for introducing the workpiece into and / or drawing it out from the processing plane (302); - The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 enables the workpiece to be conveyed into and / or out of the processing container (304); and - The tunnel (200) according to any one of claims 15 to 27, the tunnel surrounding the conveying device (100) and connected to the processing container (304).

29. The processing apparatus (300) according to claim 28, characterized in that, The workpiece can be transported into the processing chamber (306) of the processing container (304) by a lateral transfer carrier (102), and can be transported out of the processing chamber (306) of the processing container (304) by an adjacent lateral transfer carrier (102).

30. The processing apparatus (300) according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, Each processing container (304) can be supplied with workpieces by up to two lateral shifting carriers (102).

31. The processing apparatus (300) according to any one of claims 28 to 30, characterized in that, The tunnel sections (201) that are connected to the processing containers (304) are wider than the tunnel sections (201) between the processing containers (304).

32. The processing apparatus (300) according to claim 28 or 31, characterized in that, The tunnel (200) includes an access door (314) through which access is made to the tunnel (200) and / or the processing container (304), wherein the access door (314) is arranged between the processing containers (304).

33. The processing apparatus (300) according to claim 32, characterized in that, The access door (314) can be locked electronically, and preferably can only be unlocked when the conveying device (100) stops.

34. The processing apparatus (300) according to any one of claims 28 to 33, characterized in that, The tunnel (200) has a suction opening (226) in the top wall (206), which is preferably arranged in front of each processing container (304).

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