Conveying device, processing device and method for conveying and processing workpieces

Abstract

The invention relates to a conveying device (100) for conveying workpieces, in particular vehicle bodies, said conveying device (100) comprising:-at least one conveying section (102) having a conveying direction (104); and-one or more conveying mechanisms (106) which convey the workpieces along the at least one conveying section (102). The invention further relates to a method for conveying and machining workpieces.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a conveying device for transporting and processing workpieces, particularly the body of a transport vehicle. The invention also relates to a processing apparatus for transporting and processing workpieces, and a corresponding method for transporting and processing workpieces. Background Technology

[0002] Conveying devices are known in practice, which include conveying mechanisms or traveling carriages that allow workpieces to be processed to move linearly on conveying tracks, wherein the conveying tracks are arranged in parallel with a plurality of successively arranged processing pools.

[0003] At the end of the processing pool, the conveyor then rotates 90 to 180 degrees by means of a turntable and travels back on a return track or reverse running track to receive the next workpiece to be processed in the inlet area of ​​the processing pool.

[0004] Therefore, turntables or similar devices must always be installed at the ends of the transport or return tracks.

[0005] When setting up associated processing equipment, including conveying devices and processing pools, it is also necessary to painstakingly coordinate the conveying tracks and return tracks with each other.

[0006] To return in a space-saving manner, the rotating shaft of the conveyor flips downward along the return track, receives the workpiece to be processed on the rotating shaft, and the workpiece rotates around it for processing.

[0007] However, the hinges used for the flipping conveyor mechanism to return are constructed in a very complex manner.

[0008] The energy transfer of known conveyor mechanisms or traveling carriages is typically inductive, which limits the number of possible conveyor mechanisms or the effective load in the process.

[0009] Furthermore, in known systems, it has not yet been possible to exchange safety-oriented or safety-related signals between conveying mechanisms, fixed control and / or regulating mechanisms, and manually operated tools. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a conveying device that can be installed in a simpler, more flexible and cheaper manner while also complying with current safety regulations.

[0011] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by a conveying device for conveying workpieces having the following characteristics.

[0012] The conveying device is particularly used for conveying the main body of a vehicle, and the main body of the vehicle is processed in one or more processing pools.

[0013] For example, the treatment of the vehicle body can be pretreatment and / or cathodic immersion in a paint shop for the vehicle body, wherein the vehicle body to be treated is rotated through multiple pools filled with treatment fluid.

[0014] The conveying device includes:

[0015] - At least one conveying section with a conveying direction; and

[0016] - One or more conveying mechanisms that convey workpieces along at least one conveying path.

[0017] The conveying path is preferably arranged on a platform, such as a steel platform, so that the conveying mechanism can travel at or above the height of the upper edge of the pool filled with the processing fluid.

[0018] It is advantageous for the transport section to have at least one transport track, which includes one or more transport track elements.

[0019] Advantageously, one or more transport track elements may be curved or bent.

[0020] The conveyor track elements are preferably bent at one or more radii so that they can be used in a predetermined shape at the location where the conveyor is placed, i.e., the shape has a predetermined orientation of the conveyor section formed by the respective elements.

[0021] If multiple bending radii are provided for a transport track element, these radii can be in the same direction and / or opposite directions. The latter may result in the transport track element being constructed in, for example, an S-shape or a meandering shape.

[0022] Therefore, the conveyor path can also include tortuous sections, such as those with a semi-circular radius. As a result, traditional turntables can be replaced, and parallel conveyor path sections can be directly connected to each other using curved conveyor track elements. Thus, the design or layout of the conveyor path can be achieved in a more flexible and cost-efficient manner.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present invention, one or more conveyor track elements may be specified as aluminum conveyor track elements, which have

[0024] a) Extruded profiles; and / or

[0025] b) Double-T profile, preferably symmetrical double-T profile.

[0026] The conveyor track elements preferably constitute an electric overhead conveyor-track composite system, wherein the conveyor track elements are in particular aluminum extrusion profiles, wherein each element has a double T profile, I profile or H profile, i.e., especially a symmetrical profile.

[0027] It can also be specified that, preferably at the web of the double-T profile of the conveying track element, a [feature / equipment] is arranged at the conveying track.

[0028] a) At least one leaky waveguide for controlling and / or regulating the delivery mechanism; and / or

[0029] b) At least one symbol and / or code element, particularly at least one QR code and / or barcode element, for determining the position of the conveying mechanism along the conveying path; and / or

[0030] c) At least one, preferably four, power supply lines, especially copper power supply lines, are used for the three-phase power supply of the conveying mechanism.

[0031] In particular, the web of the transport track element has perforated profiles along the entire length of the transport track element, so that retaining elements such as snap-fits can be arranged at least substantially freely along the respective transport track element.

[0032] Then, the leakage waveguide, QR strip, and four power supply lines can be secured and guided at the transport track element using retaining elements.

[0033] The symbols and / or codes preferably have multiple consecutively arranged symbols and / or codes, preferably QR codes or matrix codes, wherein two adjacent symbols may be the same or different in shape and / or color. This allows for very accurate detection of the current position of the conveying mechanism relative to the conveying route.

[0034] The symbols and / or code elements are particularly preferably constructed as QR strips, wherein such strips comprise a plurality of consecutively arranged QR codes. Thus, the precise position of the conveyor mechanism along the conveyor path can be reliably determined by detecting one of these QR codes.

[0035] Alternatively or supplementarily, symbols and / or code elements may also be constructed as barcode elements, comprising multiple, preferably different, barcodes, by means of which the current position of the conveying mechanism relative to the conveying route can be detected.

[0036] Alternatively, instead of three-phase power supply to the conveyor mechanism, DC power can also be used to supply power to the conveyor mechanism.

[0037] Another advantage is that every two transport track elements can be connected at least substantially seamlessly.

[0038] Therefore, two adjacent transport track elements can be seamlessly installed together.

[0039] It is advantageous that at least one connection between the two transport track elements includes or is configured to include a telescopic section.

[0040] The conveyor track components can be mechanically separated from each other via telescopic sections, which can serve as length compensation and mechanical separation points.

[0041] Especially when the bottom or platform on which the conveying section is installed has a different coefficient of thermal expansion than the conveying track elements, length compensation is required. The telescopic part achieves length compensation between the conveying track elements.

[0042] Preferably, the expansion joints are arranged according to the predetermined maximum number of conveyor track elements and / or the building construction regulations.

[0043] It is advantageous that the telescopic section is arranged between the treatment pools of the processing equipment with reference to the conveying direction or conveying section, so that the conveying section section associated with the treatment pool for processing has no telescopic section between the conveying track elements.

[0044] Advantageously, the transport section may have multiple bottom supports, wherein each transport track element is arranged in a suspended manner, especially in a segmentally free-suspension manner, at at least one bottom support.

[0045] The connection between two adjacent conveyor rail elements without telescopic joints is advantageously supported by a bottom support, i.e., in particular, the relevant conveyor rail element is pushed horizontally onto the receiving part of the bottom support.

[0046] In one embodiment of the invention, each bottom support can be adjusted along and / or about a vertical axis to orient the transport track element.

[0047] Therefore, the bottom support can be calibrated vertically and by rotation to align the transport track elements relative to each other.

[0048] For example, the weight of the bottom support can be at least approximately 35 kg to 45 kg, preferably 40 kg.

[0049] It can also be specified that each conveying mechanism includes two conveying units and at least one rotating unit, the conveying units preferably being able to travel along and / or at the conveying section and / or on the conveying section, the rotating unit being arranged between the two conveying units.

[0050] The conveying mechanism is preferably configured such that the conveying units can move freely about two axes, thereby allowing the conveying mechanism to follow the curvature radius of the conveying track, and the rotating unit can rotate, pivot, or tilt between the two conveying units.

[0051] It is also advantageous that the rotating unit is connected to each of the conveying units via at least one horizontal rotating bearing and at least one vertical rotating bearing, the axis of rotation of the horizontal rotating bearing being oriented horizontally and the axis of rotation of the vertical rotating bearing being oriented vertically, wherein the horizontal and vertical axes of rotation of the rotating bearing of the corresponding conveying unit preferably intersect.

[0052] Therefore, each conveying unit is connected to the rotating unit via a universal joint or a double universal joint.

[0053] The vertical axis of rotation of the vertical rotating bearing is preferably arranged at least substantially within the plane of rotation of the running wheel of the conveying unit. Therefore, the running wheel and the vertical axis of rotation are oriented at least substantially aligned with respect to the conveying direction.

[0054] Advantageously, additional horizontal rotary bearings are arranged between the rotating unit and the conveying unit, with their horizontal rotation axes oriented perpendicular to the other two rotation axes, i.e., particularly horizontally and perpendicular to the conveying direction. This allows the conveying mechanism to also ascend and / or descend along the conveying path.

[0055] The rotating unit is preferably connected to the conveying unit in such a way that it is arranged in a manner that is at least substantially aligned with the horizontal axis of rotation of the conveying track, the running wheels of the conveying unit and / or the horizontal rotating bearings in the vertical direction, especially in the direction of gravity.

[0056] The center of gravity of the conveying mechanism does not necessarily have to be located above the reference gravity direction of the conveying track, but can also be located to the side of the conveying track with reference to the direction transverse to the conveying direction.

[0057] One advantage is that all the rotating bearings of the conveyor mechanism are arranged above the conveyor section.

[0058] Advantageously, the horizontal and vertical swivel bearings of one conveying unit may be arranged and / or configured to be mirror-symmetrical with respect to the horizontal and vertical swivel bearings of another conveying unit with respect to a plane perpendicular to the conveying direction.

[0059] In one design embodiment of the present invention, it can be specified that,

[0060] a) Horizontal rotary bearings include axial ball bearings or are configured to be such axial ball bearings; and / or

[0061] b) Vertical rotating bearings include sliding bearings or bearings constructed as such.

[0062] The axial ball bearing of the conveying unit preferably comprises two bearing shafts arranged aligned with each other, i.e., the axes of the shafts lie on a common axis.

[0063] The rotating unit can be flipped and / or uprighted at the conveying unit by means of an axial ball bearing.

[0064] Therefore, the rotating unit can preferably rotate from an upright posture to a flipped posture and from a flipped posture to an upright posture about the horizontal rotation axis of the horizontal rotating bearing of the conveying unit.

[0065] The sliding bearing has a vertical axis of rotation, which allows the corresponding conveying mechanism to follow the curved sections of the conveying track or conveying route. The conveying unit rotates about the vertical axis of rotation as it travels in a zigzag pattern, deflecting relative to the rotating unit.

[0066] Axial ball bearings are primarily used to transmit axial forces, while sliding bearings are primarily used to transmit rotational forces.

[0067] Preferably, the axis of the bearing is fixed on one hand relative to the direction of rotation to prevent torsion, and on the other hand fixed in the axial direction by a shaft nut.

[0068] It can also be specified that each conveying unit includes at least one running wheel that rolls along the conveying path on the conveying track element.

[0069] The conveying unit is preferably configured to guide the load generated or applied by the rotating unit, the received and processed workpiece, and the workpiece carrier on which the workpiece is arranged to the conveying section via at least one running wheel that rolls above or on the conveying track.

[0070] It is also advantageous that the conveying mechanism includes at least one driven conveying unit and / or at least one driven conveying unit, the driven conveying unit having at least one drive mechanism.

[0071] Preferably, at least one drive mechanism is replaceable. Therefore, the drive mechanism is constructed, in particular, in a modular manner.

[0072] Advantageously, each drive mechanism may include at least one electric motor, at least one frequency converter, and at least one transmission, which can be manually and / or automatically disconnected from and / or connected to the electric motor.

[0073] The transmission of the drive mechanism is preferably flanged laterally at the drive delivery unit and can be coupled to the running wheels. The transmission output shaft of the transmission receives the running wheels for coupling.

[0074] It is advantageous that the lever is manipulated to manually engage or disengage the transmission and motor of the drive mechanism.

[0075] The manual disengagement of the transmission and motor of the drive mechanism of the conveying unit allows the conveying mechanism to be manually moved on the conveying track when necessary.

[0076] When the lever, especially the manual lever, is switched again, the motor is reconnected to the gearbox.

[0077] The lever can also be automatically disengaged or engaged via a slid (Kulisse), or it can be disengaged or engaged by means of, for example, buttons, operating elements, or operating keys.

[0078] Advantageously, the driven conveying unit may include current collectors corresponding in number to the power supply lines of the conveying track, preferably spring-loaded finger elements that contact the power supply lines used for power supply, and in particular slide on the power supply lines.

[0079] Preferably, the four sliding contact elements are configured as current collectors, three 400V contacts and one ground contact.

[0080] In one embodiment of the invention, the driven transport unit may include at least one optical sensor mechanism, preferably a camera or laser scanner, for detecting one or more symbols and / or codes of the symbol and / or code elements of the transport track, and at least one antenna for short-segment-based communication with the leaky waveguide of the transport track.

[0081] Preferably, one of the symbols and / or code elements of the QR code configured as a QR band is detected by means of at least one optical sensor mechanism, thereby reliably detecting and determining the accurate position of the corresponding conveyor along the conveyor path.

[0082] Alternatively or supplementally, one of the transmission units may be provided with a radio antenna, which enables wireless communication with the fixed control and / or regulation mechanism of the transmission device, in addition to communication based on short-circuit segments via a leaky waveguide.

[0083] It is also conceivable that one of the transmission units has a radio antenna, which can alternatively or supplementally communicate wirelessly with the fixed control and / or regulation mechanism of the transmission device, especially in the absence of a leakage waveguide.

[0084] It can also be specified that the positions of the driving and driven conveying units relative to the rotating unit are interchangeable.

[0085] It is also beneficial that each conveying unit has at least one maintenance inlet, preferably a closable maintenance door, which is preferably located on the side of the conveying unit away from the conveying track.

[0086] This allows for easy access, for example, to sliding current collectors, cameras, or laser scanners, for maintenance or adjustment work.

[0087] Advantageously, each conveying unit may include at least one pair, preferably four pairs, of guide rollers that roll laterally and relative to each other on the conveying track, wherein the guide rollers can be adjusted to adapt to the trajectory guidance of the corresponding conveying mechanism.

[0088] In order to reliably keep the conveying mechanism on the track of the conveying rail, eight guide rollers are preferably arranged in an adjustable manner at each conveying unit.

[0089] The guide rollers preferably roll laterally along the four sides of the double-T profile of the conveying track element, and are arranged in pairs opposite to each other, so that the two guide rollers roll successively along each side with reference to the conveying direction.

[0090] In addition to trajectory guidance, possible lateral forces are directed onto the conveyor track via guide rollers. These lateral forces can be generated, for example, by the flipping or uprighting of the rotating unit.

[0091] Advantageously, the rotating unit may include a shaft that is rotatably connected to the rotating unit and extends in a plane perpendicular to the conveying direction.

[0092] In one design of the present invention, it can be specified that the shaft can be rotated by the rotating unit around the rotation axis of the horizontal rotating bearing of the conveying unit, and can be transformed together with the rotating unit into at least one workpiece processing posture and at least one return posture.

[0093] It can also be specified that the shaft has running rollers at its end pointing away from the rotating unit.

[0094] It is also advantageous that the conveying device includes at least one reverse running track arranged below the conveying section with reference to the direction of gravity, and is configured such that the running rollers of the conveying mechanism roll on them in the return posture of the rotating unit or shaft.

[0095] It is advantageous to have at least two workpiece carrier receiving parts spaced apart from each other at the axis.

[0096] Advantageously, the workpiece carrier receiving portion may be configured to be substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to a plane in which the axis of the shaft extends.

[0097] Furthermore, the centers of the conveying units of the conveying mechanism or their running wheels are preferably spaced apart from each other and / or spaced apart from the axis of the shaft so that, for example, when the rotating unit is flipped or upright, the running wheels will not face the risk of derailing from the conveying track in the event of a shift in the center of gravity of the conveying mechanism.

[0098] In one embodiment of the invention, the rotating unit is connected to each conveying unit by means of at least one flexible and replaceable hose connection located outside the conveying mechanism, and a power supply wire is guided through the hose connection. Preferably, the hose connection has a quick-locking element (Schnellverschluss) at at least one end.

[0099] The power supply section of the rotating unit is preferably implemented as flexible due to the movable rotary bearing between the rotating unit and the two conveying units.

[0100] The length of the hose connection is preferably determined by the maximum possible range of motion of the connection between the rotating unit and the conveying unit.

[0101] Each hose connection can be replaced, in particular, with the wire that is guided through it.

[0102] It can also be specified that the rotating unit has at least one drive mechanism, which includes at least one motor, at least one frequency converter and at least one gearbox, by means of which the shaft can rotate about its axis.

[0103] It is also advantageous that at least one transport segment includes at least one processing segment and at least one return segment, as well as at least two turning segments, the return segment preferably being arranged at least substantially parallel to the at least one processing segment, and the turning segments correspondingly connecting the at least one processing segment and the at least one return segment to each other in a manner opposite to each other to form a closed transport segment.

[0104] The processing section and the return section are preferably arranged at least approximately at the same height level with reference to the direction of gravity.

[0105] The processing section and the return section, which are arranged in parallel with it, are spaced 4 to 8 meters apart, preferably 6 meters apart.

[0106] One advantage is that at least one transport route is divided into multiple safety zones.

[0107] Advantageously, each safety zone may be associated with at least two safety modes, wherein preferably one safety mode is an emergency stop mode and the other safety mode is a mode with reduced conveying speed.

[0108] Emergency stop mode should preferably not be bypassed.

[0109] Preferably, a signal for a mode with a reduced conveying speed is generated by a push-button switch or by the operation of a manual operating device.

[0110] It is advantageous, especially when switching to a mode with a reduced conveying speed during manual operation of the conveyor mechanism.

[0111] At least one safety zone is preferably a maintenance zone that is associated with the emergency stop mode.

[0112] The position of each conveyor along the conveying path can be determined through an optical sensor mechanism.

[0113] Preferably, the fixed control and / or regulating mechanism is always aware of the safe position of each conveying mechanism, wherein a safe position should be understood as a position that is itself safe, can be safely detected by the optical sensor mechanism, can be safely transmitted to the fixed control and / or regulating mechanism, and can also be safely handled by the fixed control and / or regulating mechanism.

[0114] By identifying, transmitting, and processing the safe location of the conveyor along the conveyor route, personnel safety is maintained in accordance with the mechanical directive (maschinenrichtlinienkonform).

[0115] The fixed control and / or regulation unit of the conveying mechanism is preferably safety-oriented, which in particular relates to communication between the conveying mechanism and the fixed control and / or regulation unit.

[0116] The primary focus here is on improving personnel safety.

[0117] It can also be specified that the mobile operating mechanism or mobile operating device, such as a manual operating device, is battery-powered and wirelessly communicates with the control and / or adjustment mechanism of the conveying mechanism, wherein the radius of use or effective area of ​​the mobile operating mechanism is defined by the selection of wireless communication.

[0118] It can also be specified that one or more effective areas are preferably set along the conveying route within the area of ​​the conveying device, which are secure and / or adaptable on the one hand, and especially safety-oriented on the other hand.

[0119] Each effective zone is associated with one or more conveying mechanisms, which, for personnel safety reasons, can preferably only be controlled and / or adjusted from the associated effective zone. This specifically means that the effective zone is connected to the location area of ​​the conveying mechanism.

[0120] An effective area can be a visible, working, and / or dwelling area where the operator is located and can only operate or dispatch the associated conveyor mechanism from that area, i.e., especially control and / or adjust it. Therefore, the operator cannot control and / or adjust a conveyor mechanism in another effective area, which avoids, for example, remote control of a conveyor mechanism in another work area that is not visible to the operator, and thus could potentially harm or injure other operators or workers in that area.

[0121] It is also beneficial that the operating mechanism or device includes safety-oriented operating elements, such as a dual-channel enable switch and / or emergency stop trigger function.

[0122] Furthermore, the operating mechanism is preferably configured to initiate an emergency stop when it leaves the associated effective area, especially without prior withdrawal.

[0123] It can also be stipulated that mobile operating mechanisms or mobile operating devices must always log in first in the corresponding valid area in order to activate their operational feasibility.

[0124] Alternative or supplementary locations may stipulate that the moving operating mechanism must be synchronized with the corresponding effective area to activate its operational feasibility, thereby ensuring consistency of the corresponding data items.

[0125] It can also be specified that the conveying device is configured to control and / or regulate the motion of the conveying mechanism, i.e., preferably the translational and rotational motion, and / or the distance between every two conveying mechanisms.

[0126] The latter is especially intended to avoid collisions between conveying mechanisms and / or between conveying mechanisms and the area surrounding the conveying device.

[0127] The movement of the conveying mechanisms and the distances between them can preferably be parameterized, wherein the parameters can be pre-adjusted and / or automatically set or adapted according to the position information of each conveying mechanism.

[0128] According to the present invention, the conveying device for conveying workpieces further includes a processing device for conveying and processing workpieces, especially the main body of the transport vehicle.

[0129] The processing equipment here includes:

[0130] - At least one processing area having at least one, preferably multiple, sequentially arranged processing tanks filled with processing fluid for workpiece processing; and

[0131] - At least one conveying device according to the invention,

[0132] At least one of the conveying devices is arranged on one side of at least one processing area.

[0133] It can also be specified that a lifting device with a lifting direction is provided in the entrance area and / or exit area of ​​the processing area, which lifts and / or lowers the shaft of the conveying mechanism.

[0134] The object of the present invention is also achieved by a method for conveying and handling workpieces having the following features.

[0135] The method according to the present invention includes the following steps:

[0136] - Transfer the workpiece to the conveying device according to the invention, wherein the conveying device is arranged laterally in the processing area of ​​the processing equipment, which includes a plurality of processing pools arranged in succession and filled with processing fluid.

[0137] - The workpiece is received on the shaft of one of the multiple conveying mechanisms of the conveying device, the workpiece being preferably arranged on a workpiece carrier, wherein the conveying mechanism for receiving the workpiece is in its handling posture.

[0138] - The accepted workpiece is conveyed along the conveyor section, wherein the workpiece is rotated through the fluid tank of one or more processing pools of the processing equipment by means of the rotating unit of the conveyor mechanism in the processing section of the conveyor section.

[0139] - The workpiece to be processed is transferred out of the processing area of ​​the processing equipment; and

[0140] - The conveyor used for transfer is guided back in its return posture to receive other workpieces to be processed.

[0141] In order to process the workpiece in one of the processing pools, the corresponding conveying mechanism can be temporarily held at a position next to the corresponding processing pool, and then the rotating unit rotates the workpiece received and locked at the shaft through the fluid tank at a predetermined rotation speed.

[0142] Alternatively or supplementarily, the conveying mechanism may continue to travel in the conveying direction at a predetermined conveying or traveling speed during processing, particularly while the workpiece is rotating through the corresponding fluid tank. In this case, the conveying mechanism does not stop beside the corresponding processing tank, so that the workpiece can be rotated through the fluid tank for processing.

[0143] The method preferably has one or more of the features and / or advantages described in conjunction with the conveying device. The conveying device preferably also has one or more of the features and / or advantages described in conjunction with the method.

[0144] Other preferred features and / or advantages of the invention are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and the subject matter described below. Attached Figure Description

[0145] In the diagram:

[0146] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the conveying mechanism of the conveying device according to the present invention is shown, wherein the side away from the processing area is shown;

[0147] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The enlarged segment;

[0148] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A schematic side view of the conveyor mechanism in the middle;

[0149] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A schematic side view of the conveyor device, showing the side facing the processing area;

[0150] Figure 5 Shown in 3D Figure 4 The enlarged segment;

[0151] Figure 6 A schematic perspective view of two connected conveyor rail elements at the bottom support is shown;

[0152] Figure 7 A schematic perspective view of a bottom support having a conveyor rail element pushed onto it is shown;

[0153] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A schematic side view showing the bottom support member viewed along the conveying direction;

[0154] Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of the telescopic section between two adjacent transport track elements is shown;

[0155] Figure 10 A schematic perspective view of the bottom support component is shown;

[0156] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 A schematic top view of the bottom support component;

[0157] Figure 12 A schematic vertical sectional view of a pair consisting of a sliding bearing and an axial ball bearing is shown.

[0158] Figure 13 A schematic horizontal cross-sectional view of a pair consisting of a sliding bearing and an axial ball bearing is shown.

[0159] Figure 14 A schematic perspective view of a pair consisting of a sliding bearing and an axial ball bearing is shown;

[0160] Figure 15 A schematic perspective view of the driven conveyor unit is shown, showing one side facing the processing area;

[0161] Figure 16 Another schematic perspective view of the driven conveyor unit is shown, showing one side facing the processing area;

[0162] Figure 17 It shows Figure 15 and Figure 16 A schematic side view of the driven conveyor unit in the middle, with the viewer looking towards the driven conveyor unit along the conveying direction;

[0163] Figure 18 It shows Figure 1 A schematic side view of the conveying mechanism, with the view taken along the conveying direction;

[0164] Figure 19 It shows Figure 1 A schematic vertical sectional view;

[0165] Figure 20 A schematic perspective view of the driven conveyor unit is shown, showing the side away from the processing area;

[0166] Figure 21 A schematic perspective view of a driven conveyor unit with an open maintenance door is shown, showing the side away from the processing area.

[0167] Figure 22 A schematic perspective view of the driven conveyor unit is shown, showing one side facing the processing area;

[0168] Figure 23 A schematic vertical sectional view of the driven conveyor unit is shown;

[0169] Figure 24 A schematic perspective view of a driven conveyor unit with an open maintenance door is shown, showing the side facing away from the processing area.

[0170] Figure 25 A schematic perspective view of the driven conveyor unit is shown, showing the side facing the processing area;

[0171] Figure 26 A schematic vertical sectional view of the driven conveyor unit is shown;

[0172] Figure 27 A schematic perspective view of a flexible and replaceable hose connection is shown;

[0173] Figure 28A schematic side view of a conveyor mechanism with a rotating unit and a shaft in a processing posture is shown, with the conveyor mechanism viewed against the conveying direction;

[0174] Figure 29 A schematic perspective view of a conveying device with a conveying mechanism in a returning posture is shown; and

[0175] Figure 30 It shows Figure 29 Another schematic perspective view of the conveying device in the diagram.

[0176] In all figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are labeled with the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0177] Figures 1 to 3 The conveyor 100 shown is used to convey workpieces (not shown).

[0178] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the conveyor 100 is shown from the side away from the processing area.

[0179] To add to this, Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The enlarged segment, and Figure 3 A schematic side view is shown, which also shows the side away from the processing area.

[0180] Figures 1 to 3 The conveying device 100 includes a conveying section 102 having a conveying direction 104 and a conveying mechanism 106 that conveys workpieces along the conveying section 102.

[0181] The conveying mechanism 106 includes a driving conveying unit 108, a driven conveying unit 110, and a rotating unit 112 arranged between the two conveying units 108 and 110.

[0182] The conveying section 102 has conveying tracks 114 arranged at multiple bottom supports 116.

[0183] Combination Figures 6 to 10 A more detailed description is provided for transport section 102.

[0184] The driven conveying unit 110 is arranged in front of the driven conveying unit 108 with reference to the conveying direction 104.

[0185] However, it is also feasible to arrange the driven conveying unit 108 in front of the driven conveying unit 110 with reference to the conveying direction 104, so that the driven conveying unit 110 follows the driven conveying unit 108.

[0186] The driven conveying unit 108 and the driven conveying unit 110 are preferably configured such that they are interchangeable in terms of their respective positions.

[0187] Conveying units 108 and 110 roll on or at the travel track 114, while rotating unit 112 is not directly connected to the travel track 114.

[0188] The bottom support 116 is preferably fastened to a steel platform, which is arranged next to the processing area.

[0189] The driven conveying unit 108 includes a drive mechanism 118.

[0190] The conveying units 108, 110 and the rotating unit 112 have closable maintenance doors 120 through which access can be made to the respective internal areas and the components thereon.

[0191] Especially in Figure 3 As can be seen, each of the conveying units 108 and 110 is connected to the rotating unit 112 via both the horizontal rotating bearing 122 and the vertical rotating bearing 124.

[0192] The horizontal rotary bearing 122 is capable of rotating about the horizontal rotation axis 126.

[0193] The vertical rotating bearing 124 can rotate about the vertical rotation axis 128.

[0194] The horizontal rotation axis 126 and the vertical rotation axis 128 of the conveying units 108 and 110 are oriented perpendicularly to each other and intersect.

[0195] With the aid of two horizontal rotating bearings 122, the rotating unit 112 can rotate about a horizontal rotation axis 126, and thereby... Figures 1 to 3 The upright posture shown changes to a flipped posture.

[0196] Conversely, by rotating the horizontal axis 126 of the horizontal rotating bearing 122 of the two conveying units 108 and 110, the flipping rotating unit 112 can be transformed into an upright position.

[0197] The upright posture, also known as the machining posture, is in which the workpiece is rotated around the rotating unit 112. Figures 28 to 30 The shaft 130 shown rotates to perform machining.

[0198] The flipping posture of the rotating unit 112 is also called the return posture.

[0199] The horizontal rotary bearing 122 and the vertical rotary bearing 124 of the driven conveying unit 108 are arranged in a mirror-symmetric manner with respect to a plane perpendicular to the conveying direction 104 and the driven conveying unit 110.

[0200] The vertical rotation bearings 124 of the two conveying units 108 and 110 enable the conveying mechanism 106 to follow the curvature or tortuous direction of the conveying track 114.

[0201] exist Figure 4 A schematic side view shows Figures 1 to 3 The conveying mechanism 106, of which the side facing the processing area is now shown.

[0202] Supplement to Figure 4 , Figure 5 Shown in 3D Figure 4 The enlarged segment in the text.

[0203] from Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be seen that each conveying unit 108, 110 includes a running wheel 132, which is arranged inside the housing 134 of the conveying unit 108, 110 and rolls on the conveying track 114.

[0204] The load of the conveying mechanism 104 and the load borne by the conveying mechanism 104 are discharged to the conveying track 114 via the running wheel 132.

[0205] The running wheels 132 of the driven conveyor unit 108 are driven by a drive mechanism 118, which includes a frequency converter, an electric motor and a gearbox.

[0206] The transmission of the drive mechanism 118 can be manually and / or automatically disconnected from and / or connected to the electric motor.

[0207] from Figure 2 As can be seen, a rod 135 is provided at the drive delivery unit 108 shown, which can be used to connect or disconnect the gearbox and electric motor of the drive mechanism 118.

[0208] Due to the decoupling of the gearbox and electric motor, the relevant conveying mechanism 106 can be manually moved along the conveying track 114 if necessary.

[0209] A cooling unit 136 is preferably arranged at the drive mechanism 118, by means of which at least a portion of the drive mechanism 118 can be cooled.

[0210] The cooling unit 136 can be configured for active or passive cooling.

[0211] The drive mechanism 118 of the driven conveying unit 108 is preferably configured to be replaceable and can be easily replaced as a whole.

[0212] For example, the conveying mechanism 106 may have a driven conveying unit 108 and a driven conveying unit 110, or have two driven conveying units 108.

[0213] The conveying units 108 and 110 are preferably configured such that their positions relative to the conveying mechanism 106 can be interchanged. That is, the driving conveying unit 108 can be a conveying unit arranged in front in the conveying direction 104, while the driven conveying unit 110 is arranged in the rear.

[0214] from Figure 4 It can also be learned that the centers or rotation axes of the conveying units 108, 110 of the conveying mechanism 106 or the running wheels 132 of the conveying units 108, 110 are preferably so far apart from each other that, for example, when the rotating unit 112 is flipped or uprighted, the running wheels 132 will not face the danger of falling off the conveying track 114 in the event of a shift in the center of gravity of the conveying mechanism 106.

[0215] exist Figure 6 The image schematically shows two conveyor track elements 138 of the conveyor track 114, which are arranged at the bottom support 116 in a manner connected to each other.

[0216] The conveyor track element 138 is suspended and mounted on the bottom support 116. Therefore, the conveyor section 102 is in particular an electrically powered overhead conveyor.

[0217] The conveyor track element 138 is preferably an extruded aluminum profile.

[0218] The profile of the conveyor track element 138 is preferably a symmetrical double-T profile or a symmetrical H profile.

[0219] The web 140 of the double T-profile of the conveyor track element 138 has a perforated profile 142 so that a retaining element 144 can be arranged along the conveyor track element 138.

[0220] Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the transport track element 138 is preferably pushed onto or suspended therefrom the receiving portion 146 of the bottom support 116.

[0221] For example, the receiving part 146 may be configured as a receiving plate 148 or include such a receiving plate.

[0222] The position of the receiving part 146 can preferably be adjusted relative to the bottom support 116 of the remaining part in the conveying direction 104 and / or the gravity direction g.

[0223] Preferably, the symbol and / or code element 151 configured as QR band 150, the leaky waveguide 152, and the four power supply lines 154 are snapped into the holding element 144 of the transport track element 138, which is specifically configured as a snap-fit.

[0224] The QR belt 150 has a plurality of symbols and / or codes, preferably QR codes, arranged sequentially along the conveying direction, which may be the same or different in shape and / or color.

[0225] The QR belt 150 enables accurate and reliable detection of the position of the conveyor 106 along the conveyor path 102 or along the conveyor track 114.

[0226] Leakage waveguide 152 is used to establish short-circuit-based and wireless communication between the fixed control and / or regulation mechanism of the conveying device 100 and the conveying mechanism 106.

[0227] The four power supply lines 154, especially the four copper power supply lines, form a three-phase ground to supply 400V voltage to the transmission mechanism 106.

[0228] Two adjacent conveyor track elements 138 may be connected to each other at the bottom support 116 or arranged adjacent to each other in a manner that is at least substantially seamless, wherein each conveyor track element 138 may be suspended at the other bottom support 116.

[0229] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown in the schematic perspective view, telescopic portions 156 may be provided between some conveying track elements 138, or the connecting portion of two adjacent conveying track elements 138 may be constructed as telescopic portions 156.

[0230] The transport track elements 138 can be mechanically separated from each other by telescopic parts 156, which serve as length compensation and mechanical separation parts.

[0231] Since the conveying device 100 is preferably mounted or assembled on a steel platform and the conveying track element 138 is made of aluminum, length compensation may be required through multiple telescopic parts 156 due to the different coefficients of thermal expansion of steel and aluminum.

[0232] The telescopic section 156 is preferably arranged between the processing pools in the processing area, or arranged in front of and / or behind the processing area with reference to the conveying direction 104.

[0233] Figure 10 A schematic perspective view of the bottom support 116 is shown, and Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A schematic top view of the corresponding bottom support component.

[0234] The bottom support 116 includes a base section 158 and a track retaining section 160. The base section is preferably fastened to the bottom of a steel platform or equipment. The base section 158 is connected to the track retaining section 160 via four spaced bolts 162, which are guided in curved elongated holes 164 in the track retaining section 160.

[0235] Four curved elongated holes 164 are arranged such that the track holding section 160 of the bottom support 116 can rotate relative to its base section 158 about a vertical axis 166 or a perpendicular axis that is at least substantially parallel to the direction of gravity g.

[0236] In addition, the spacing between the track maintaining section 160 and its base section 158 can be adjusted along the vertical axis 166 by means of four spaced screws 162.

[0237] The adjustability of each bottom support 116 around and along the corresponding vertical axis 166 allows the bottom support to be adjusted or oriented such that the transport track elements 138 can be brought to the same height level and the connection or contact points of two adjacent transport track elements 138 do not have lateral offset.

[0238] Figure 12 A schematic vertical sectional view of a pair consisting of a horizontal rotary bearing 122 and a vertical rotary bearing 124 is shown, which connects the driven conveying unit 108 to the rotating unit 112.

[0239] The horizontal rotating bearing 122 is preferably configured as an axial ball bearing 168.

[0240] The vertical rotating bearing 124 is preferably configured as a sliding bearing 170.

[0241] As described above, the rotation axes of the axial ball bearing 168 and the sliding bearing 170 are oriented at least substantially perpendicular to each other and intersect.

[0242] The axial ball bearing 168 and the sliding bearing 170 of the two conveying units 108 and 110 are preferably arranged above the conveying track 114 with reference to the direction of gravity g.

[0243] The sliding bearing 170 includes a bearing shaft 172, which is guided in an upper sliding bearing section 174 and a lower sliding bearing section 176.

[0244] The bearing shaft 172 is guided through the bearing connection 178.

[0245] The axial ball bearing 168 includes at least two ball bearing receiving portions 180, which are vertically oriented and bear forces in the direction of the conveying direction 104 or the horizontal axis of rotation 126.

[0246] In addition, the bearing connection 178 is located on the ball bearing receiving part 180, which surrounds the bearing shaft 172 of the sliding bearing 170 and bears the vertical gravity.

[0247] The axial ball bearing 168 also includes a bearing shaft 172, which is arranged in the bearing connection 178 such that translational movement along the conveying direction 104 is blocked.

[0248] The other end of the bearing shaft 172 of the axial ball bearing 168 is tensioned relative to the bearing housing 181 by means of the shaft nut 182.

[0249] Supplement to Figure 12 , Figure 13 A schematic horizontal sectional view of the sliding bearing 170 and the axial ball bearing 168 between the driven conveying unit 108 and the rotating unit 112 is shown.

[0250] The sliding bearing 170, the axial ball bearing 168, the running wheel 132, and the conveying track 114 are preferably located in a common vertical plane.

[0251] The two bearing shafts 172 are secured by pins 183 to prevent twisting.

[0252] The pin 183, which can fix the bearing shaft 172 to prevent twisting, can also be used in... Figure 14 From this, we can see that Figure 14 A schematic perspective view of a pair consisting of a sliding bearing and an axial ball bearing is shown between the driven conveying unit 110 and the rotating unit 112.

[0253] The lateral guidance of the conveying mechanism 106 will be discussed below.

[0254] to this end, Figure 15 and Figure 16 Schematic perspective views of the driven conveyor unit 108 from different angles are shown, with one side facing the processing area shown. (Additionally,) Figure 17 It shows Figure 15 and Figure 16 A schematic side view of the driven conveying unit 108, which is viewed along the conveying direction 104.

[0255] The driven conveying unit 108 includes eight guide rollers 184, which are arranged in pairs and laterally opposite to each other on the conveying track 114.

[0256] The guide roller 184 rolls on the side 186 of the double T-shaped profile of the conveying track element 138.

[0257] The guide roller 184 is adjustable at least in the direction transverse to the conveying direction 104, so that the trajectory guidance of the driven conveying unit 108 can be individually adapted or optimized.

[0258] The guide rollers 184 of the driven conveying unit 110 are arranged in the same manner as the driven conveying unit 108, and can also be adjusted to adapt to the trajectory guidance.

[0259] exist Figure 18 You can see Figure 1 A schematic side view of the conveying mechanism 106, which is viewed along the conveying direction 104.

[0260] As can be seen from this side view, with reference to the horizontal direction perpendicular to the conveying direction 104, the rotating unit 112 is arranged approximately centered above the conveying track 114. However, the center of gravity of the rotating unit, together with its shaft 130 and the workpiece received thereon, does not necessarily have to be located above the conveying track 114.

[0261] like Figure 19 As shown in the schematic vertical sectional view, the rotating unit 112 also includes a drive mechanism 118, which is arranged within its housing 188.

[0262] The drive mechanism 118 of the rotating unit 112 also includes an electric motor, a gearbox and a frequency converter, which drives the shaft 130 to rotate during workpiece processing.

[0263] The following will be Figures 19 to 23 The power supply for the conveying mechanism 106 is discussed in particular.

[0264] Similar to the driven conveying unit 110 of the conveying mechanism 106 according to the invention, the driven conveying unit 108 also has a maintenance inlet in the form of a closable maintenance door 120, located on the side of the respective conveying unit 108, 110 away from the processing area.

[0265] Corresponding to the number of power supply lines 154 extending along the conveyor track 114, four current collectors 190 are accessible via the maintenance door 120 of the driven conveyor unit 108. The current collectors are preferably arranged inside the maintenance door 120 and thus turn out with the maintenance door when it is opened, thereby facilitating inspection, maintenance and / or replacement.

[0266] The current collector 190 is preferably configured as a spring-loaded finger element.

[0267] When the maintenance door 120 is closed, the current collector 190 slides on the power supply line 154 of the conveyor track 114 during the conveying or traveling of the conveyor mechanism 106 along the conveyor path 102. As a result, the driven conveyor unit 108 is supplied with a voltage of 400V.

[0268] Other components are powered or electrically connected to the current collector 190 via a flexible and replaceable hose connection 192, through which the power supply line is guided.

[0269] For example, in order to enable the maintenance door 120 to be turned open, the rotating unit 112 to be flipped or upright, the conveying units 108 and 110 to follow the conveying track 114, or the drive mechanism 118 of the driven conveying unit 108 to be easily replaced, the hose connection 192 is configured to be flexible and guided outside the components of the conveying mechanism 106.

[0270] Correspondingly, the current collector 190 is connected to the drive mechanism 118, the drive mechanism 118 is connected to the rotating unit 112, and finally the rotating unit 112 is connected to the driven conveying unit 110. Therefore, the drive mechanisms of the driven conveying unit 108 and the rotating unit 112, as well as the components of the driven conveying unit 110, which will be described below, are supplied with current.

[0271] Figures 24 to 26 The components of the driven conveying unit 110 are shown, which can be accessed via the maintenance door 120 of the conveying unit.

[0272] The driven conveying unit 110 includes an optical sensor mechanism 196 configured as a laser scanner 194, by means of which the QR tape 150 at the conveying track 114 can be read or individual symbols and / or codes can be detected, thereby enabling reliable detection and determination of the position of the conveying mechanism 106 along the conveying path 102.

[0273] Particularly preferably, the optical sensor mechanism 196 is configured as a camera.

[0274] An antenna 198 is arranged below it, which is used for short-segment-based communication with the leakage waveguide 152 of the transport track 114.

[0275] Figure 27 As additionally illustrated in a schematic perspective view, the hose connector 192 has a quick-locking element at each end 200, which engages with the corresponding receiving part 202 at the component to be connected in the delivery mechanism 106.

[0276] Figure 28 A schematic side view of a conveying mechanism 106 with shaft 130 is shown, with the conveying mechanism 106 viewed against the conveying direction 104.

[0277] The rotating unit 112 includes a shaft 130 which is rotatably supported at or rotatably connected to the rotating unit 112.

[0278] exist Figure 28 In the process, both the rotating unit 112 and the shaft 130 are in a machining posture, that is, in particular, the rotating unit 112 is upright and the axis of the shaft is oriented horizontally.

[0279] Two workpiece carrier receiving sections 204 are arranged at axis 130, which receive workpiece carriers (not shown) in the entrance area of ​​the processing area, on which workpieces to be processed are arranged.

[0280] In addition, such as Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown, shaft 130 includes a running roller 208 at its end 206 pointing away from rotating unit 112, which rolls on reverse running track 210 in a supported manner when conveying mechanism 106 returns to the entrance area of ​​the processing area in its return posture.

[0281] from Figure 29 and Figure 30 As can be seen, the workpiece carrier receiving part 204 is constructed in a V shape, wherein in particular the two legs are constructed to be mirror symmetrical with respect to a plane in which the axis of the shaft extends.

[0282] Only the locking mechanism 212 at the end of the workpiece carrier receiving section 204 is not mirror-symmetrical, so that the workpiece carrier can be locked at the workpiece carrier receiving section 204 without any problems and in the same manner when it is transferred to the processing area.

[0283] A lifting device 214 with a lifting direction may also be provided in the inlet and / or outlet area of ​​the processing area of ​​the processing equipment for lifting and / or lowering the shaft 130 of the conveying mechanism 106, or at least supporting it thereon.

[0284] The lifting device 214 can also be associated with the conveying device 100.

[0285] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0286] 100 conveyor device

[0287] 102 transport section

[0288] 104 Conveying Direction

[0289] 106 Conveying Mechanism

[0290] 108 driven conveyor unit

[0291] 110 driven conveyor unit

[0292] 112 rotating units

[0293] 114 conveyor rails

[0294] 116 Bottom Support

[0295] 118 drive mechanism

[0296] 120 retractable maintenance door

[0297] 122 Horizontal Rotary Bearing

[0298] 124 Vertical Rotation Bearing

[0299] 126 horizontal axis of rotation

[0300] 128 Vertical axis of rotation

[0301] 130 axis

[0302] 132 running wheels

[0303] Housing of 134 conveyor unit

[0304] 135 strokes

[0305] 136 cooling units

[0306] 138 conveyor track components

[0307] 140 web

[0308] 142 perforated profile

[0309] 144 Holding Element

[0310] 146 Reception Department

[0311] 148 receiving plate

[0312] 150QR belt

[0313] 151 symbols and / or code elements

[0314] 152 Leaky Waveguide

[0315] 154 power supply line

[0316] 156 telescopic section

[0317] 158 base section

[0318] 160 track maintenance section

[0319] 162 fixed-pitch screw connector

[0320] 164 curved elongated holes

[0321] 166 vertical axis

[0322] 168 axial ball bearing

[0323] 170 sliding bearing

[0324] 172 bearing shaft

[0325] 174 Upper sliding bearing section

[0326] 176 Lower sliding bearing section

[0327] 178 bearing connection part

[0328] 180 ball bearing receiving part

[0329] 181 bearing housing

[0330] 182 shaft nut

[0331] 183 sales

[0332] 184 guide rollers

[0333] Side flanges of 186 double T profile

[0334] Housing of 188 rotating unit

[0335] 190 collector

[0336] 192 Hose Connection

[0337] 194 laser scanner

[0338] 196 Optical Sensor Mechanism

[0339] 198 antenna

[0340] 200 hose connection end

[0341] 202 Reception Department

[0342] 204 Workpiece Carrier Receiving Section

[0343] The 206th axis points away from the end of the rotating unit.

[0344] 208 running rollers

[0345] 210 Reverse Running Track

[0346] 212 Locking Mechanism

[0347] 214 Lifting Device

[0348] g-gravity direction

Claims

1. Conveyor device (100) for conveying a workpiece, in particular a vehicle body, wherein the conveyor device (100) comprises: - at least one conveying section (102) having a conveying direction (104); and - one or more conveying means (106) for conveying the workpiece along at least one of the conveying sections (102).

2. The delivery device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that The conveying section (102) has at least one conveying track (114) comprising one or more conveying track elements (138).

3. The delivery device (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that One or more of the conveying track elements (138) are curved.

4. The delivery device (100) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that One or more of the conveying track elements (138) are aluminum conveying track elements having a) an extruded profile; and / or b) a double T profile, preferably a symmetrical double T profile.

5. The delivery device (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that At the conveying track (114), preferably at the web of the double T profile of the conveying track elements (138), there are arranged a) at least one leaky waveguide (152) for controlling and / or regulating a conveying means (106); and / or b) at least one symbol and / or code element (151), in particular at least one QR band (150) and / or a bar code element, for determining a position of the conveying means (106) along the conveying section (102); and / or c) at least one, preferably four, power supply lines (154), in particular copper power supply lines, for a three-phase power supply of the conveying means (106).

6. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that Each two conveying track elements (138) can be connected at least approximately seamlessly.

7. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that At least one connection of two conveying track elements (138) comprises or is configured as an expansion joint (156).

8. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that The conveying section (102) has a plurality of floor supports (116), wherein each conveying track element (138) is arranged in a suspended manner, in particular in a sectionally freely suspended manner, at at least one floor support (116).

9. The delivery device (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that Each floor support (116) can be adjusted along and / or about a vertical axis (166) for orienting the conveying track element (138).

10. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that Each conveying means (106) comprises two conveying units (108, 110), which preferably can travel along and / or at and / or on the conveying section (102), and at least one rotation unit (112) arranged between the two conveying units (108, 110).

11. The delivery device (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that The rotation unit (112) is connected with each of the conveying units (108, 110) via at least one horizontal rotational bearing (122) and at least one vertical rotational bearing (124), the rotational axis (126) of the horizontal rotational bearing being oriented horizontally and the rotational axis (128) of the vertical rotational bearing being oriented vertically, wherein the horizontal rotational axis (126) and the vertical rotational axis (128) of the rotational bearings (122, 124) of the respective conveying unit (108, 110) preferably intersect.

12. The delivery device (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that All rotary bearings of the conveying mechanism are arranged above the conveying path section.

13. The delivery device (100) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The horizontal rotary bearing (122) and the vertical rotary bearing (124) of one conveying unit (108, 110) are arranged and / or configured mirror-symmetrically with respect to a plane perpendicular to the conveying direction (104) to the horizontal rotary bearing (122) and the vertical rotary bearing (124) of another conveying unit (108, 110).

14. The conveying device (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that a) the horizontal rotary bearing (122) comprises or is configured as an axial ball bearing (168); and / or b) the vertical rotary bearing (124) comprises or is configured as a plain bearing (170).

15. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that Each conveying unit (108) comprises at least one running wheel (132) which rolls on the conveying track element (138) along the conveying path section (102).

16. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 15, characterized in that The conveying mechanism (106) comprises at least one driven conveying unit (108) and / or at least one driven conveying unit (110), the driven conveying unit having at least one drive mechanism (118), wherein it is preferably provided that at least one drive mechanism (118) is exchangeable.

17. The delivery device (100) according to claim 16, characterized in that Each drive mechanism (118) comprises at least one electric motor, at least one frequency converter and at least one transmission which can be decoupled and / or coupled to the electric motor manually and / or automatically.

18. The delivery device (100) according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that The driven conveying unit (108) comprises current collectors (190), preferably spring contact finger elements, corresponding in number to the power supply lines (154) of the conveying track (114), which come into contact, in particular slide on, the power supply lines (154) for power supply.

19. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that The driven conveying unit (110) comprises at least one optical sensor mechanism (196), preferably a camera or a laser scanner (194), for detecting one or more symbols and / or codes of the symbol and / or code elements (151) of the conveying track (114), and at least one antenna (198) for short-circuit section-based communication with the leaky waveguide (152) of the conveying track (114).

20. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that The position of the driven conveying unit (108) and the driven conveying unit (110) relative to the rotary unit (112) is exchangeable.

21. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 20, characterized in that Each conveying unit (108, 110) has at least one maintenance access, preferably a closable maintenance door (120), which is preferably arranged at the side of the conveying unit (108, 110) facing away from the conveying track (114).

22. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 21, characterized in that Each conveying unit (108, 110) comprises at least one pair, preferably four pairs, of guide rollers (184) which roll on the conveying track (114) laterally and opposite one another, wherein the guide rollers (184) can be adjusted to adapt the trajectory guidance of the respective conveying mechanism (106).

23. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 22, characterized in that The rotary unit (112) comprises a shaft (130) which is connected in a rotatable manner to the rotary unit (112) and extends in a plane which is oriented perpendicularly to the conveying direction (104).

24. The delivery device (100) according to claim 23, characterized in that The shaft (130) is transformable into at least one workpiece processing position and at least one return position together with the rotary unit (112) by a rotation of the rotary unit (112) about the axis of rotation (126) of the horizontal rotary bearing (122) of the conveying unit (108, 110).

25. The delivery device (100) according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that The shaft (130) has a running roller (208) at its end (206) which is directed away from the rotary unit (112).

26. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 23 to 25, characterized in that The conveying device (100) comprises at least one counter-running track (210) which is arranged below the conveying path (102) with reference to the direction of gravity (g) and is configured such that the running roller (208) of the conveying mechanism (106) rolls on the counter-running track in the return position of the rotary unit (112) or of the shaft (130).

27. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 23 to 26, characterized in that At least two workpiece carrier receptacles (204) are arranged at the shaft (130) which are spaced apart from one another.

28. The delivery device (100) according to claim 27, characterized in that The workpiece carrier receptacles (204) are configured to be substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to a plane in which the axis of the shaft extends.

29. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 28, characterized in that The rotary unit (112) is connected to each conveying unit (108, 110) by means of at least one flexible and replaceable hose connection (192) which is arranged outside the conveying mechanism (106) and through which an electric line for supplying power is guided, wherein it is preferably provided that the hose connection (192) has a quick-lock at at least one of its ends (200).

30. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 29, characterized in that The rotary unit (112) has at least one drive mechanism (118) comprising at least one motor, at least one frequency converter and at least one transmission, by means of which the shaft (130) is rotatable about its axis.

31. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 30, characterized in that At least one of the conveying paths (102) comprises at least one processing section and at least one return section, which is preferably arranged at least approximately parallel to the at least one processing section, and at least two turning sections which respectively connect the at least one processing section and the at least one return section to one another in an opposite manner to one another in order to configure a closed conveying path.

32. The delivery device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that At least one of the conveying paths (102) is divided into a plurality of safety zones.

33. The delivery device (100) according to claim 32, characterized in that Each safety zone is associated with at least two safety modes, wherein one safety mode is preferably an emergency stop mode and the other safety mode is a mode with reduced conveying speed.

34. Processing device for conveying and processing workpieces, in particular vehicle bodies, wherein the processing device comprises: - at least one processing region having at least one, preferably a plurality of, successively arranged processing pools which are filled with a processing fluid for workpiece processing; and - at least one conveying device for conveying the workpieces through the processing region, wherein the conveying device comprises: - at least one transport device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein at least one of the transport devices (100) is arranged at one side of at least one of the treatment zones.

35. The processing device of claim 34, wherein, A lifting device (214) with a lifting direction is provided at an entry region and / or an exit region of the treatment zone, which lifting device lifts and / or lowers the shaft (130) of the transport mechanism (106).

36. Method for transporting and treating workpieces, in particular vehicle bodies, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - transferring a workpiece to a transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the transport device (100) is arranged laterally at a treatment zone of a treatment plant, which treatment zone comprises a plurality of successively arranged treatment baths filled with a treatment fluid; - receiving the workpiece on the shaft (130) of one of a plurality of the transport mechanisms (106) of the transport device (100), the workpiece preferably being arranged on a workpiece carrier, wherein the transport mechanism (106) for receiving is in its treatment posture; - transporting the received workpiece along the transport path (102), wherein the workpiece is rotated in the treatment section of the transport path (102) by means of the rotary unit (112) of the transport mechanism (106) through the fluid slots of one or more treatment baths of the treatment plant; - transferring the treated workpiece out of the treatment zone of the treatment plant; and - guiding the transport mechanism (106) for the transfer back in its return posture to receive a further workpiece to be treated.

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