Device and method for transporting articles

Abstract

Transport device (1) for transporting articles (10) in a mass flow (11) towards at least one separating element (15) for dividing the mass flow (11) into at least two lanes (13, 14), wherein the transport device (1) is associated with at least one detection device (30) for recognizing articles (10a) in at least one separating area (17, 17*), the transport speed (va) of which is reduced compared to the transport speed (vm) of the articles (10) transported in the mass flow (11), which is coupled to a handling device (34) for positioning and / or removing articles (10a, 10b) or adjacent articles (10n) identified by the detection device (30).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a transport device with the features of claim 1 and a method for transporting articles with the features of claim 8.

[0002] When transporting items between successive processing units, particularly in the infeed area of ​​packaging machines, the items or containers are usually conveyed in a so-called mass flow and divided into individual lanes before being transferred to the packaging machine. When referring to the transport of items in a mass flow, this means the largely unordered and / or ungrouped conveying of a large number of items on a conveyor belt or similar device, where the width of the conveyor belt is limited by two lateral guide rails parallel to the direction of travel of the items. With the aforementioned division, disruptions can occur, for example, if the items or containers are not positioned next to each other as desired. Items that have fallen over or otherwise blocked the mass flow can lead to disruptions in the conveying process as well as in subsequent processing steps.For example, in beverage production and bottling plants, large numbers of filled or empty bottles and beverage containers are moved side-by-side on conveyor belts. In this process, tilted, fallen, or damaged bottles can disrupt the handling process, so such bottles or containers should be identified and removed whenever possible. Furthermore, when the mass flow is divided into lanes, incoming containers can get caught on the lane dividers and / or become stuck. This blocks the lane feed and leads to a shortage of items in that lane for the subsequent processing equipment, such as a packaging machine.

[0003] In conventional conveying systems, for example, when feeding containers to a filling plant, a light barrier and / or mechanical components such as movable flaps are used to monitor whether a container is present, missing, or has fallen over at a designated position. A disadvantage of these conventional monitoring and detection devices is that they are each designed for a specific container size and must be adapted or reconfigured when the container size changes.

[0004] US Patent 4354865 A discloses a device that automatically removes tipped-over or blocked items by generating and comparing a first and a second signal. The second signal has a predefined length, which is the length required for a normally upright item to continue its journey. If a deviation is detected, the item is removed from the flow of items.

[0005] DE 100 07 627 A1 describes a method and a device for diverting horizontal containers, in which they are detected by a sensor and removed from the incoming container stream by means of a so-called pusher. However, this is only possible if the bottles are transported one after the other in a single stream and not in a mass stream.

[0006] DE 201 10 686 U1 further discloses a device for detecting containers lying on their side on a multi-lane conveyor. This device uses sensors that are arranged approximately perpendicular to the direction of transport and detect the containers lying on their side without contact by emitting a vertically downward-directed energy beam.

[0007] The described devices do not address, in particular, why, for example, a container for the subsequent device is missing.

[0008] When splitting a mass flow into at least two separate streams using a channel plate, blockages can occur, especially if non-circular items have become twisted during transport. This can happen, for example, if the items shift during transport and one item ends up diagonally, obliquely, or even directly in front of or against the channel plate. This item—in combination with the following items and the resulting pressure—then blocks the subsequent product flow when the items are split into at least two lanes, causing a malfunction.

[0009] US Patent 5,937,995 A shows a so-called baffle arranged on both sides of the conveyor belt, which narrows the conveyor belt in the area before the articles are divided into individual streams. This allows the transported articles with a round base to be packed tightly in two rows, facilitating their sorting into the individual aisles. However, this device is not suitable for aligning twisted articles with a square base and preventing the blockage described above.

[0010] The schematic representation of the Fig. 1A illustrates the current state of the art of a transport device. 1 , at a funding facility 2 , for example, an endless conveyor 3 , items transported in the direction of transport TR 10 generally stationary and initially disorderly at a defined velocity v m in the mass flow 11to be transported. Downstream, the items are first assigned. 10 , for example in three-way streets 13 , which means that there are three articles in each of these areas. 10 They can find space side by side. From these relatively short three-lane aisles 13 Further downstream, these narrower streams of articles are further divided by means of separating elements arranged perpendicular to the transport plane, for example, aisle plates. 15 etc. in individual alleys 14 to be separated where the articles 10 each in its individual stream 12 arranged in a further processing unit 5 such as a packaging machine 6 to be supplied. The reorganization of the articles 10 in three alleys 13 and the subsequent dispersal into the narrower alleys 14 This occurs through a so-called displacement of the articles. 10First, for example, the articles 10 through metal sheets 15 so divided that three articles each 10 between two metal sheets 15 to be pushed aside. In the further course of the process, the three articles, now standing next to each other perpendicular to the transport direction TR, will then be... 10 again into further alleys 14 pushed aside, so that finally single-row article series 12 These processes can be formed. During the described displacement processes, articles can become jammed. 10a in the area of ​​the alley inlet 16 come, which means the continuous transport of the items 10 This is no longer guaranteed. This results in a shortage of items. 10 at the processing unit 5 , 6 , which can subsequently lead to machine downtime. The schematic representation of the Fig. 1 is only an exemplary implementation of the way in which articles transported in the mass flow are divided. 10 into individual alleys 14 The expert is well aware that the distribution of the mass flow 11 incoming items 10 in alleys 14 This can be done with single-row articles through varying degrees or division steps. It is also conceivable to... 10 First, for example, the items could be divided into aisles of six, then into aisles of three, and subsequently into aisles of two or one (single row). It is also conceivable to divide the incoming items directly into single-row item aisles as they arrive in the mass flow. The aisle plates 15 They can be designed as separating elements arranged largely perpendicular to the transport plane; furthermore, a funnel-shaped arrangement of the separating elements or similar is conceivable in order to achieve the desired division.

[0011] The problem described above is illustrated again in Fig. 1B is shown. In this embodiment, the three lanes taper. 13 Additionally in the transport direction TR. In this case, the items 10 in a mass flow 12 transported and placed in three lanes 13 separated. The alleys 13 They taper in the transport direction TR, since the separating elements or lane plates 13* They are not arranged parallel to each other, but rather approach each other in the transport direction TR. This is due to the narrowing of the lanes. 13 A displacement effect occurs. Furthermore, the narrowing alleys 13 by means of gas plates 15 into at least two more alleys 14 divided. Especially in the alleyways 16 Disruptions occur due to the street inflow. 16 Blocking articles 10aCurrently, this malfunction is resolved manually by a human operator. The operator is alerted to the malfunction by appropriate acoustic and visual signals. The operator first determines the type and location of the malfunction on the conveyor. In the case of a blockage or a fallen container ( 10a , 10b ) it is then manually removed and / or correctly positioned by the operator so that the following items 10 They can continue their movement in the direction of transport unhindered. However, machine operators often operate several machines simultaneously, which often means that the malfunction cannot be rectified immediately or promptly due to the operator's distance from the machine.

[0012] Another problem is that plastic containers, after blow molding, have a non-smooth surface due to the raw material. This leads to the containers sticking together during transport, for example, in the separation zone or infeed of a packaging machine. The disordered mass flow and the resulting pressure against each other prevent the containers from aligning properly or cause them to roll off one another. This results in blockages in the separation zone or infeed, for example, before a packaging machine, thus halting the desired transport. The problem of surface adhesion is particularly relevant in systems where individual machines are connected without long transport distances. This compact setup means that the plastic containers...The time between blow molding and packaging is reduced, and therefore the containers cannot acclimatize sufficiently.

[0013] One reason for this might be that the plastic of the still-warm, freshly molded items is not yet completely solid, resulting in a slight fusion of the top surface layer of adjacent items. It is also possible that the items stick together due to electrostatic forces. Another reason could be the composition of the raw material used for the plastic containers. For example, an excessively high proportion of recycled material could cause this sticking. This results in the items not rolling away from each other and / or rolling away from the railing guides when being sorted into the aisles. The combination of at least two such stuck-together items can also lead to a blockage.

[0014] A primary object of the invention is to improve the detection of disturbances in the flow of articles when a mass flow of articles is divided into streams of several articles each, or of articles transported individually in succession, in particular disturbances caused by blocking or fallen-over articles. Ideally, these disturbances should not only be detected automatically, but also subsequently rectified, so that, ideally, monitoring and / or correction by human operators can be eliminated.

[0015] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Features of advantageous further developments or embodiments of the invention are set out in the respective dependent claims.

[0016] To solve this problem, the invention proposes a transport device for conveying articles on a conveyor system. The conveyor system can, for example, comprise a circulating conveying element (such as mat chains or similar means known to those skilled in the art) or a series of several circulating conveying elements (such as several individual hinged belt chains or the like). The conveyor system essentially forms a horizontal conveying plane. The conveying plane is divided into individual lanes by means of separating elements, usually suspended from above, known as lane dividers. Thus, the conveyor system is generally a horizontal conveying system with which the articles are transported in a mass flow and separated in the conveying direction into at least two lanes by means of at least one separating element positioned perpendicular to the conveying plane. The separating elements, orIn a preferred configuration, the conveyor plates are arranged above the conveying plane and are adjustable and suspended vertically from designated support structures. The conveyor plates are therefore not in contact with the conveying medium. The conveying device, or horizontal conveying system, can, for example, transport items from a first processing unit to a second. In particular, the conveying device forms the infeed area of ​​a packaging machine and is thus located directly upstream of it, since in this case, singulation of the items into lanes is usually desired / necessary before further processing. For example, such a conveying device is preferably used to transport upright bottles from a filling system, a labeling machine, or similar equipment to a packaging machine, a packing station, or similar equipment.

[0017] As separating elements for dividing and / or singulating the articles in conveyor lanes for groups of articles consisting of several articles or in individual lanes, so-called lane plates or similar suitable means preferably serve. The end faces of the separating elements facing against the conveying direction, the area upstream of these end faces, and the surrounding area are also referred to in this context as the separation zone, since some of the processes, effects, and disturbances of interest in connection with the present invention can occur within this zone during the separation of the article mass flow. According to the present invention, the conveying device has at least one detection device for recognizing the article flow, at least in the area of ​​separation or displacement of the articles from the mass flow into lanes and / or individual lanes, i.e., in the aforementioned separation zone.When the term "data collection device" is used below, it should be noted that it always refers to at least one data collection device.

[0018] The detection device is capable of identifying, within a defined area, items that are likely to disrupt the transport and / or further processing of the conveyed items. The detection area of ​​the device is selected and dimensioned to specifically identify disruptions in the final stage of the mass flow and / or in the item distribution areas within aisles. This includes the area where items are distributed into aisles with at least two items, the area where items are distributed into individual aisles, and the initial section of each subsequent aisle.

[0019] In particular, the detection device identifies items whose transport speed is reduced compared to the transport speed of the other items in the mass flow and / or those already transported between the conveyor plates. This applies especially to items that, due to contact with the end face of one of the separating elements, block access to at least one conveyor aisle. While this effect of an item hanging from and / or resting against the end face of the separating element and thus not being conveyed further is not very frequent, it is all the more disruptive because it can largely block the adjacent aisles. These disruptive items can be relatively easily identified by the detection device compared to other items, since the transport speed of such a blocking item is approximately or equal to zero.Another recognition criterion is that no further items are transported downstream of such a stationary item due to the lane blockage, which can be detected by means of the detection device and / or another detection device.

[0020] Furthermore, it can be desirable for the detection device to recognize and identify items whose base area differs from the known base area of ​​an item transported in the mass flow. Such items may be positioned in such a way that the base area or outline of the item, as detected from above, differs from the base area or outline of a correctly positioned item. For example, such objects with a larger outline or base area could be items or bottles that have tipped over, i.e., are lying on the transport device. Depending on the detection capabilities, the selected settings and / or sensitivity, as well as the selected parameters of the downstream evaluation unit, these could also be other defective items, such as those that are unlabeled, have a loose label, or have a different diameter or base area.Depending on the settings of the detection device, a different reflection behavior due to a missing or faulty label or due to damage to an item can also be detected.

[0021] The items that disrupt transport and / or further processing are therefore usually those that at least partially and / or temporarily block access to the aisles, i.e., items whose transport speed is approximately zero. As explained above, these can also be items lying down, whose transport speed generally corresponds to that of the other items transported in the mass flow. According to another embodiment, the detection device can also detect defective items, in particular damaged, insufficiently filled, or incorrectly labeled bottles, etc.

[0022] If transport and / or further processing is disrupted by items that at least partially and / or temporarily block access to the aisles, this will also be noticeable as a shortage of items in the subsequent aisles. Therefore, the detection device may also be designed to detect a shortage of items in at least one of the aisles following the mass flow.

[0023] To ensure reliable detection of interfering items, at least one detection device is arranged above and / or to the side of a transport level of the transport device.

[0024] Furthermore, the transport system includes a handling device for moving, blocking, correctly positioning, and / or removing items that interfere with transport and / or further processing. This handling device is controllable by an evaluation unit downstream of at least one detection device. The handling device can thus optionally remove the items or immediately rectify the interference without simultaneously removing the blocking or interfering item. Depending on the detected interference, a decision can also be made as to whether the blockage can be resolved without removing the interfering item or whether only immediate removal can restore the unimpeded flow of items. Item removal can, if necessary, be combined with returning the item to a suitable point upstream in the mass flow.In particular, it is conceivable that the return occurs to a free space created downstream by the blockage. Specifically, the handling device removes, moves, or positions the blocking item, thus eliminating the obstruction. Alternatively, instead of the blocking item, an adjacent item can be grasped and repositioned or removed. It is also possible that the blocking item and at least one other adjacent item are grasped and repositioned or removed. This creates a gap in the area of ​​the aisle inlet. Due to the pressure of the following items, subsequent items and / or the blocking item roll off the aisle plate and are thus forced into the aisle, thereby also removing the blockage. "Adjacent item" does not necessarily refer to an item that is directly touching the blocking item.It could also be an item that is not directly in contact with the disturbing item, the removal or repositioning of which produces the same effect.

[0025] The at least one detection device can be arranged above the transport plane, to the side of the transport device, or in a combined arrangement above and to the side of the transport path for the items. Furthermore, the detection device includes at least one sensor for detecting items that are obstructing, blocking, or being transported incorrectly. The sensor can, for example, be an image recognition system comprising an optical sensor or a CCD camera.

[0026] According to a further embodiment, several identical and / or different sensors are arranged in the detection direction. By combining several sensors and evaluating the acquired data together, it is particularly possible to generate a three-dimensional image or three-dimensional representation.

[0027] Furthermore, the systems can also be space-capable with ultrasonic sensor(s), radar sensor(s), or one or more other suitable sensor types. Ultrasonic sensors can be used in particular to detect items or bottles unsuitable for further processing, as they can be used, for example, for continuous, non-contact level measurement. They can also be used to detect cracks in the bottle or the detected item, or other damage.

[0028] The information acquired by the sensor(s), or the information signals supplied by the sensor(s), are evaluated by an evaluation unit, typically a computer unit, and the handling device is controlled accordingly. Based on the acquired position and status information, the handling device can thus be positioned over a disruptive item, thereby resolving the obstruction. This is achieved, for example, by removing the item blocking an aisle access or an adjacent item (see above) and placing it in a storage or sorting device. Alternatively, the item can be removed and reintroduced into the mass flow, or the handling device can move the item vertically and / or horizontally on the transport level, thus removing the blockage of the aisle access.One effective control method for the handling device is to shift the item against the mass flow, thus counteracting the conveying direction. This pushes adjacent, surging items upstream, preventing them from tipping over due to the sudden removal of the item. This shifting of the obstructing, blocking, or adjacent item can also be combined with a brief delay or pause in the conveying system's feed, temporarily reducing or eliminating the back pressure caused by the surging items. A brief reversal of the conveying system can further enhance the desired effect and contribute to the smooth onward transport of the item stream being divided.In these latter variants, it is generally not necessary to remove the article, which is obstructing the end face of the gas plate, from the mass flow. Rather, in most cases it is sufficient to release the blockage by an upstream sliding movement, whereby this upstream sliding movement of the article in question can be superimposed with a small, lateral movement component directed to the side of the transport direction.

[0029] In the event of a tipped-over item, i.e., an item with a non-standard base, it is preferably removed by the handling device and placed in a storage or rejection device. Alternatively, the item can be righted by appropriate rotation and positioned further upstream in the incoming mass flow. For example, a tipped-over bottle can be righted by the handling device and reintroduced into the mass flow. In the case of a defective, damaged, or otherwise non-compliant item, it can be rejected by the handling device, as it is unsuitable for further processing by downstream equipment.

[0030] To grip and pick up items and reliably remove them from the stream of items with minimal disruption to adjacent items, the handling device has at least one suitable controllable gripping device. Optionally, the handling device can also have several different gripping devices to be able to grip multiple interfering items simultaneously and / or in immediate succession at different positions in the stream and to position or remove other items. The handling device can be a robot, such as a gantry robot. However, the handling device can also consist of a multi-axis controllable robot arm with a gripping device attached to it. Several such robots can also be present, each of which can be controlled independently.It is also possible that the gripping elements themselves are movably arranged on a guide track and can be controlled and moved by means of a gearless direct drive, for example a linear drive. According to a preferred embodiment, each gripper has its own drive.

[0031] As already mentioned, the control of the handling device can optionally be combined with and superimposed on the control of the conveyor system. According to one embodiment of the invention, the movement state of the conveyor system can be controlled depending on the signals supplied by the detection device. For example, the transport speed of the conveyor system can be reduced or stopped upon detection of an obstructing item, or the direction of movement of the conveyor system can be reversed. Reversing the direction can be used, in particular, to resolve a jam caused by an item blocking access to the aisle. When an obstructing item is removed from the flow of items, a gap is created. Due to the pressure of the following items, there is a risk that further items will fall over because of this gap, thus causing further disruptions.This can be avoided by simultaneously changing the transport speed and / or by briefly reversing the direction of the conveyor. However, the desired effect can also be achieved by pushing the interfering or blocked item against the items pushing behind it.

[0032] To prevent subsequent, backed-up items from toppling over due to back pressure when an item is removed, the item is removed in a defined sequence of movements. This sequence consists of at least two opposing motion components. First, the item to be removed is moved in a direction opposite to the conveying direction. Then, the item is moved in a direction parallel to the conveying direction, with additional vertical and / or horizontal movement occurring during this movement. The advantage of this design is that while the back pressure is briefly increased by moving the item against the conveying direction, it is gradually and evenly reduced by the subsequent movement in the conveying direction and the further vertical and / or horizontal movement.According to an alternative embodiment already described above, not the blocking item itself, but another item – for example, a neighboring item – is removed or repositioned in order to resolve the blockage.

[0033] Systems in the beverage industry are becoming increasingly smaller and more space-saving; in particular, several processing modules or processing machines are being integrated to achieve a compact arrangement. For example, the transport device according to the invention can be integrated into the downstream packaging device, and the detection device and / or the handling device can be controlled by the packaging device. For example, the packaging device detects that too few items are being supplied to achieve its set or maximum possible throughput. The packaging device then activates the detection device and / or the handling device so that it can identify and resolve the problem, ensuring that items are supplied again in the required quantity and at the required speed.

[0034] To solve the aforementioned problem, the invention further comprises a method for detecting and positioning articles from a stream of articles, wherein the articles are transported on a transport device in a mass flow and separated in the transport direction by means of at least one separating element into at least two lanes. The method comprises at least the following steps: First, articles that disrupt the article flow or further processing are detected. According to a first embodiment, articles whose transport speed is reduced compared to the transport speed of the articles transported in the mass flow are detected. In particular, these are articles that block the lane inlet and thus the singulation into the lanes. Such articles can be identified and distinguished from the other articles because their transport speed is approximately zero.Even if other following items are also slowed down or blocked in their conveying speed by the blocking item, the item causing the blockage can still be identified, since it is the foremost stationary item downstream.

[0035] The method according to the invention is also a method for detecting articles with a different base area, i.e., articles whose base area differs from the known base area of ​​an article transported in the mass flow. Since most transported articles are not cube-shaped, meaning they do not have identical base areas in different positions, fallen articles, such as bottles lying on their side, can be identified by their altered contour or base plan. Depending on the configuration of the method, defective articles, in particular damaged bottles, insufficiently filled bottles, incorrectly labeled bottles, etc., can also be detected. These are unsuitable for further processing, for example, for packaging several articles into a container, and must therefore be rejected.

[0036] According to a further embodiment, the method can detect a shortage of items in the aisles. This shortage occurs when transport and / or further processing are disrupted by items that at least partially and / or temporarily block access to the aisles. In this case, a detection device is provided that is suitable for detecting a shortage of items in at least one of the aisles downstream of the mass flow. Image recognition systems or similar devices are suitable for this purpose.

[0037] The described blocking, fallen over, or defective items are first identified by a detection device. The collected data is evaluated, and a handling device is controlled based on these results to rectify the malfunction. This is achieved, in particular, by removing the interfering and / or an adjacent item from the mass flow or by changing the position of the interfering and / or an adjacent item, as already described in detail in connection with the transport device.

[0038] Furthermore, the movement of the conveyor, in particular its transport or operating speed and / or transport direction, can be controlled based on the data acquired by the detection device. If interfering items are identified, the conveyor is slowed down, stopped, or even its transport direction is reversed. A change of direction may be sufficient to clear a blockage in an aisle. Optionally, during the altered movement of the conveyor, the handling device shifts the interfering item or an adjacent item, removes it from the flow of items, or repositions the picked-up item on the conveyor belt. After the obstruction is cleared, the conveyor resumes its normal transport or operating speed.

[0039] The detection device determines, in particular, the transport speed of the items being conveyed on the conveyor and compares it with the known speed of the conveyor. This allows items with reduced speed to be identified, especially those blocking access to the aisles. Optionally, in addition to measuring the transport speed, the detection device can also detect the footprint of items being conveyed and determine the deviation from the defined / known footprint of correctly positioned items. This makes it possible, in particular, to distinguish between upright and horizontal bottles, etc. Furthermore, the detection device can be configured to detect a shortage of items being conveyed in the aisles, as this also indicates that the aisle feed is blocked by incorrectly positioned items.The data obtained by the recording device is then evaluated by an evaluation unit, which controls the handling device accordingly so that it removes the fault.

[0040] Preferably, the interfering items are grasped using a gripping device, removed from the product flow, and placed in a storage or sorting device. Alternatively, the interfering items are moved into the correct position by the handling device on the conveyor. In particular, items blocking the aisle inlet can be positioned centrally to the aisle inlet by shifting them on the transport plane perpendicular to the direction of transport. Furthermore, it is possible to remove the interfering item or an adjacent item from the product flow and, if necessary, to position it correctly by rotating it or similar means. In addition, fallen items can be righted and / or transported against the direction of transport and reintroduced into the mass flow on the conveyor.

[0041] It should be mentioned here that the transport device according to the invention, as well as the inventive method for detecting and positioning articles, can be seen in close connection with an infeed area of ​​a packaging machine. The aforementioned division of a mass flow by displacement into several lanes can, in particular, form the infeed area of ​​a packaging machine, where the articles conveyed in lanes are subjected to a further processing stage, e.g., conveying or transferring the articles into prepared packaging units or grouping them into container units, or the like.

[0042] The following exemplary embodiments of the invention and its advantages will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The relative sizes of the individual elements in the figures do not always correspond to the actual relative sizes, as some shapes are simplified and others are enlarged for better illustration.

[0043] Fig. Figure 1 shows the conventionally known state of the art (see description above).

[0044] Fig. 2 to Fig. 5 shows how to remove a blocking article.

[0045] Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows how to remove a fallen-over item.

[0046] Fig. 8 to Fig. 10 show how to remove a faulty item.

[0047] Identical reference numerals are used for identical or equivalently functioning elements of the invention. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, only those reference numerals necessary for describing the respective figure are shown in the individual figures. The illustrated embodiments merely represent examples of how the device or method according to the invention may be configured and do not constitute an exhaustive limitation.

[0048] The schematic representations of Fig. 2 to Fig. 5 each show a transport device according to the invention. 20 , in which a large number of articles 10 , for example bottles, on a conveyor system 2 , for example, an endless conveyor 3 in a mass flow 11 in the transport direction TR to a division area or separation area 17 and 17* to be transported where a division of the items10 by means of gas plates 15 first in three alleys 13 and then into individual lanes 14 This is done. The division of the articles 10 in three alleys 13 and then into individual lanes 14 This is only an example. Alternatively, an initial division into groups of four, groups of two, etc., is also possible. The number of items 10 The location of the flow in an alley is irrelevant to the invention. What is essential is the division of the mass flow. 11 in alleys 14 Disruptions can occur due to the displacement principle.

[0049] The transport device 20 Is there a detection device in this area? 30 for identifying disruptive and / or blocking items 10 assigned, which have a detection or capture area 31 encompasses. Within the detection or capture area. 31In particular, disturbances in the end range of the mass flow will be affected. 11 and in the division areas 17 , 17* The article was detected in alleys, whereby the detection or capture area 31 both the area of ​​division 17* in three alleys 13 as well as the division area 17 in individual alleys 14 as well as a section of each of the following three-way or single-way streets 13 , 14 includes.

[0050] The illustrated embodiment is an access point to the individual lanes. 14 blocking article 10a The detection device 30 It has suitable sensors that must be able to detect a blockage of the lane access in the separation area. 17 through the article 10a to recognize, send a corresponding signal to the evaluation unit 32to deliver, which in turn, based on the evaluated and processed information, will provide a handling device 34 for the blocking article 10a controls. For example, the sensors can detect that the blocking bottle 10a no longer involved with the funding institution 2 , 3 with movement, from which a corresponding signal is generated. Or the detection device. 30 It has sensors, e.g., optical sensors, that are able to detect that in individual alleys 14 no bottles 10 be transported. Alternatively, sensors, especially image processing systems, can be used to detect that there are [items] in the alleys. 14 a shortage of items transported further 10 exists, so that error-free further processing can no longer be guaranteed.

[0051] As a handling device 34 In particular, a robot can 36for example, a portal robot or an articulated robot that can move around several axes, or similar, with a gripping device, may be used. 38 , in particular with a bottle gripper, a packing tulip or similar. The handling device 34 The exact position of the object blocked by the article is determined. 10a caused blockage and is moved to this position where it grasps and removes the interfering item, as can be seen from the Fig. 3 to Fig. 5 is recognizable. Furthermore, the handling device 34 be equipped with an additional detection device (not shown) to grasp the blocking item 10a to accurately identify the object and thus ensure a secure grip. Normally, an optical detection device is used for such an additional detection device, for example, to correctly grip and right a container lying on its side.

[0052] The blocking article 10a is from the handling device 34 grabbed and removed. It is conceivable that the article 10a after its removal from the article flow or mass flow 11 into an article storage 40 , for example on a separate storage or collection table 42 to be handed in (see below). Fig. 4). According to the Fig. In the embodiment shown in section 5, the discarded article 10a however, also through the handling device 34 Transported against the direction of transport TR and at another suitable location on the conveyor system 2 be reintroduced so that it can rejoin the mass flow 11 is fed in and in the direction of the alleys 13 , 14 is transported.

[0053] Alternatively, instead of the blocking article, 10a an article adjacent to this one 10nthrough the handling device 34 They can be grasped, removed, or positioned. This creates an issue in the area of ​​the alley inlet. 16 a gap. Due to the pressure of the subsequent articles 10 The blocking article will 10a on the alley sheet metal 15 rolled out and thus into the single alley 14 The blockage is then removed. It is also conceivable that not only the blocking item or items adjacent to the blocking item are picked, removed, or positioned. It is quite possible that several items are picked, removed, or positioned to resolve the blockage and thus restore the desired transport of the items.

[0054] In the Fig. 2 to Fig. 5 is the blockage caused by an article 10a in the separation area 17 of the alley inlet 16 to the individual lanes 14as shown. However, it is also quite conceivable that the blockage already exists in the separation zone. 17* of the alleyway leading to the three alleys 13 takes place.

[0055] The Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 illustrates a further aspect of the invention by means of an exemplary embodiment, similar to the one described above. Fig. 2 to Fig. 5. This version provides for the detection and removal of a fallen item. 10b , especially a fallen bottle. Also such an item, which does not directly affect the distribution of the mass flow. 11 disabled, can be caused by the transport device 20 assigned detection device 30 detected and connected to the handling device 34 be removed or re-erected. The detection device 30For this purpose, it has suitable sensors and signal processing, which, using image recognition systems or similar, determine the altered contour of the tipped-over bottle. 10b recognizes this information and outputs it via an evaluation unit. 32 to the handling device 34 Next. The handling device 34 features a special gripping device 39 for overturned bottles.

[0056] The fallen article 10b can be handled by the handling device 34 It can be grasped and removed or set up. It is conceivable that the article 10b after its removal into an article store 40 , for example, on a separate storage or collection table 42 to hand in, or the overturned item 10b to position correctly, for example to stand upright, and at another suitable location on the conveyor system 2to be used again. The gripping device is designed for this purpose. 39 suitable means 50 for rotating and positioning the items 10b on (cf.) Fig. 7).

[0057] The Fig. 8 to Fig. 10 illustrates, using a further example, the optional disposal of a defective item. 10c This could be, for example, an incompletely filled bottle, a bottle with a faulty label or print, etc., which must be rejected because it is unsuitable for further processing. The defective item 10c is by the detection device 30 , which also has suitable sensors for this purpose, is detected and by the handling device 34 grabbed and taken to a disposal container 44 transported and stored there. This prevents items identified as defective from being transported. 10cfurther processing equipment (not shown) is used for further processing, for example labeling or assembling and packaging containers, etc. Provided the detection device 30 Given the necessary sensitivity, a significant reduction in the error rate can be achieved with the help of such article recognition and the associated handling device.

[0058] The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. However, it is conceivable to a person skilled in the art that modifications or changes to the invention can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the following claims. Reference symbol list 1 Transport device 2 Support facility 3 continuous conveyors 5 further processing unit 6 packaging machines 10 items 10a Blocking Article 10b Horizontal article 10c Defective item 11 Mass flow 12 single currents 13 Dreiergasse 14th Lane, single lane 15 alley sheet metal 16 alleyways 17 Separation area, division area 17* Separation area, division area 20 Transport device 30 Detection device 31 Optical detection / detection range 32 evaluation units 34 Handling device 36 robots 38 Gripping device 39 Gripping device 40 item storage 42 Storage table 44 sorting containers 50 means for rotation and positioning GF Base area of ​​a correctly positioned (standing) article GF b Base area of ​​an incorrectly positioned (lying) article v aTransport speed of a blocking item v F Transport speed of the conveyor system v m Transport speed of the items in the mass flow QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0059] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0060] US 4354865 A

[0004] DE 10007627 A1

[0005] DE 20110686 U1

[0006] US 5937995 A

[0009]

Claims

[1] Transport device ( 1 ) for transporting items ( 10 ) in a mass flow ( 11 ) in the direction of at least one separating element ( 15 ) for the division of the mass flow ( 11 ) in at least two alleys ( 13 , 14 ), wherein the transport device ( 1 ) at least in a separation area ( 17 , 17* ) at least one detection device ( 30 ) for the recognition of articles ( 10a ), whose transport speed (v a ) compared to the transport speed (v m ) in the mass flow ( 11 ) transported item( 10 ) is reduced and / or for the detection of items ( 10b ), whose floor area (GF b ) of a known base area (GF) of a mass flow ( 11 ) transported item ( 10 ) differs and / or for the detection of a shortage of items in at least one aisle ( 13 ,14 ) is assigned, which is equipped with a handling device ( 34 ) for positioning and / or removing objects by the detection device ( 30 ) identified articles ( 10a , 10b ) or adjacent articles ( 10n ) is coupled. [2] Transport device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one detection device ( 30 ) above and / or to the side of a transport plane of the transport device ( 1 ) is arranged. [3] Transport device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detection device ( 30 ) at least one sensor for detecting items ( 10a ) with reduced transport speed (v a ) and / or for the identification of articles ( 10b ), whose floor area (GF b ) of the known base area (GF) of a mass flow ( 11 ) transported item ( 10) differs and / or for the detection of a shortage of items in at least one aisle ( 13 , 14 ) includes. [4] Transport device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the handling device ( 34 ) Means for grasping and / or moving articles ( 10 , 10a , 10n ) with reduced transport speed (v a ) on the transport plane opposite or largely perpendicular to the transport direction (TR). [5] Transport device according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the handling device ( 34 ) at least one gripping device ( 38 , 39 ) for the articles ( 10a ) with reduced transport speed (v a ) and / or for the articles ( 10b ), whose floor area (GF b ) of the known base area (GF) of a mass flow ( 11 ) transported item ( 10) differs and / or from adjacent articles ( 10n ) exhibits. [6] Transport device according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the handling device ( 34 ) is formed by a robot, in particular by a portal robot. [7] Transport device according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the detection device ( 30 ) with an evaluation unit ( 32 ) for controlling and / or influencing the movement state of the conveying device ( 2 , 3 ) is coupled. [8] Methods for detecting and positioning articles ( 10 ), which are mounted on a transport device ( 1 ) in a mass flow ( 11 ) transported and in the direction of transport (TR) by means of at least one separating element ( 15 ) in at least two alleys ( 13 , 14 ) be separated, including at least the following steps: • Recognition of articles (10a ) whose transport speed (v a ) compared to the transport speed (v m ) in the mass flow ( 11 ) transported item( 10 ) is reduced by a detection device ( 30 ) and / or • Recognition of articles ( 10b ) whose floor area (GF b ) of the known base area (GF) of a mass flow ( 11 ) transported item ( 10 ) deviates due to a detection device ( 30 ) and / or • Identifying a shortage of items ( 10 ) in at least one alley ( 13 , 14 ) by a detection device ( 30 ), • Evaluation of the collected data, • Control of a handling device ( 34 ) for positioning and / or removing the objects using the detection device ( 30 ) identified article ( 10a , 10b ) or adjacent article (10n ), • Removal of these items ( 10a , 10b , 10n ) from the mass flow ( 11 ) or • Change in the location and / or position of these items ( 10a , 10b , 10n ). [9] Method according to claim 8, wherein the transport speed (v F ) a funding institution ( 2 , 3 ) when recognizing an article ( 10a ) with reduced transport speed (v a ) and / or when recognizing an article ( 10b ), whose floor area (GF b ) of the known base area (GF) of a mass flow ( 11 ) transported item ( 10 ) differs, and / or upon detection of a shortage of items ( 10 ) in at least one subsequent alley ( 13 , 14 ) by the detection device ( 30 ) is controlled and / or modified. [10] Method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the transport speed (v F ) the funding institution ( 2 , 3 ) when recognizing an article ( 10a ) with reduced transport speed (v a ) and / or when recognizing an article ( 10b ), whose floor area (GF b ) of the known base area (GF) of a mass flow ( 11 ) transported item ( 10 ) differs, and / or upon detection of a shortage of items ( 10 ) in at least one subsequent alley ( 13 , 14 ) is reduced, so that the movement of the conveying device ( 2 , 3 ) is slowed down or stopped, or a change of direction occurs, and the movement of the conveying device ( 2 , 3 ) after the fault has been rectified, the transport speed returns to normal (v F ) is recorded. [11] Method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the detection device ( 30 ) the transport speed (v m , v a ) from on the support facility ( 2 , 3 ) transported items ( 10 , 10a ) and / or the floor area (GF, GF b ) the article ( 10 , 10a , 10b ) and / or the shortage of items ( 10 ) in at least one subsequent alley ( 13 , 14 ) recorded and the deviation from the known defined transport speed (v m , v F ) and / or to the known defined base area (GF, GF) a ) and / or the blocking article ( 10a ) determined and the handling device ( 34 ) accordingly. [12] Method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the article ( 10a ) with reduced transport speed (v a ) and / or the article (10b ), whose floor area (GF b ) of the known base area (GF) of a mass flow ( 11 ) transported item ( 10 ) deviates and / or the alley inlet ( 16 ) blocking article ( 10a ) and / or an adjacent article ( 10n ), taken from the article stream and stored in a storage device ( 40 , 42 ) or a sorting device ( 44 ) is discontinued. [13] Method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the article ( 10a ) with reduced transport speed (v a ) and / or the article ( 10b ), whose floor area (GF b ) of the known base area (GF) of a mass flow ( 11 ) transported item ( 10 ) deviates and / or the alley inlet ( 16 ) blocking article ( 10a ) and / or an adjacent article ( 10n), removed from the flow of articles and / or placed in the correct position and / or transported against the direction of transport (TR) and placed back on the conveyor system ( 2 , 3 ) into the mass flow ( 12 ) is used. [14] A method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein an article ( 10a ) and / or an adjacent article ( 10n ) with reduced transport speed (v a ) by the handling device ( 34 ) vertically and / or horizontally to the transport direction (TR) on the transport plane of the conveying device ( 2 , 3 ) is moved to include the article ( 10a , 10n ) largely central to the alleyway ( 16 ) the alley ( 13 , 14 to order.