Transport system for transporting and / or positioning objects along a transport route, as well as transport bodies for such a transport system

Abstract

Transport system (1) for transporting and / or positioning objects along a transport path (2), wherein the transport system (1) comprises at least one rotatable transport body (10, 10a, 10b) with an inlet (15) and an outlet (16) and with at least one rising transport curve (12) bounded by at least one pair of curve flanks, which has a positive transport curve slope (S) in the linear transport direction and into which at least one driver (30, 31) of a carrier (3) movable along the transport path (2) can engage or engages, wherein the at least one transport body (10, 10a, 10b) has at least one inlet area (11) for the at least one driver (30, 31) to enter the transport curve (12), characterized in that only one of the curve flanks (120) of the pair of curve flanks is provided in the inlet area (11).wherein this first curve flank (120) rises from the entry (15) of the transport body (10, 10a, 10b) with a positive slope (S1) and transitions with an offset section (122) into the transport curve path (12) bounded by both curve flanks (120, 121) and rising with the positive transport curve slope (S), wherein the transport curve path (12) is constantly positive in the linear transport direction.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a transport system for transporting and / or positioning objects along a transport path, wherein the transport system comprises at least one rotatable transport body with at least one transport curved track bounded by at least one pair of curved flanks, which, viewed in the linear transport direction, has at least one continuous positive slope and into which at least one driver of a carrier movable along the transport path can engage or engages, wherein the at least one transport body has at least one entry area for the at least one driver to enter the transport curved track.It further relates to a transport body for a transport system, wherein the transport body has an incoming and an outgoing section, at least one rising transport curve path bounded by at least one pair of curve flanks with at least one positive transport curve path gradient and at least one incoming section for at least one driver of a carrier of the transport system entering the transport curve path.

[0002] Transport systems for moving objects along a transport path, as well as transport bodies as components of such a transport system, are known in the prior art. The transport bodies can be rotatable or stationary. Movable carriers, which in particular have roller-shaped drivers, can be moved along such a transport path by means of the transport system in order to pick up the objects to be transported and, for example, move them to individual stations of a production plant. The roller-shaped drivers engage in a curved transport track that extends along each transport body and winds helically around it. Such transport systems therefore play a central role in the automation of production lines for the manufacture of a wide variety of products. Different types of transport systems for different applications are known in the prior art.The individual transport bodies can be fixed, for example, on or between conveyor chains, conveyor belts, conveyor rods, conveyor systems, etc., and arranged together with them around a transport route.

[0003] Furthermore, it is known from DE 10 2014 107 654 A1 to provide a drive unit for driving a carrier moving along a transport track with a cam drum that can be driven to a rotary motion. A drive groove is provided for the engagement of a driver arranged on the carrier with the cam drum. This cam drum comprises a first drum section and a separate second drum section, both of which can be driven independently. A control device, also provided, for controlling the drive of the carrier is designed such that it can accelerate the carrier after it has been taken over by a separate drive unit using the first drum section and then transfer the accelerated carrier to the second drum section. Sensors are also provided on the drive units to detect the speeds and the respective instantaneous rotational position of the drum sections.The drum cam is positioned between a transfer section and a process section. The control unit rotates the second drum section at a speed adapted to the process section. For transferring the carrier from the respective transfer section, the cam drum has a first drum section that initially remains stationary. As soon as the driver attached to the carrier moves from a straight section in the inlet-side insertion area of ​​the drum section, extending parallel to a transport direction of the carriage and / or parallel to a rotation axis of the cam drum, into the helical section of the drum section, the first drum section is driven into a rotary motion.This is accelerated until the rotational speed of the first drum section equals the rotational speed of the second drum section, and an output area of ​​the helical section of the first drum section and an input area of ​​the drum section merge into one another. Thus, the first and second drum sections are synchronized to enable a smooth transfer of the carrier's driver from the first drum section to the second drum section.

[0004] EP 0 424 562 A1 discloses two conveyor belts for pallets and a so-called roller. Each pallet has a projecting guide roller on its underside, which fits into a guide groove in the roller. The roller is arranged centrally between the conveyor belts. In the roller's stationary position, the guide groove has different groove sections, open on the inside via an axial inlet section (positioning position for the next pallet) and an axial outlet section. In the transport direction, the two groove sections each form a stop that secures the pallet in the processing position and in the positioning position.

[0005] From DE 44 45 748 A1, a pallet locking system is known in which rollers with a guide groove are initially present parallel to the conveying direction of a conveyor track. A guide element on the respective pallets can engage in this groove and interact with it. The guide groove of each roller has radially extending groove sections (i.e., perpendicular to the axis of rotation) for locking at both ends, and thus also in the entry area, and helically extending groove sections between them for transport. The roller's rotational speed is controlled by a control device via a step-shift transmission.

[0006] Especially the insertion of a driver into a transport curve that is rotating due to the rotation of the transport body and has a positive upward slope in the linear transport direction, or even when stationary, proves difficult depending on the design of the entry into the transport curve. In contrast to the prior art, with a groove area in the entry running parallel to the axis of rotation for threading according to DE 10 2014 107 654 A1 or with a groove area in the entry running perpendicular to the axis of rotation for threading according to EP 0 424 562 A1 or according to DE 44 45 748 A1, the contact point of the driver in the entry area of ​​the transport body is always located on a groove surface or groove flank that runs obliquely with respect to the linear transport direction.When the rotating transport body starts its rotation quickly, and thus begins its journey along the curved track, the inclined groove flank moves away from the carrier's driver, which, due to inertia, remains stationary or at least slows down. This occurs before the second groove flank, approaching the driver from above in the direction of rotation, reaches the driver. During this initial phase of the driver's movement, the beginning of the second groove flank strikes the driver from above. Subsequently, the driver is abruptly slammed into the first groove flank of the curved track, which is advancing in the direction of travel. This results in a very sudden, jerky, and wear-prone movement of the carrier, to which the driver is attached, which is moved along the transport track by the transport system.The adverse movement sequence is directly transferred to the object located on the carrier and can thus lead to damage to the object and cause the object to move on the carrier, which can ultimately result in downtime and output losses in a production plant.

[0007] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a transport system for transporting and / or positioning objects along a transport path, wherein the transport system comprises at least one rotatable transport body with an incoming and an outgoing section and with at least one transport curve track bounded by at least one pair of curve flanks with a positive gradient in the linear transport direction, wherein at least one driver of a carrier movable along the transport path can engage or engages in the transport curve track, as well as providing a transport body for such a transport system in which a smoother, jerk-free and wear-optimized movement of the movable carrier to which the drivers are attached is enabled.

[0008] The problem is solved for a transport system according to the preamble of claim 1 by providing only one of the curve flanks of the pair of curve flanks in the entry area, wherein this first curve flank rises with a positive slope from the entry of the transport body and transitions with an offset section into the transport curve track, which is bounded by both curve flanks and rises with the positive slope of the transport curve track.For a transport body according to the preamble of claim 10, the problem is solved by providing that, in the entry area of ​​the transport body, a first curve flank is leading relative to the second curve flank of the pair of curve flanks, wherein only the leading first curve flank of the pair of curve flanks is provided in the entry area, and wherein this first curve flank rises with a positive slope from the point where the transport body enters the area and transitions with an offset section into the transport curve path, which is bounded by both curve flanks and rises with the positive slope of the transport curve path. Further developments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

[0009] This creates a transport system for moving and / or positioning objects along a transport path, comprising one or more transport bodies, each equipped with at least one curved track. The curved track is bounded at its edges by two curve flanks, which together are referred to below as a pair of curve flanks. Viewed in the linear direction of transport, the curved track has a continuous positive slope to allow the linear movement of carriers, such as roller-shaped carriers, that enter the curved track at the point where the transport body enters it. A carrier is understood to be any type of device for supporting, carrying, and transporting various objects, such as a pallet, a sled, a cart, a shuttle, etc.To move a carrier along the transport track using the transport system, the carrier has at least one driver. If, for example, two drivers are provided, they are usually spaced apart on the carrier and thus enter the transport track of the transport body one after the other, moving linearly along its track in the direction of transport by the rotation of the transport body. At the end of the transport body's path, the carrier's drivers then exit the track and are either pulled into the entry area of ​​an adjacent transport body, or the carrier with its drivers continues moving along the transport track in another way.

[0010] In the entry area of ​​the transport body, only one of the two curve flanks of the curve pair of the transport body's cam track is present. This first curve flank thus leads the second curve flank in the transport direction of the carrier along the transport track or the transport body itself. In order to shift the first contact area of ​​the respective carrier with the cam track further into the transport body, or as far into the transport body as possible, in order to create a larger entry area and thus more space for the entry and threading of the respective carrier into the cam track, this first leading curve flank of the cam pair rises with a positive slope from the point where the transport body enters, transitions into the offset section, and subsequently merges into the cam track, which is bounded by both curve flanks and rises with a positive cam track slope.The offset section shifts the first curve flank towards the point where the transport body enters the track. The first curve flank can rise with the positive slope of the transport curve both before and after the offset section; therefore, the positive slope can correspond to the positive slope of the transport curve. Furthermore, it is possible that the first curve flank rises with a positive slope before the offset section that differs from the positive slope of the transport curve. Thus, the positive slope with which the first curve flank rises from the point where the transport body enters the track is not equal to the positive slope of the ascending transport curve. The offset section can have an infinite slope, a negative slope, or at least a slope that exceeds the positive slope of the transport curve.The latter is, in particular, a comparatively steep incline, greater than the positive slope of the transport curve track and less than infinity. The respective driver encounters this offset section after entering the entry area. If necessary, the driver may initially run onto the rising first curve flank and follow it to the offset section. Since the second, lagging curve flank of the pair of curve flanks is not yet positioned in the area of ​​this offset section of the first leading curve flank, a clearance is created for the respective driver to enter and run against the offset section. As the transport body continues to rotate, the second, lagging curve flank of the transport curve track tangentially engages the driver laterally, which moves into the transport curve track after leaving the offset section of the first leading curve flank.The first curve flank, through the provision of the offset section, guides the driver to the second curve flank or the transport track, thereby threading the driver into the transport track. When the second curve flank tangentially engages the driver, it is no longer subjected to a jolt, unlike in known solutions. Since the respective driver is held in place by the offset section of the first leading curve flank of the curve flank pair and, due to the steep gradient of the offset section, is not yet moved in the transport direction, the driver can smoothly enter the transport track, between the two curve flanks, thus preventing a jarring movement. This ensures smooth, jerk-free, and wear-optimized movement of the movable carrier, to which at least one driver is attached, along the transport body.the transport system, which includes at least one such transport body.

[0011] Advantageously, the second flank of the curve pair, i.e., the trailing flank, begins with the positive slope of the transport curve at the level of a transition zone of the first flank from the offset section into the transport curve path, which ascends with the positive slope. This transition zone can be either a direct transition from the slope of the offset section of the first flank to the positive slope of the transport curve, or it can be a long, straight section, a traverse, or a curved path. The second flank of the curve pair can begin, originate, or start either in this transition zone or, depending on its length, at its end, i.e., in the area where the first flank transitions into the positive slope of the transport curve.Both curve flanks, the first curve flank and the second curve flank, of the curve flank pair form the transport curve path with the positive transport curve slope from the moment the second curve flank of the curve flank pair, which lags behind the first curve flank, is added, thus running at least essentially parallel to each other, whereby the respective carrier of the support is carried along between the two curve flanks of the curve flank pair that determine the transport curve path.

[0012] Both the inlet area and the curved transport track can be cost-effectively milled into the respective transport body as grooves. The curved transport track can thus be designed as at least one groove or as a groove with two curved flanks of the curved flank pair. Providing a groove proves to be a simple and effective way for the engagement of the carrier's drivers for transporting objects along the transport system or a transport route. Instead of a groove, raised areas could also be provided on the transport body, shaped like a track, to form the curved transport track with the flanking, limiting, and defining curved flanks of the curved flank pair. Such curved tracks, bounded at the edges by ribs or beads, are also referred to as rib or bead curves.The transport curve path of the transport body can accordingly be designed as a groove curve and / or rib curve and / or bead curve or in the manner of a groove with two curve flanks of the curve flank pair.

[0013] The positive slope of the transport curve, which is consistently positive in the linear transport direction, can be constant, at least in sections. In particular, it is possible to either provide a constant positive slope for the transport curve when viewed in the linear transport direction, or a positive slope that varies along the length of the transport body. By changing the slope of the transport curve, the movement of the carriers, which move along the transport curve of the transport body in the transport direction, can be determined and precisely modified. This is done to adapt to the desired movements of the objects being moved via the transport system to and at individual production stations, for example, within a production plant, or between them.

[0014] The transport curve of the transport body can be designed, for example, as a cylindrical or drum curve, i.e., rectangular in cross-section, and / or a globoid curve, i.e., trapezoidal in cross-section. Furthermore, hybrid forms are of course also possible.

[0015] A continuous transport system can comprise at least one transport body and at least one transfer section, which may be connectable or linked together. The at least one transfer section and / or the transport bodies may be provided with or without their own drive unit. The at least two transport bodies may, in particular, be or be provided as a single module with only one drive unit. For example, conveyor belts, conveyor chains, conveyor rods, or other elements forming a transfer system may be provided, with or without an additional drive unit, and which are deflected around at least two reversal points in order to form the continuous transport system. If only one transport body is provided, the transfer section is connected to the incoming transport body on the one hand and the outgoing transport body on the other.If more than one transport body is provided, transfer sections can be included between the at least two transport bodies. By providing at least one transport body and at least one transfer section, a segmentation or modular design of the transport system is achieved, allowing for a high degree of variability in its configuration and thus a flexible combination of transport bodies and transfer sections to create a transport route suitable for a given application.

[0016] The entry area of ​​the transport body serves to guide the respective carriers into the transport curve of the transport body, which has at least one positive slope. By providing the offset section of the first curve flank in the entry area, the respective carrier of a transporting carrier can be optimally directed into the transport curve of the transport body, thus eliminating the need for further pre-positioning measures of the carrier, as is the case with prior art solutions.If at least two drivers are rigidly connected to the carrier at a distance from each other, and these at least two drivers are intended to follow a path of movement, namely the transport curve of the respective transport body, the special design of the entry area allows each driver to be easily drawn into or picked up by the transport curve, even when the transport body is rotating and thus moving continuously, without the risk of jamming or even breakage. This risk can occur, especially with two non-parallel sections of the transport curve or when the drivers attempt to engage with two adjacent transport bodies. The respective driver, which, for example,which may be designed as a roller, attaches itself to the first curve flank, which rises with a positive slope up to the offset section, up to the offset section, which has a significantly higher slope compared to the slope of the transport curve track, in particular a slope of infinity, or even a negative slope, and then, after the addition of the second curve flank of the curve flank pair, follows the course of the transport curve track with its positive transport curve track slope.

[0017] By initially rising the first curve flank with a positive gradient, and then offsetting the offset section with a very large gradient, particularly one of infinity (where this offset section of the first curve flank extends at an angle of approximately 90° to the longitudinal axis of the transport body), or even with a negative gradient, the driver is continuously fed along the first curve flank of the pair of curve flanks of the transport curve track, similar to a funnel, unlike the prior art. This ensures that the respective driver is still in contact with the first curve flank before the second curve flank engages, thus reliably preventing unwanted impact stress on the driver from the second curve flank or the section of the transport body encompassing it.As soon as the driver reaches the offset section of the first cam flank, the second cam flank, which engages the driver tangentially as the transport body continues to move or rotate, prevents it from being unintentionally pushed out of the entry area or deflecting inwards. Instead, it is reliably guided into the transport cam track. This allows for a higher rotational speed of the transport body without the risk of damaging the driver or, in particular, the second cam flank of the cam flank pair.This is made possible in particular by the fact that in the inlet area, a transport curve track with a gradient of zero is not provided, but rather the second curve flank, which extends from the offset section with the positive transport curve track gradient just like the first curve flank, is tangentially attached to the outside of the driver and rises parallel to the first curve flank with the desired course of the positive transport curve track gradient, so that the driver moves along the positively rising transport curve track.

[0018] Due to the special design of the infeed section of the transport body, it is not necessary to synchronize a feed unit of a carrier with the transport body itself via a fixed coupling or path control, particularly in the form of a master-slave synchronization control system. Accordingly, a significantly more cost-effective transport system for the rapid transport and positioning of objects along a transport path can be created, using at least one rotatable transport body. The ease with which at least one driver can be integrated into the transport body's curved track makes it possible to position objects on carriers—which engage with the transport body's curved tracks via the drivers—with repeatable accuracy at production stations, etc., along a transport path.

[0019] Advantageously, at least two transport bodies can be arranged adjacent to each other and coupled together along the transport path at a predetermined or specified distance, wherein the respective transport curve of the transport bodies is interrupted at the coupling point(s) and at least one carrier is provided with at least two drivers, so that at any given time at least one driver can be arranged or is located in one of the transport curves with a positive gradient. Furthermore, the distance between the adjacent and coupled transport bodies is advantageously chosen such that each driver of the carrier is always engaged with one of the two adjacent transport bodies or its entry area or transport curve.The adjacent transport bodies can be mounted independently of one another, their coupling allowing the drive mechanisms to engage smoothly with the adjacent rotating transport bodies. In addition to individual carriers, assemblies of carriers or individual carrier assemblies can be provided, which may have gaps between them. These assemblies are moved along the transport bodies, particularly adjacent, coupled transport bodies, and / or precisely positioned at production stations or other stations. The transport bodies can also be equipped with independent drive units, whereby the curved transport path is interrupted in the transfer area of ​​the adjacent transport bodies by the spacing between them.Even in this case, a carrier can still be arranged or located at any time with at least one of its at least two carriers in one of the transport curve paths with a positive transport curve slope.

[0020] To further explain the invention, exemplary embodiments are described below with reference to the drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a first embodiment of a transport body according to the invention with a transport curve track of a transport system according to the invention for transporting and / or positioning objects along a transport path in a first position, wherein the transport body is in a capture position for a carrier of a carrier for transporting the objects, Fig. 2 a perspective view of the transport body according to Fig. 1 in a position rotated further in the direction of rotation or transport direction, in which the driver is captured in the transport curve track, Fig. 3 a top view of a first embodiment of a transport system according to the invention, comprising six modules arranged along a circumferential transport track, Fig. 4 a detailed view of the transport system according to Fig. 3 in the area of ​​two carriers designed for transporting objects along the transport route, which engage in transport bodies according to the invention via carriers, Fig. 4a a detailed view of the transport system according to Fig. 3, similar Fig. 4, in contrast to this, the two adjacent transport bodies are not mechanically coupled via a connecting section, Fig. 5 a top view of a second embodiment of a transport system according to the invention with a number of modules along a circumferential transport track, Fig. 6 a third embodiment of a transport system according to the invention with a number of modules along a circumferential transport track, and Fig. 7 a fourth embodiment of a transport system according to the invention with only one module along a circumferential transport route.

[0021] In the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is each a transport body 10 shown, part of a transport system 1 is, as exemplified in the Fig. 3, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. Figure 7 shows different versions of the system. The transport system is used to transport objects along a transport route. 2 In this process, the objects are placed, for example, on carriers. 3, such as sleds or pallets, arranged and transported via the transport system along the transport route to various stations, possibly at different speeds. The carriers are usually 3 with the objects located on it, such as products to be processed, via the transport system 1 from one production station to the next along the transport route 2 The carriers containing the products to be processed or manufactured are transported. At the production stations, the carriers are positioned very precisely by the transport bodies with repeatable accuracy in the hundredths of a millimeter range. This is made possible by the special design of the transport body. 10 or from its inlet area 11 .

[0022] The transport body 10 indicates an incoming 15 and an expiry 16 (see Fig. 4) on. Each of the carriers 3indicates, in particular, the detailed view in Fig. 4 can be removed, at least one roller-shaped driver, in this embodiment two roller-shaped drivers 30 , 31 , on, which is attached to the carrier 3 They are arranged at a distance from each other. These run over an inlet area. 11 and from there into a transport curve track 12 of the transport body 10 one. The transport curve track 12 is formed by two curve flanks running parallel to each other or essentially parallel to each other. 120 , 121 determined. The transport curve 12 is described as helical in the direction of transport, which is indicated by the arrow P2 as indicated, with a positive transport curve gradient S along the longitudinal extent of the transport body 10 Extending groove formed. Under the positive transport curve gradient. SThe angle is measured relative to the axis of rotation, which is also the longitudinal axis. L of the transport body 10 That's it, understood. This positive transport curve slope. S The speed of movement of the carrier can be constant or vary along its entire length. The slope of the transport curve can be adjusted to control this speed. 3 along the transport route 2 can be set or changed.

[0023] Naturally, the rotational speed around its longitudinal axis also determines L , here counterclockwise (see arrow) P1 ), rotating transport body 10 the speed of the carrier's movement 3 in the direction of transport (see arrow) P2 ). By changing the rotational speed of the rotating transport body 10 The speed of the linear movement of the carriers can of course also be determined. 3along the transport route 2 can be influenced. A rotation of the transport body is also possible. 10 Clockwise operation is possible. In principle, the transport system can be operated both counterclockwise and clockwise.

[0024] To ensure optimal engagement of the roller-shaped drive lugs 30 , 31 of the carrier 3 into the transport curve 12 of the transport body 10 in the inlet area 11 To enable this, it is designed in such a way that first the first curve flank 120 from the incoming 15 of the transport body 10 with a positive slope S1 increases. The positive slope S1 can the positive transport curve gradient S It may correspond, but it may also differ from it. The first curve slope 120 assumes a positive slope S1into an offset section 122 over, which here has a slope S2 of approximately infinity, or exhibits a slight negative or a large positive slope, in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 again as an angle to the axis of rotation or longitudinal axis L of the transport body 10 shown. As the Fig. 2 can be further removed, this offset section 122 with a gradient of approximately infinity leading into the positive transport curve gradient. S , with which the first curve flank 120 extends further. The second curve flank 121 rushes to the first curve flank 120 after, therefore it begins offset from this, namely at the level of a transition area. 123 from the offset section 122 with its gradient S2 into the positive transport curve gradient S the first curve flank 120 From that point on, both curve flanks 120 , 121the transport curve track to the side 12 and follow the positive transport curve slope S . In the in Fig. 1 and Fig. In the second variant shown, the second curve flank begins. 121 with the positive transport curve gradient S Both sides of the curve 120 , 121 From that point on, they extend parallel to each other or approximately parallel to each other with the positive slope of the transport curve. S This can also Fig. 1 and also the one in the direction of rotation, i.e., in the direction of the arrow P1 , further rotated position of the transport body 10 in Fig. 2 can be taken.

[0025] Due to the offset along the first curve flank 120 by providing the second slope S2 , which in particular can be approximately infinite or infinite, extending offset section 122 the roller-shaped driver30 or 31 in the direction of transport already very far into the longitudinal course of the transport body 10 into, before he reaches the position for threading into the transport curve track 12 reached, which serves as a trapping position in Fig. 1 is shown. Does the drive mechanism run? 30 or 31 in the inlet area 11 first diagonally onto the track with the positive transport curve gradient S1 Upon reaching the rising first curve flank, it follows this until it reaches the threading or catching position, in which it safely enters the transport curve path. 12 is being threaded. Fig. Figure 2 shows the already threaded position of the roller-shaped driver. 30 By providing the offset section 122 A kind of funnel will emerge from the inlet area. 11 into the transport route 12 generated inside, so that the respective roller-shaped driver 30 or 31 of the carrier 3targeted and defined after running up to offset section 122 as the transport body continues to rotate 10 in the direction of rotation of this (see arrow) P1 ) into the transport curve 12 moved inwards. As the transport body continues to turn or rotate. 10 the second curve flank 121 tangentially on the outside 32 of the roller-shaped driver 30 or 31 on, without striking it. Rather, this causes the roller-shaped drive element to... 30 or 31 carefully into the transport curve 12 , which pass through the two curve flanks 120 , 121 It is guided or pushed in, as it is laterally limited. It can move within the transport curve path. 12 during the rotation of the transport body 10 in the direction of transport, see arrow P2 , move forward until the incoming one 15opposite end 16 of the transport body 10 Because the first curve flank 120 from the incoming 15 of the transport body 10 directly with the positive slope S1 Since the incline increases and continues this increase in a staggered manner, neither a groove area parallel nor one perpendicular to the axis of rotation is required to allow the roller-shaped driver to engage. 30 or 31 to enable.

[0026] The offset section 122 extends with a slope S2 especially of infinite or even a negative slope, or at least a slope greater than the positive transport curve slope S where S2 ≈ ∞ or S2 < 0 or S2 > S. By providing the inlet area. 11 , in which the first curve flank 120 from the incoming 15 of the transport body 10with the positive slope S1 rises, specifically the second flank of the curve 121 it overshoots, and in its course an offset through the offset section 122 exhibits, whereby, following this, offset from the initial course, it enters the positive transport curve slope. S Once the threading begins, at least one roller-shaped drive element can be easily inserted. 30 or 31 into the transport curve 12 possible. Furthermore, it is possible without jamming and without the risk of damage to the carrier. 3 or its roller-shaped drivers 30 , 31 , which are rigid with respect to their positioning on the carrier 3 are attached, possible with the one roller-shaped drive lug. 30 of the carrier 3 already in the transport curve path 12 of an adjacent transport body 10b to intervene while the other roller-shaped driver 31of the carrier 3 still in the transport curve 12 of the preceding transport body 10a is involved in an intervention, such as Fig. 4 can be seen. The distance shown there between the two adjacent transport bodies 10a , 10b , which, as in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown can be trained, can the in Fig. 4 supports shown on the left 3a with its two roller-shaped drive lugs 30 , 31 into the transport curve paths of the two adjacent transport bodies 10a , 10b intervene simultaneously, thus with the roller-shaped driver 31 still into the transport curve path of the transport body 10a , while the roller-shaped driver 30 already in the transport curve path of the transport body 10b intervenes.

[0027] The individual transport bodies 10Not only can each travel separately along the transport route 2 via at least one transfer route, such as one or more conveyor belts 4 , conveyor chains or other suitable conveying devices are not only linked together, but also to each other, for example via a connecting section 13 , as in Fig. As indicated in point 4, they can be connected together. Especially when working with several successive manufacturing steps requiring repeatable accuracy in positioning the carriers within hundredths of a millimeter, the coupling of adjacent transport bodies proves advantageous. 10 or 10a , 10b, which are to be arranged particularly in the area of ​​a production station or of adjacent, interconnected production stations, are considered economically advantageous, since this ensures a defined distance between the transport bodies and a synchronized movement of the rotating transport bodies arranged adjacent to each other. 10 This can be achieved with just one drive unit. Of course, it is also possible, for example, to use at least two transport bodies arranged adjacent to each other at a defined distance. 10to be provided with independent, assigned drive units that can operate independently of each other, but can also generate synchronous rotation in order to transfer a carrier with its at least two drivers from the working area of ​​one transport body to the adjacent working area of ​​a neighboring transport body. The two transport bodies remain aligned along an axis. A arranged and rotate around this axis of rotation.

[0028] In the Fig. 5 , Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 represents a different number of transport bodies in each case. 10 along the respective circular transport route 2 This is shown. This is intended to illustrate that a wide variety of arrangements of transport bodies are possible. 10 in conjunction with one or more transfer routes 4 the respective circular transport route 2can be planned. This is already evident from the design of the transport route. 2 after Fig. 3, where three adjacent transport bodies are shown as examples in each case 10 to a complete module M G are summarized and the individual modules M1 until M3 and M4 until M6 , which in Fig. 3 examples along the circular transport route 2 They can be arranged adjacent to each other or spaced apart from each other. It is also possible to use only one transport body. 10 and a transfer route 4 to provide, as in Fig. 7 indicated. Furthermore, for example, only the modules M1 and M4 planned and the remaining modules omitted or, for example, the modules M1 , M2 and M4 , M5 planned and the remaining two modules M3 and M6can be omitted. For example, coupled modules, such as the modules M1 and M2 , a drive device for its drive and the module M3 a separate drive unit for its operation. Besides those in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 to Fig. 7 shown design variants of various types of transport bodies 10 along circumferential transport routes 2 Numerous other configurations can be created. This allows for suitable adaptation to a wide variety of requirements in production facilities or production stations, thus enabling rapid and cost-effective adaptation to diverse requirements of the production facilities.

[0029] Furthermore, it is not only individual modules or single modules that can be used. M1 until M6 , but also, for example, module M1 with a drive unit and the modulesM2 and M3 are provided as extension modules that are connected to the module M1 to be coupled in order to extend its transport curve. The individual transport bodies 10 or 10a , 10b can be stored independently of each other and coupled to each other at coupling points at their ends, such as through the connecting section 13 indicated, which serves for mechanical coupling. In the version according to Fig. 4a are the adjacent transport bodies 10a , 10b Only electrically coupled; the mechanical coupling is via the connecting section. 13 It's missing there. The transport curve track is missing at the coupling points. 12 interrupted, as is the case in Fig. Figure 4 shows that it is located in the area of ​​the gap between the adjacent transport bodies. 10 , 10a , 10b not possible, carrier 3 , 3awith only one roller-shaped drive 30 , 31 to use, rather the carriers 3 , 3a therefore with two roller-shaped drivers each 30 , 31 The carriers are equipped with at least two carriers. By providing them with at least two carriers, it can be ensured that at any given time at least one carrier is in one of the transport curve tracks. 12 with positive transport curve gradient S is located.

[0030] The one in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 transport bodies shown 10 As shown there, its transport curve can be designed as a cylindrical or drum curve; it is also possible to design it, for example, as a globoid curve. Hybrid shapes are also possible. Due to the special design of the inlet area... 11 into the transport curve 12 of the transport body 10In any case, a smooth, jerk-free and wear-optimized movement along the transport route is possible. 2 through the transport system 1 movable carrier 3 , whose roller-shaped drivers in particular 30 , 31 into the transport curve 12 Intervention is planned. During the inlet, the transport body can 10 rotate or stand still, with a smooth running-in of the drive lugs in both cases 30 , 31 into the respective transport curve path 12 of the respective transport body 10 is possible.

[0031] In addition to the embodiments of transport systems for transporting and / or positioning objects along a transport path described above and shown in the figures, wherein the transport system comprises at least one rotatable transport body with an entry and an exit point and at least one transport curve bounded by at least one pair of curve flanks, which, viewed in the linear transport direction, has at least a continuous positive slope and into which at least one driver of a carrier movable along the transport path can engage or does engage, wherein the at least one transport body has at least one entry area for the at least one driver to enter the transport curve, numerous other embodiments are possible, in particular any combinations of the aforementioned features.wherein in the entry area of ​​the transport body, a first curve flank of the curve flank pair is provided leading to a second curve flank, and wherein only the leading first curve flank of the curve flank pair is provided in the entry area, wherein this first curve flank rises with a positive gradient from the entry of the transport body and transitions with an offset section into the transport curve track, which is bounded by both curve flanks and rises with the positive gradient of the transport curve track. The first curve flank extends in the transport direction before and after the offset section with a positive gradient, wherein it rises with the gradient of the transport curve track after the offset section, and optionally with a different positive gradient before it. Reference symbol list 1 Transport system 2 Transport route 3 carriers 3a carrier 4 Transfer section (conveyor belt, conveyor chain, etc.) 10 transport bodies 10a Transport body 10b Transport body 11 Inlet area 12 Transport curve track 13 Connecting section 15 Incoming 16 Expiring 30 roller-shaped drive lugs 31 roller-shaped drive 32 Outside 120 first curve flank 121 second curve flank 122 Offset section 123 Transition area L Longitudinal axis / rotational axis A axis / rotational axis S positive transport curve slope S1 first slope (positive slope) of 120 S2 second incline at 122 P1 Arrow / Direction of rotation from 10 P2 Arrow / Transport direction M1 to M6 individual modules M G Overall module QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] 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

[0000] DE 102014107654 A1 [0003, 0006] EP 0424562 A1 [0004, 0006] DE 4445748 A1 [0005, 0006]

Claims

[1] Transport system (1) for transporting and / or positioning objects along a transport path (2), wherein the transport system (1) comprises at least one rotatable transport body (10, 10a, 10b) with an inlet (15) and an outlet (16) and with at least one rising transport curve (12) bounded by at least one pair of curve flanks, which has at least one positive transport curve slope (S) in the linear transport direction and into which at least one driver (30, 31) of a carrier (3) movable along the transport path (2) can engage or engages, wherein the at least one transport body (10, 10a, 10b) has at least one inlet area (11) for the at least one driver (30, 31) to enter the transport curve (12), characterized by, that in the inlet area (11) only one of the curve flanks (120) of the curve flank pair is provided, wherein this first curve flank (120) rises from the inlet (15) of the transport body (10,10a,10b) with a positive slope (S1) and transitions with an offset section (122) into the transport curve track (12) which is bounded by both curve flanks (120,121) and rises with the positive transport curve track slope (S). [2] Transport system (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the positive slope (S1) with which the first curve flank (120) rises from the entry (15) of the transport body (10,10a,10b) corresponds to the positive transport curve slope (S) of the rising transport curve path (12), or that the positive slope (S1) with which the first curve flank (120) rises from the entry (15) of the transport body (10,10a,10b) is not equal to the positive transport curve slope (S) of the rising transport curve path (12). [3] Transport system (1) according to one of the preceding claims , characterized by , that the second curve flank (121) of the curve flank pair begins with the positive transport curve slope (S) at the level of a transition area (123) of the first curve flank (120) from the offset section (122) into the transport curve track (12) rising with the positive transport curve slope (S). [4] Transport system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the continuously positive slope (S) of the transport curve (12) in the linear transport direction is at least sectionally constant or variable over the longitudinal extent of the transport body (10,10a,10b). [5] Transport system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a circulating transport route (2) comprises at least one transport body (10, 10a,10b) and at least one transfer route (4) which are connectable or connected to each other. [6] Transport system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least two transport bodies (10,10a,10b) can be arranged or arranged adjacent to each other at a predetermined or specified distance and can be coupled or connected to each other, wherein at the coupling point(s) the respective transport curve path (12) of the transport bodies (10,10a,10b) is interrupted and at least one carrier (3,3a) is provided with at least two drivers (30,31) so that at any given time at least one driver (30,31) can be arranged or is located in one of the transport curve paths (12) with a positive transport curve slope (S). [7] Transport system according to claim 6, characterized by , that the at least two transport bodies (10,10a,10b) can be considered as a single module (M G ) can be provided or equipped with only one drive device. [8] Transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by, that at least two transport bodies (10, 10a, 10b) can be arranged or are arranged adjacent to each other at a predetermined or specified distance and can each be provided or are equipped with independent drive devices, wherein in the transfer area of ​​the adjacent transport bodies (10, 10a, 10b) the transport curve track (12) is interrupted by the spacing of the adjacent transport bodies (10, 10a, 10b) and at least one carrier (3, 3a) is provided with at least two drivers (30, 31) so that at any time at least one driver (30, 31) can be arranged or is located in one of the transport curve tracks (12) with a positive transport curve slope (S). [9] Transport system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the transport curve path (12) of the transport body (10,10a,10b) is designed as a groove curve and / or rib curve and / or bead curve or in the manner of a groove with two curve flanks (120,121) of the curve flank pair. [10] Transport body (10, 10a, 10b) for a transport system (1), in particular according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transport body (10, 10a, 10b) has an inlet (15) and an outlet (16), at least one rising transport curve track (12) bounded by at least one pair of curve flanks with at least one positive transport curve track slope (S) in the linear transport direction and at least one inlet area (11) for entering at least one driver (30, 31) of a carrier (3) of the transport system (1) into the transport curve track (12), characterized by, that in the entry area (11) of the transport body (10,10a,10b) the first curve flank (120) is leading to the second curve flank (121) of the curve flank pair, wherein in the entry area (11) only the leading first curve flank (120) of the curve flank pair is provided, wherein this first curve flank (120) rises from the entry (15) of the transport body (10,10a,10b) with a positive slope (S1) and transitions with an offset section (122) into the transport curve track (12) bounded by both curve flanks (120,121) and rising with the positive transport curve track slope (S). [11] Transport body (10, 10a, 10b) according to claim 10, characterized by , that the second curve flank (121) of the curve flank pair begins with the positive transport curve slope (S) at the level of a transition area (123) of the first curve flank (120) from the offset section (122) into the transport curve track (12) rising with the positive transport curve slope (S). [12] Transport body (10, 10a, 10b) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by , that the offset section (122) of the first curve flank (120) has an infinite, negative or a gradient (S2) exceeding the positive transport curve slope (S). [13] Transport body (10, 10a, 10b) according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized by , that the positive slope (S1) with which the first curve flank (120) leading the second curve flank (121) rises from the entry (15) of the transport body (10, 10a, 10b) corresponds to or differs from the positive transport curve slope (S) of the rising transport curve path (12). [14] Transport body (10, 10a, 10b) according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized by , that the transport curve path (12) of the transport body (10,10a,10b) is designed as a cylindrical or drum curve and / or globoid curve.

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