Arrangement with several temperature control stations for heat treatment of components and their handling

Abstract

Arrangement for heat treating components (101), the arrangement comprising a first tempering station (2301) for heat treating metallic components (101), a second tempering station (2302) for heat-treating metallic components (101), wherein the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302) each have a tempering device (701) on each of which a functional device can be placed, wherein the functional device is a charging device (100) for carrying components (101) to be tempered or a device of the tempering device (701), a charging station (2311) on which the functional device can be placed, and a handling system (600) for handling the functional device, wherein the handling system (600) is configured to transport the functional device between the charging station (2311), the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302), wherein the first tempering station (2301), the second tempering station (2302) and the charging station (2311) are arranged one after the other along a series (2306, 2301), wherein the handling system (600) comprises a transport device comprising a base frame (601) which is transportable along a floor, and a fastening device (602) which is coupled to the base frame (601), wherein the fastening device (602) is designed to fasten the functional device to the base frame (601), wherein the base frame (601) is movable between the first tempering station (2301), the second tempering station (2302) and the charging station, wherein a further functional device can be placed on the temperature control devices (701) of the first temperature control station (2301) and the second temperature control station (2302), wherein the further functional device is a furnace hood (902, 903) or a guide cylinder (801), characterized in that the handling system (600) is configured to transport the further functional device between a setup location, the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to an arrangement with several tempering stations for heat-treating components and a method for heat-treating components in several tempering stations. Background of the invention

[0002] In stationary industrial furnaces, such as bell furnaces, a base of the bell furnace is first loaded with a batch of components to be heated. A corresponding furnace hood is then placed over the charge, so that the furnace hood and base form an annealing chamber. The annealing chamber can then be set to the appropriate temperature so that the charge can be heat-treated.

[0003] Several different furnace hoods (e.g., protective hoods, heat hoods, heating hoods, cooling hoods, etc.) can be placed on the base. For example, a protective hood can initially seal the annealing chamber to create a protective gas atmosphere within the annealing chamber. Furthermore, a furnace hood can be designed as a cooling hood to cool the charge. Various furnace hoods can be placed over the protective hood, creating spaces between two furnace hoods, for example, into which a specific heating or cooling medium can be introduced.

[0004] The kiln hoods are lifted by crane and lowered onto the base or into their storage location. The kiln hoods must be placed on the base with extreme precision. Furthermore, the kiln hoods must be centered relative to each other. This requires a high degree of precision and makes placing the kiln hoods time-consuming.

[0005] While the charge is being placed on the base and the furnace hoods are being stacked, no further charge can be heat treated. Such a long setup time reduces the effectiveness of the hood furnace.

[0006] The components to be heat-treated are attached to so-called crown stocks. These crown stocks are designed, for example, like columns. Coils (metal strip reels or wire reels) can be placed over the crown stocks as components to be heated. A large number of crown stocks can thus be placed on the base of the bell furnace using a manually controlled crane, forming a batch. The bell furnace cannot be operated while the individual crown stocks are being placed, which in turn requires a significant setup time.

[0007] EP 1 618 596 B1 describes a device for heat-treating substrates, comprising an annular heat-treatment area with a rotary table for accommodating substrate holders, a core area around the central axis of the rotary table, a shell area around the heat-treatment area, a loading and unloading zone for the substrate holders, at least one heat source for heating a gas stream, and gas flow guide devices. The substrate holders are arranged at least two at a time in heat-treatment zones, which in turn are arranged radially around the rotary table center in a spoke shape.

[0008] From DE 10 2005 041 233 A1 a heat treatment plant for the heat treatment of metallic objects as hardening material is known, comprising a heating chamber in which the hardening material can be heated in a suitable gas atmosphere, and an immersion bath chamber in which a heatable and / or coolable treatment bath is arranged, wherein an intermediate chamber is arranged between the heating chamber and the immersion bath chamber, wherein the heat treatment plant is equipped with charging devices which serve to introduce the hardening material into the heating chamber and into the immersion bath chamber, wherein the heating chamber and the intermediate chamber on the one hand and the intermediate chamber and the immersion bath chamber on the other hand are separated by shut-off devices.

[0009] DE 198 26 949 A1 describes a device for transporting plate-like substrates, for example glass plates for flat screens, through an evacuated transport space, from and to a plurality of vacuum treatment chambers which can be separated from the transport space by locks, wherein a substructure which can be moved in all planes and for supporting and guiding the substrates is mounted in a tilt-stable position in the transport space and the transport space has an approximately straight prismatic or straight cylindrical shape and is connected via locks provided on the radial outer wall to the treatment chambers extending in a star shape from the outer wall of the transport space, wherein at least one of these chambers is provided with an outer lock for the introduction and removal of substrates and the substructure can be moved by a motor-driven movement device from a starting position in the transport space into the treatment chamber.

[0010] From DE 21 56 306 B2 a multi-station vacuum furnace system for tempering, hardening and brazing workpieces is known, in which a vacuum furnace located in a vacuum recipient is connected by means of a vacuum slide to a removable, open protective hood in which the material to be heat treated can be transported in a suspended arrangement to the individual treatment stations.

[0011] EP 2 511 639 A1 describes a rotary hearth furnace of ring design for the heat treatment of workpieces, comprising an outer and inner wall which delimit a furnace chamber having at least one treatment zone, at least one heating device heating the furnace chamber, an annular rotary hearth, and a rotary drive driving the rotary hearth, wherein a plurality of frames are provided in the furnace chamber, which frames are arranged circumferentially on the annular rotary hearth for receiving or supporting workpieces introduced into the furnace chamber, wherein the outer wall has at least one closable opening for loading and / or unloading the furnace chamber, and wherein each frame is provided with receiving elements which divide the frame into at least two horizontal planes for receiving workpieces arranged one above the other, wherein at least one workpiece can be received in each horizontal plane,and wherein at least one additional heating device is arranged between at least two horizontal planes of a respective frame, heating the workpieces held in the corresponding horizontal planes, wherein the at least one additional heating device is an electrically operated heating device which is electrically connected to at least one busbar running below the rotary hearth.

[0012] DE 696 12 655 T2 describes a plant for heat-treating a batch of metal pieces, comprising a first unit of components arranged in an upper row, at least two of these components being downwardly open furnaces, and a second unit of components, at least one of which is a quenching vessel, wherein the components equipped with lifting devices are displaceable on a horizontal track and are arranged in a lower position below the transfer position of the displaceable components of the first unit, wherein, with any number of components of the two units, each component of the second unit can be brought in front of any desired component of the first unit, and comprising a movable filling / unloading manipulator, wherein the components of the first unit are displaceable on lateral tracks relative to the longitudinal axis of the upper row.such that the components of the first unit are movable from a working position to a transfer position and vice versa, the working positions for each movable furnace comprising a lift acting on a plug of the furnace, and the filling / unloading manipulator being movable on a vertical path running along the first unit and allowing the filling / unloading of all components of the first unit.

[0013] From DE 43 03 686 A1 a furnace system for the heat treatment of metallic workpieces is known, comprising a first tunnel furnace for a high-temperature range and a second tunnel furnace for a low-temperature range, with material holders that can be moved through the tunnel furnaces for receiving material to be heat-treated, and with closable insertion and removal openings for inserting the material to be treated and for removing the treated material, wherein the high-temperature furnace and the low-temperature furnace are ring-shaped, each of the furnaces is provided with only one charging opening that can be closed with a door, and the material holders are designed to be rotatable on a central rotary connection through the furnaces.

[0014] FR 1 483 444 A describes a plant for the thermal treatment of, in particular, windings or coils made of strip metal or the like, comprising a series of structures comprising furnaces and surfaces for supporting the coils arranged in a row, a platform or carriage for loading the coils moving on rails along that row, thus enabling complete automation of the operations. Description of the invention

[0015] It is an object of the present invention to increase the efficiency of a stationary furnace for metal components.

[0016] This object is achieved with an arrangement for heat-treating components and a method for heat-treating components according to the independent claims.

[0017] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an arrangement for heat-treating components, in particular rolled metal strips or metal wires (so-called coils), is described. The arrangement comprises a first tempering station for heat-treating components and a second tempering station for heat-treating components. The first tempering station and the second tempering station each have a tempering device on which a functional device can be placed. The functional device is a charging device for supporting components to be tempered or a device of the tempering device, such as a guide cylinder or a furnace hood of a hood furnace.The arrangement further comprises a charging station on which the functional device can be placed, and a handling system for handling the functional device. The handling system is configured to transport the functional device between the charging station, the first temperature control station, and the second temperature control station, in particular autonomously and automatically. The first temperature control station, the second temperature control station, and the charging station are arranged one after the other along a row. The handling system comprises a transport device with a base frame, which can be transported along a floor, and a fastening device coupled to the base frame.The fastening device is designed to fasten the functional device to the base frame, wherein the base frame is movable between the first temperature control station, the second temperature control station, and the charging station. A further functional device can be placed on each of the temperature control devices of the first temperature control station and the second temperature control station, wherein the further functional device is a furnace hood or a guide cylinder. The handling system is configured to transport the further functional device between a setup location, the first temperature control station, and the second temperature control station.

[0018] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method for heat treating components having the arrangement described above is provided.

[0019] The tempering stations describe a location or station at which a tempering device is provided to temper the components, for example in particular in the manner of a hood furnace or in the manner of other stationary or continuous furnaces. The tempering stations each have a tempering device into which the components to be tempered are placed, for example individually or as a batch in a charging device. The charging device can be, for example, a crown stock, a basket, a storage container or a carrier or support frame. Furthermore, a corresponding furnace base of a hood furnace can be placed in the corresponding tempering stations as a tempering device, wherein corresponding furnace hoods of tempering devices can be placed on the furnace base, which together with the furnace base insulate the components from the environment.Furthermore, closed furnace chambers of tempering devices may be present in the corresponding tempering stations.

[0020] A tempering device describes a device that can temper components to be tempered, i.e. can heat or cool the components.

[0021] In particular, the temperature control devices described here can be a stationary furnace, such as a stationary bell furnace. The temperature control device can also be a cooling device.

[0022] In the described tempering device, various components, particularly metal components, can be heat-treated according to a predetermined tempering profile. The components consist, for example, of metal strips or metal wires. The metal strips or metal wires can be wound as coils, thus achieving better stacking. A unit of components that can be tempered in a tempering process in the tempering device is referred to as a batch. The components can also be piece goods or bulk goods. The components can also be cast components, forged components, or sintered components. Furthermore, a component can be a semi-finished product.

[0023] In the temperature control stations, the components are tempered, i.e., heated or actively cooled. Furthermore, the components can also be held at a specific temperature for a predetermined period of time.

[0024] In the charging stations, the components are prepared for the temperature control stations and charged accordingly. For example, support elements and carrier elements of a charging device can be placed on a charging station and loaded with the components. The charging device has a support element as a base body. The components can be attached to a carrier element, which can be designed as a support column. The components can, for example, be plugged onto the support column. The support element is detachably attached to the base body. Furthermore, a handling system can be coupled to the support element or base body or the support column via a transport coupling for transporting the charging device. The charging device can also be designed as a basket, a storage container, or a carrier or support frame for the components.

[0025] From the charging station, for example, the fastening device of the handling system can grasp the charging device and transport it to a corresponding temperature control station. A movable base body of the charging device can be placed at a charging station, on which a plurality of charged components can be placed, in particular on corresponding carrier elements or support elements. Thus, a base body equipped with a plurality of carrier elements can be moved to the charging station, where the handling system then picks up the base body or the plurality of support elements and moves them on to the corresponding temperature control stations.

[0026] The handling system can be designed as a (semi-)autonomous system and can operate the temperature control and charging stations independently, i.e., without manual control interventions. For this purpose, the handling system can be equipped with motion sensors, distance sensors, and position sensors, for example, to enable precise control. Furthermore, the handling system can be rail-guided, for example, as described below.

[0027] A functional device describes, for example, a charging device in which a large number of components can be prepared in order to be transported further by the handling system to the other stations. A functional device is also understood to be, for example, a guide cylinder or a furnace hood, which can be placed, for example, on a base of the temperature control device at a temperature control station. In a hood furnace, for example, several different furnace hoods can be nested one on top of the other. A furnace hood with a larger diameter is placed, for example, over a furnace hood with a smaller diameter, so that the smaller furnace hood is located inside the larger furnace hood. The innermost furnace hood can, for example, function as a protective hood, so that a protective gas atmosphere can be created in an inner annealing chamber.For example, an additional furnace hood, such as a heating hood or a cooling hood, can be placed over the protective hood. A furnace hood can, for example, have a height between 4 m and 8 m (meters). A furnace hood can, for example, have a diameter between 4 m and 6 m.

[0028] The temperature control stations, the charging stations, and, for example, the storage stations described below, are arranged one after the other along a linear or circular array. The handling system can serve the individual stations along this array and remove or supply components from them accordingly. The temperature control stations, the charging stations, and, for example, the storage stations described below, are therefore not arranged parallel to one another, so that the handling system, for example, moves between the stations, but rather are arranged one after the other along a array or arrangement line. The handling system can be moved or pivoted along the array.

[0029] The arrangement described above provides an efficient temperature control system for components in several temperature control devices at corresponding temperature control stations, e.g., based on the hood furnace principle. Several temperature control stations and a charging station are served by components using the handling system. For example, the handling system can transport a batch of components to one temperature control station while another batch of components is already being prepared at the charging station. While one batch of components is being temperature controlled in one temperature control station, temperature-controlled components can be transported to the other temperature control station or fed to this additional temperature control station. In addition, it is possible for the handling system to also lift and transport the furnace hoods of the respective temperature control stations in order to ensure access to the temperature-controlled components or the base of the temperature control stations.With the handling system, which operates the temperature control stations and the charging stations, simultaneous process steps such as charging, heating and / or cooling can be carried out.

[0030] In the described tempering device or hood furnace, various components, especially metal components, can be heat-treated according to a predetermined tempering profile. The components consist, for example, of metal strips or metal wires. The metal strips or metal wires can be wound into coils, thus achieving better stacking.

[0031] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the arrangement comprises at least one further, in particular four further, tempering stations for heat-treating components, wherein the further tempering station comprises a tempering device on which a functional device can be placed. The handling system is configured to transport the functional device between the at least one charging station and the tempering stations. The described exemplary embodiment emphasizes that a plurality of tempering stations can be operated using one and the same handling system.

[0032] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the arrangement has at least one further charging station on which the functional device can be placed. The handling system is configured to transport the functional device between the charging stations and the temperature control stations. For example, the carrier elements can be loaded with components at one charging station, while the handling system places a batch of already temperature-controlled components at the other charging station. The handling system can then grasp the batch, which has not yet been temperature-controlled, and transport it to a free temperature control station, while the already temperature-controlled components can be further processed at the other charging station.

[0033] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the arrangement comprises a storage station at which the handling system and / or the functional device can be stored, wherein the handling system is configured to transport the functional device between the storage station, the at least one charging station, and the temperature control stations. The storage station thus forms a placeholder between the temperature control stations and the charging stations. For example, a batch of already temperature-treated components can be stored at the storage station while the handling system is already transporting further functional units, such as another batch of components to be temperature-treated or a furnace hood. Furthermore, furnace hoods of a temperature control station can be stored to enable the handling of and access to components in this temperature control station.

[0034] According to another exemplary embodiment, the at least one charging station and the temperature control stations are arranged next to one another along a linear array, with the handling system configured to be movable parallel to the linear array. A linear array can be understood, for example, as meaning that the centers or midpoints of the respective stations (temperature control stations, charging stations, and, if applicable, storage stations) are arranged at a distance from one another along an imaginary line.

[0035] This allows for a linear arrangement along which the handling system can be moved. In this arrangement, it is possible, for example, to arrange several of the linear arrangements described above in parallel next to one another. This allows for optimal use of space in a hall, for example.

[0036] According to another exemplary embodiment, the at least one charging station and the temperature control stations are arranged next to one another along a circular array, with the handling system located at the center of the circular array. A circular array can be understood, for example, as meaning that the centers or midpoints of the respective stations (temperature control stations, charging stations, and, if applicable, storage stations) are arranged at a distance from one another along an imaginary circle.

[0037] With a circular arrangement, the stations can be placed closely around the handling system. The handling system can thus reach each station quickly, without having to perform long translational movements. If the handling system is placed in the center or midpoint of the circular arrangement, the handling system can rotate and, based on the rotation, adjust its orientation to a desired station. The handling system, for example, with its base frame and / or gripper frame, can then be extended translationally from the center toward the respective station in order to place or remove the corresponding functional equipment, such as the charged components or the furnace hoods.

[0038] A ring or ring segment arrangement according to the embodiment described above results in short transfer paths and thus short charging times.

[0039] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the arrangement comprises a turntable arranged on a floor in the center of the circular array. The handling system is positioned at the center on the turntable such that the orientation of the handling system can be rotated by rotating the turntable. For example, guide rails can be formed on the turntable, into which the rail guide elements of the base frame can be coupled. When the turntable is in a desired rotational position, the guide rails of the turntable are aligned with the guide rails in the floor, such that the base frame can be moved along the guide rails of the turntable and the guide rails in the floor, which lead towards the desired station.

[0040] According to a further exemplary embodiment, a first group of the at least one charging station and the temperature control stations is arranged adjacent to one another along the circular array, with a second group of temperature control stations being arranged adjacent to one another along a further circular array. The circular array and the further circular array overlap, with the handling system being arranged such that the handling system can be moved, in particular linearly, between the center of the circular array and another center of the further circular array.

[0041] The circular array and the further circular array overlap in a single area, so to speak, with the circumference of the overlapping array forming the shape of an 8. Both circular arrays each have spaced-apart centers from which the handling system can serve the respective group of stations. In the exemplary embodiment, the handling system can be moved between the centers to reach all stations. In a further exemplary embodiment, a respective handling system can be provided at each center.

[0042] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the arrangement comprises a further turntable which is arranged on a base in the further center of the further circular array, wherein the handling system can be placed in the further center on the turntable in such a way that the handling system can be rotated in its orientation by rotating the further turntable.

[0043] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the arrangement comprises a control unit coupled to the handling system, the temperature control stations, and the at least one charging station, wherein the control unit is configured to automatically (autonomously) control the handling system, the temperature control stations, and the at least one charging station. The control unit comprises, for example, a microprocessor configured to execute corresponding control programs for controlling the handling system and the temperature control devices at the temperature control stations. In particular, the arrangement can be operated automatically by means of the control unit, so that, in particular based on the control programs, the handling system can be moved and the temperature control devices at the temperature control stations can be operated automatically.

[0044] The handling system comprises a transport device. The transport device comprises a base frame, which can be transported along a floor, and a fastening device, which is coupled to the base frame. The fastening device is designed to selectively fasten the functional device to the base frame, wherein the base frame is designed such that the base frame can be transported for transporting the functional device between a setup location, at which the functional device can be selectively fastened to the base frame, and a temperature control location in the temperature control device.

[0045] According to another exemplary embodiment, the handling system comprises a functional device as described above. The functional device consists, for example, of the charging device described above for carrying components to be tempered or a furnace hood.

[0046] According to another exemplary embodiment, the base frame is formed along a base plane, with the fastening device being movable perpendicularly and / or parallel to the base plane. In addition to height adjustment, the fastening device can also be used to perform fine adjustment parallel to the base plane, as the fastening device can also be moved parallel to the base plane.

[0047] According to another exemplary embodiment, the transport device comprises at least one first guide structure, which is fixed to the base frame and extends (at least with one directional component) perpendicular to the base plane. The fastening device comprises a first guide carriage, which is movably coupled to the first guide structure. The first guide carriage can be selectively coupled to the functional device.

[0048] The first guide structure consists, for example, of one or more beams (steel beams) fixed to the base frame. Furthermore, the first guide structure can also consist of a framework of beams. The beams, for example, simultaneously form guide rails for the first guide carriage. For example, the first guide carriage can be movable along a column as a beam. Alternatively, two spaced beams can be provided, for example, on which the first guide carriage is movably arranged.

[0049] For example, to fit a furnace hood over another furnace hood or over the components, the guide carriages can be moved up to a height of 15 to 20 meters. Accordingly, the guide structures have a height of 15 to 20 or 25 meters.

[0050] The guide carriage can be driven mechanically, for example by means of a chain drive, or electrically, for example by means of a servo motor.

[0051] According to another exemplary embodiment, the first guide carriage has a controllable fastening element, in particular a clamping jaw. The controllable fastening element can be adjusted into a release position, in which the functional device is decoupled from the controllable fastening element, and into a clamping position, in which the functional device is coupled to the controllable fastening element.

[0052] The controllable fastening elements are, for example, movable clamping jaws or an operable gripping element to implement a selective coupling with the functional unit. Furthermore, the controllable fastening element can have an extendable fastening bolt. The fastening element is arranged so that it can be moved translationally or pivoted between the release position and the clamping / fixing position. For this purpose, the functional unit can, in particular, have corresponding coupling areas in which the controllable fastening element can engage. For example, a coupling area can have a fastening rail, a fastening sleeve, a fastening hook, and / or a fastening eyelet, so that the controllable fastening element can engage selectively.

[0053] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the transport device has at least one second guide structure, which is fixed to the base frame and extends perpendicular to the base plane. The fastening device has a second guide carriage, which is movably coupled to the second guide structure. The second guide carriage can be selectively coupled to the functional device, wherein the first guide carriage and the second guide carriage are arranged such that the guide carriages are opposite one another with respect to the functional device.

[0054] The second guide structure can be designed in accordance with the first guide structure described above. Accordingly, the described further first guide carriages, second guide carriages, and further second guide carriages can be designed in accordance with the guide carriage described above.

[0055] Thus, the functional device can be advantageously fastened, in particular clamped, between the first guide carriage and the second guide carriage.

[0056] In another exemplary embodiment, a further third guide structure can also be fixed to the base body along with a corresponding third guide carriage. This allows multiple attachment points to be created with the functional device, thus achieving a robust coupling.

[0057] According to another exemplary embodiment, the transport device comprises a further fastening device, wherein the further fastening device is movable perpendicular to the base plane. The fastening device and the further fastening device can thus be arranged one after the other along a direction perpendicular to the base plane. In particular, the fastening device and the further fastening device can be moved relative to one another.

[0058] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the further fastening device has a further first guide carriage which is movably coupled to the first guide structure, wherein the further first guide carriage can be selectively coupled to the functional device or to a further functional device.

[0059] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the further fastening device comprises a further second guide carriage, which is movably coupled to the second guide structure. The further second guide carriage can be selectively coupled to the functional device or the further functional device. The further first guide carriage and the further second guide carriage are arranged such that the further guide carriages are opposite one another with respect to the functional device.

[0060] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the handling system comprises a further functional device, which is designed, for example, as a furnace hood. The further functional device can be selectively coupled to the further fastening device, wherein the functional device can be moved relative to one another by means of the fastening device, and the further functional device can be moved relative to one another by means of the further fastening device.

[0061] This means, for example, that an additional furnace hood can be placed over the charging device for carrying components to be tempered or over a first furnace hood as a functional device. Alternatively, an additional hood can be removed from the functional device using the additional fastening device. Using the handling system described, a complete charging unit can be assembled outside of the tempering device. First, the charge can be conveyed into the tempering station. Then the protective hood can be attached. It is also possible to attach the heating hood at the same time. During decharging, the furnace hoods can be removed first before the charge is lifted off. Because the furnace hood is guided by the handling system, assembly devices such as guide columns for centering the furnace hoods during crane-based assembly are not required.

[0062] Because the first and second guide structures and their movable fastening devices form a rigid unit, the functional units can be positioned extremely precisely relative to one another. In conventional applications of a crane to transport functional units, the functional units swing or sway on the crane rope, making precise alignment of the functional units extremely difficult and time-consuming. The rigid unit of the handling system described above facilitates centering of the furnace hoods and the relative alignment of the functional units.

[0063] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the handling system further comprises at least one coupling element which is designed to selectively couple the functional device to the further functional device to a charging unit in such a way that the charging unit can be moved perpendicular to the base plane by means of the first fastening device or the second fastening device.

[0064] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the functional device forms a gripper unit to which a component can be selectively coupled, wherein the gripper unit can be selectively fastened to the base frame by means of the fastening device.

[0065] According to a further exemplary embodiment, the gripper unit comprises a gripper frame and a rod unit with a plurality of, in particular mutually parallel, rods. The rod unit is designed to be movable relative to the gripper frame and / or together with the gripper frame (relative to the base frame) such that the rods can be inserted into engagement openings of support elements on which the components can be placed in order to transport the support elements.

[0066] The gripper frame, for example, has a U-shape consisting of two parallel beams connected to a common base beam. Inside the gripper frame, several bars of the bar unit extend from one side of the gripper frame toward the open side of the U-shaped gripper frame. The bars are configured such that they can be inserted into corresponding engagement openings of support elements of the charging device described above. In this respect, the engagement openings form through-openings through the support elements.

[0067] The rod unit can be designed to be movable relative to the gripper frame and, for example, moved in the direction of the support elements. Furthermore, the rod unit, together with the gripper frame, can be designed to be movable relative to the base frame, which is designed to be movable along the floor. Thus, the gripper frame with the rod unit can be moved in and out of the base frame to grip the support elements on which the components can be stored.

[0068] The gripper frame can be selectively coupled to the base frame. For example, a coupling device or fastening device can be provided on the base frame, which selectively couples the base frame for subsequent transport.

[0069] After the rods of the rod unit have been inserted, the gripper frame or the base frame of the handling system can be raised or lowered in order to move the support elements along the carrier elements and / or to transport the support elements together with the component to desired locations, such as the tempering station or charging stations described below.

[0070] According to another exemplary embodiment, the transport device comprises roller elements on the base frame, by means of which the base frame can be moved along a floor. The roller elements can, for example, comprise a driven roller element, so that the transport device can be driven.

[0071] According to another exemplary embodiment, the transport device comprises a rail guide element and a guide rail. The guide rail can be fixed to a floor, wherein the rail guide element is coupled to the base frame and can be coupled to the guide rail such that the base frame can be moved along the guide rail. The guide rails can, for example, be embedded or fixed in a floor and guide the transport device in a desired direction of travel. The rail guide element comprises, for example, a rubber wheel or a metal wheel, which can be detachably coupled to the guide rails and can be moved along the guide rails.

[0072] Alternatively or in addition to the guide rails, in another exemplary embodiment, the arrangement can have conveyor rollers on the floor along which the handling system can be transported. This provides a roller conveyor along which the handling system can roll between the stations. The conveyor rollers can be at least partially driven to actively move the handling system.

[0073] The arrangement according to the invention thus provides a (partially) automated solution in which several components defined above, for example, stacks of wire coils, can be simultaneously fed in or removed. In particular, the entire handling process of the components, on the one hand, and the equipment from the tempering devices (e.g., furnace hoods), on the other hand, can be carried out by the innovative handling and charging device (i.e., the handling system), thus completely replacing, for example, a crane. In particular, the arrangement reduces the travel distances of a charging device due to the described station arrangements.

[0074] The heat treatment of components, e.g. wire coils, takes place in the tempering devices in the tempering stations, which can be operated like a hood furnace. In the case of a hood furnace as the tempering device, wire coils are stacked as components in several stacks on a furnace base. To avoid damage to the wire coils, this is done in several levels above a certain stack height. In further process steps, protective, cooling and heating hoods can then be placed over the stacked coils in the appropriate sequence. Charging, i.e. loading and unloading the furnace with wire coils, for example, takes up 10% of the total process time. The entire handling of the wire coils and the various hoods is often carried out using large cranes. The handling system and arrangement according to the invention are described in order to reduce charging times.In one exemplary embodiment, the handling system can function as a rail-guided lifting carriage, so that a base frame of the handling system is designed to be movable on guide rails on the floor. The handling system can, on the one hand, decharge the entire annealed charge from the annealing base in a single step, load the furnace (tempering station) with the entire new charge in a subsequent step, and handle the entire hood handling (cooling hood including protective hood and / or heating hood). The individual work steps are to be accomplished using different attachments or attachments (e.g., the described gripper unit or the guide structures) that are mounted on the lifting carriage or base frame.

[0075] In an exemplary embodiment, the handling system or the lifting truck has a device with which the entire truck or the base frame can be moved between the individual rail tracks of guide rails in the floor by raising or lowering.

[0076] The charging attachment or charging device is stored at one of the charging stations or another suitable storage location and, if required, coupled to the handling system. This is done, for example, by driving underneath the attachment or the support element and then lifting it using the handling system. The charge can be lifted using the handling system. This means that, for example, the charging attachment itself does not need to have its own lifting device. According to an exemplary embodiment, the load of the support element can be picked up using forks (i.e., using the rods of the rod unit). For example, 4 to 7 crown stock towers (devices according to the invention) on the base or at the stations can be moved simultaneously.

[0077] It should be noted that the embodiments described here represent only a limited selection of possible embodiments of the invention. It is thus possible to combine the features of individual embodiments in a suitable manner, so that a multitude of different embodiments can be regarded as obviously disclosed to a person skilled in the art with the embodiments explicitly described here. In particular, some embodiments of the invention are described with device claims and other embodiments of the invention with method claims. However, upon reading this application, it will immediately become clear to a person skilled in the art that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, in addition to a combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter of the invention, any combination of features belonging to different types of subject matter of the invention is also possible. Short description of the drawings

[0078] For further explanation and better understanding of the present invention, exemplary embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 schematic representations of an arrangement with a linear arrangement of tempering stations and charging stations according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 to Fig. 6 schematic representations of an arrangement with a circular arrangement of tempering stations and charging stations according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 schematic representations of an arrangement with a circular arrangement and a further circular arrangement of tempering stations and charging stations according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 8 a schematic representation of a charging device with a support element or a support column and a support element as a base body according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 schematic representations of a handling system of a gripper unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of a handling system with fastening devices for gripping furnace hoods according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0079] Identical or similar components in different figures are provided with the same reference numerals. The representations in the figures are schematic.

[0080] Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 show schematic representations of an arrangement with a linear array 2306 of tempering stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305 for heat-treating components, charging stations 2311, 2312, and a storage area 2310 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In Fig. 2 additionally shows a sixth temperature control station 2401.

[0081] The temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305 each have a temperature control device 701, in each of which a functional device can be placed. The functional device is, for example, a charging device 100 for carrying components 101 to be temperature-controlled, in particular a charging device as in Fig. 8, a guide cylinder 801 or a furnace hood 902, 903. Furthermore, the arrangement comprises two charging stations 2311, 2312 on which the functional devices can be placed. The arrangement further comprises a handling system 600 for handling the functional device, wherein the handling system 600 is configured to transport the functional device between the charging station 2311, 2312, the tempering stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2301, and the storage location 2310.

[0082] The temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401 describe a location or station at which a temperature control device is provided. The temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401 comprise at least one temperature control device 701, onto which the components 101 to be temperature controlled can be placed, particularly when they are placed in the charging device 100. For example, corresponding furnace hoods 901, 902 of temperature control stations 701 can be placed in the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401, which, together with corresponding furnace bases, thermally insulate the components 101 from the environment. Fig. 2, corresponding furnace hoods 902, 903 are arranged at the third tempering station 2303 and at the fourth tempering station 2304.

[0083] In the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, and 2401, the components 101 are temperature-controlled, i.e., heated or actively cooled. Furthermore, the components in the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, and 2401 can also be kept at a specific temperature for a predetermined period of time.

[0084] In the charging stations 2311, 2312, the components 101 are prepared for the tempering stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401 and charged accordingly. For example, the above-described support elements 105 and carrier elements 103 of the device 100 can be placed on a charging station 2311 and loaded with the components 101. From the charging station 2311, for example, the fastening device 602 of the handling system can grip the charging device 100 or the gripper frame 1702 and feed it to a corresponding tempering station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401.

[0085] The arrangement further comprises a storage station 2310, at which the handling system 600 and / or the functional device can be stored. The storage station 2310 thus forms a placeholder between the tempering stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2301 and the charging stations 2311, 2312. For example, a batch of already tempered components 101 can be stored at the storage station 2310, while the handling system 600 is already transporting further functional units, such as another batch of components 101 to be tempered or a furnace hood 902, 903. Furthermore, furnace hoods 902, 903 of a tempering station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401 can be stored to enable handling and access to components 101 in this tempering station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401.

[0086] The handling system 600 can transport a batch of components 101 to a tempering station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401, while another batch of components 101 is already being prepared on the charging station 2311, 2312. While one batch of components 101 is being tempered in a tempering station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401, tempered components can be transported to the other tempering station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401 or fed to this further tempering station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401. Furthermore, it is possible for the handling system 600 to also lift and transport the furnace hoods 901, 902 of the respective tempering station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401 (see Fig. 8 to Fig. 12) to ensure access to the temperature-controlled components 101 or the temperature control device of the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401.

[0087] In Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 further shows an exemplary drive system for the handling system 600. The transport device of the handling system 600 has a rail guide element and guide rails 2402. The guide rails 2402 can be fixed to a floor, wherein the rail guide element is coupled to the base frame 601 and can be coupled to the guide rails 2402 such that the base frame 601 can be moved along the guide rails 2402. The guide rails 2402 can, for example, be embedded or fastened in a floor and guide the transport device 600 in a desired direction of travel. The rail guide element has, for example, a rubber wheel or a metal wheel, which can be detachably coupled to the guide rails 2402 and can be moved along the guide rails 2402.

[0088] The handling system 600 is configured to be movable parallel to the linear array 2306, for example.

[0089] The charging stations 2311, 2312 are also designed to be movable, or a movable base body 102 can be placed at a charging station 2311, 2312, on which a plurality of charged components 101 are already placed, in particular on corresponding carrier elements 103 or support elements 105 (see Fig. 1, Fig. 16). Thus, a base body 102 equipped with a plurality of support elements 103 can be moved to the charging station 2311, 2312, wherein the handling system 600 subsequently picks up the base body 102 or the plurality of support elements 105 and moves them on to the corresponding tempering stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401.

[0090] Furthermore, a control unit 2307 is coupled to the handling system 600, the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401, and the charging stations 2311, 2312. The control unit 2307 is configured to automatically control the handling system 600, the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401, and the charging stations 2311, 2312. The arrangement can be operated automatically by means of the control unit 2307, so that in particular based on control programs the handling system 600 can be moved and the temperature control devices at the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401 are operated automatically.

[0091] In Fig. 3, the movement arrows further illustrate the directions of movement of the handling system 600. The handling system 600 can, for example, be moved parallel along the linear array 2306 of the individual stations (first to fifth temperature control stations 2301-2305, storage location 2310, charging stations 2311, 2312, sixth temperature control station 2401) and load or unload the respective station at a predetermined position by extending the handling system 600 toward the respective station.

[0092] Furthermore, Fig. Three hall supports 2501 are shown. The hall supports 2501 can be arranged, for example, between two adjacent stations. The distribution of the hall supports 2501 allows the assembly to be installed in a structurally simple and robust hall. Accordingly, the required hall space can be saved.

[0093] Fig. 4 to Fig. 6 show schematic representations of an arrangement with a circular array 2601 of temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, a storage station 2310, and charging stations 2311, 2312, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The handling system 600 is arranged in the center of the circular array 2601. Corresponding to the circular array 2601, the centers or midpoints of the respective stations (temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, storage station 2310, and charging stations 2311, 2312) are arranged spaced apart from one another along an imaginary circle.

[0094] With the circular arrangement, the tempering stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, the storage station 2310, and the charging stations 2311, 2312 are placed closely around the handling system 600. The handling system 600 can thus reach each of the stations in a short distance. The handling system 600 can rotate and, based on the rotation, adjust its orientation to a desired station. Subsequently, the handling system 600, for example with its base frame 601 and / or the gripper frame 1702, can be extended translationally from the center toward the respective station in order to place or remove the corresponding functional devices, such as the charged components 101 or the furnace hoods 902, 903.

[0095] In the exemplary embodiment, the arrangement comprises a turntable 2602 arranged on a floor in the center of the circular array 2601. The handling system 600 is positioned at the center on the turntable 2602 such that the orientation of the handling system 600 can be rotated by rotating the turntable 2602. For example, guide rails can be formed on the turntable 2602, into which the rail guide elements of the base frame 601 can be coupled. At a desired rotational position of the turntable 2602, the guide rails of the turntable 2602 are aligned with the guide rails 2402 in the floor, so that the base frame 601 can be moved along the guide rails of the turntable 2602 and the guide rails 2402 in the floor, which lead in the direction of the desired station.

[0096] In Fig. 5 shows several exemplary operating positions of the handling system 600. In one operating position, the turntable 2602 is oriented toward the second temperature control station 2302. The first temperature control station 2301, the second temperature control station 2302, the third temperature control station 2303, and the fifth temperature control station 2305 are, for example, in the "heating" operating mode H and heat a batch of components 101. The base frame 601 of the handling system 600 is extended from the turntable 2602 toward the second temperature control station 2302 and partially surrounds the second temperature control station 2302. In this position, the handling system 600 can, for example, lift and transport a furnace hood 902.

[0097] Likewise, the turntable 2602 can be rotated further so that in a further operating position the handling system 600 can, for example, enclose the fifth tempering station 2305 and can accordingly handle a furnace hood 902, 903 or a batch of components 101.

[0098] Furthermore, another operating position is shown in which the handling system 600 places a furnace hood 903 on the storage location 2310. The furnace hood 903 can be stored at the storage location 2310 until further use is planned.

[0099] Furthermore, in Fig. 5 on the second charging station 2312 the charging device 100, for example, from Fig. 8, in which a plurality of components 101, such as wire bundles, are combined into a batch. The entire batch can be picked up by the handling system 600 and placed at one of the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305 for temperature control. In this regard, it is shown by way of example that in the fourth temperature control station 2304, for example, the process step of cooling K a batch of components 101 is carried out. Each individual temperature control station 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305 can, for example, function for cooling K or heating H the components 101 and can be equipped with corresponding heating hoods or cooling hoods.

[0100] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, a plurality of corresponding stations can be operated and served in a very small space with a handling system 600. Furthermore, the control unit 2307 can be used to fully automatically operate the handling system 600 and the plurality of stations.

[0101] In Fig. 6 illustrates the directions of movement of the handling system 600 by way of example. Furthermore, a plurality of hall supports 2501 are shown. For example, hall supports 2501 can be arranged along the circular array 2601, so that a statically stable, large-area hall for arranging the arrangement can be provided in a simple and robust manner.

[0102] Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement with a circular array 2601 and a further circular array 2901 of tempering stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, charging stations 2311, 2312 and storage stations 2310 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] A first group of the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, the storage station 2310 and the charging stations 2311, 2312 are arranged next to one another along the circular array 2601, wherein a second group of the temperature control stations 2301', 2302', 2303', 2304', 2305' and the storage station 2310' are arranged next to one another along a further circular array 2901. The circular array 2601 and the further circular array 2901 overlap, wherein the handling system 600 is arranged such that the handling system 600 can be moved, in particular linearly, between the center of the circular array 2601 and a further center of the further circular array 2901.

[0104] Both circular arrays 2601, 2901 overlap and each have spaced centers from which the handling system 600 can serve the respective group of stations. The two circular arrays 2601, 2901 have a gap or distance between their stations at a common position, through which the handling system 600 can be moved between the centers.

[0105] The arrangement comprises a further rotary plate 2902, which is arranged on a base in the further center of the further circular array 2901. With the Fig. In the configuration shown in Figure 7, a plurality of temperature control stations (S1 to S8) can be operated independently of one another in a heating mode or a cooling mode. Furthermore, for example, the charging station 2311 (C-in) can represent the input of a batch of components 101, which is subsequently transported further by the handling system 600. Furthermore, for example, the charging station 2312 (C-out) can represent the output of a batch of components 101, wherein fully temperature-controlled batches of components 101 can be placed on the charging station 2312 and transported away for further processing.

[0106] Batches of components 101 or furnace hoods 902, 903 can be temporarily stored in storage locations 2310, 2310' (LP1, LP2).

[0107] Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of a charging device 100 with a carrier element 103 or carrier beam 1302 and a support element 105 as base body 102 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] The components 101 consist, for example, of rolled metal strips or metal wires. These are also placed over the support beam 1302 and rest accordingly on a support element 105, 105'.

[0109] The lowermost support element 105 further comprises engagement openings 107 into which gripping elements (e.g. the rods of the rod unit 1703 from Fig. 9) can engage to raise and lower the support element 105. By raising and lowering the support element 105, the components 101 can be handled accordingly.

[0110] Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 show schematic representations of a handling system 600 with a gripper unit 1701.

[0111] For example, the individual charging devices 100, on which the components 101 are mounted, can be slid onto the rods of the rod unit 1703. For example, the engagement openings 107 of the support element 105 can serve for this purpose. The charging devices 100 can be placed, for example, on the charging station 2311, 2312, such that parallel-aligned rods of the rod unit 1703 can be inserted into a plurality of charging devices 100, thus transporting multiple charging devices 100.

[0112] The rod unit 1703 can be designed to be movable relative to the gripper frame 1702 and, for example, can be moved in the direction of the support elements 105. Furthermore, the rod unit 1703, together with the gripper frame 1702, can be designed to be movable relative to the base frame 601, which is designed to be movable along the floor. Thus, the gripper frame 1702 with the rod unit 1703 can be moved in and out of the base frame 601 in order to grip the support elements 105, on which the components 101 can be mounted.

[0113] The gripper frame 1702 can be selectively coupled to the base frame 602. For example, a coupling device or fastening device 602 can be provided on the base frame 602, which selectively couples the base frame for subsequent transport.

[0114] After retracting the rods of the rod unit 1703, the gripper frame 1702 or the base frame 601 of the handling system 600 can be raised or lowered to transport the support elements 105 together with the components 101 to the desired stations. To reinforce the base frame 601, a reinforcement beam 1704 is provided, which can be pivoted about a rotation axis 1705. Fig. 9, the reinforcement beam 1704 is in an open position so that the charging devices 100 can be released and in Fig. 10, the reinforcement beam 1704 is in a closed position. The bars of the bar unit 1703 are coupled to the reinforcement beam 1704 to form a reinforced structure and transport the charging devices 100.

[0115] Fig.11 shows a handling system 600 for handling a functional device. The transport device has a base frame 601, which can be transported along a floor, and a fastening device 602, which is coupled to the base frame 601. The fastening device 602 is designed to selectively fasten the functional device to the base frame 601. The base frame 601 is designed such that the base frame 601 can be used to transport the functional device between a setup location (e.g., the charging stations 2311, 2312 or the storage location 2310), at which the functional device can be selectively fastened to the base frame 601, and a temperature control location in the temperature control device 701 at the temperature control stations 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2401.

[0116] A functional device can be the charging device 100 for supporting components 101 to be tempered, a guide cylinder 801, or a furnace hood 902, 903. In a hood furnace as a tempering device 701, for example, a plurality of different furnace hoods 902, 903 can be placed one above the other. A furnace hood 903 with a larger diameter is placed, for example, over a furnace hood 902 with a smaller diameter, so that the smaller furnace hood 902 is located inside the larger furnace hood 903. The innermost furnace hood 902 can function, for example, as a protective hood, so that a protective gas atmosphere can be created in an inner annealing chamber. Another furnace hood 903, such as a heating hood or a cooling hood, can be placed over the protective hood 902.

[0117] The base frame 601 is formed along a ground plane, with the fastening device 602 being movable perpendicular to the ground plane. The transport device has at least one first guide structure 603, which is fixed to the base frame 601 and extends (at least with one directional component) perpendicular to the ground plane. The fastening device 602 has a first guide carriage 604, which is movably coupled to the first guide structure 603. The first guide carriage 604 can be selectively coupled to the functional device.

[0118] The first guide structure 603 consists, for example, of one or more supports (steel supports) that are fixed to the base frame 601. The supports, for example, simultaneously form guide rails for the first guide carriage 604. For example, the first guide carriage 604 can be movable along a column as a support. In particular, two spaced-apart supports of the first guide structure 603 are provided, on which the first guide carriage 604 is movably arranged.

[0119] The first guide carriage 604 has a controllable fastening element 605, in particular a clamping jaw. The controllable fastening element 605 is adjustable into a release position, in which the functional device is decoupled from the controllable fastening element 605, and into a clamping position, in which the functional device is coupled to the controllable fastening element 605. The controllable fastening element 605 is, for example, a movable clamping jaw or an operable gripping element to implement a selective coupling with the functional unit.

[0120] The second guide structure 606 described below can be configured correspondingly to the first guide structure 603 described above. Accordingly, the further first guide carriages 609, second guide carriage 607, and further second guide carriage 610 described below can be configured correspondingly to the first guide carriage 603 described above.

[0121] The second guide structure 606 is also fixed to the base frame 601 and extends perpendicular to the base plane. The fastening device 602 has a second guide carriage 607, which is movably coupled to the second guide structure 606. The second guide carriage 607 can be selectively coupled to the functional device, wherein the first guide carriage 604 and the second guide carriage 607 are arranged such that the guide carriages 604, 607 are opposite one another with respect to the functional device.

[0122] Furthermore, a further fastening device 608 is provided, which can be moved perpendicular to the ground plane. Along a direction perpendicular to the ground plane, the fastening device 602 and the further fastening device 608 can thus be arranged one after the other or one above the other. In particular, the fastening device 602 and the further fastening device 608 can be moved relative to one another.

[0123] The further fastening device 608 has a further first guide carriage 609, which is movably coupled to the first guide structure 603, wherein the further first guide carriage 609 can be selectively coupled to the functional device or to a further functional device. The further fastening device 608 has a further second guide carriage 610, which is movably coupled to the second guide structure 607. The further second guide carriage 607 can be selectively coupled to the functional device or to the further functional device. The further first guide carriage 609 and the further second guide carriage 610 are arranged such that the further guide carriages 609, 610 are opposite one another with respect to the functional device.

[0124] The further first guide carriage 609 and the further second guide carriage 610 are coupled to each other, for example, by means of reinforcing struts. Thus, the further fastening device 608, or the first guide structure 603 and the second guide structure 606, can be stiffened or reinforced.

[0125] Furthermore, roller elements 612 are arranged on the base frame 601. The roller elements 612 serve to move the base frame 601 along the floor. Accordingly, a coupling with guide rails 2401 can be provided.

[0126] Additionally, it should be noted that "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "one" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features or steps described with reference to one of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps of other embodiments described above. Reference signs in the claims are not to be considered as limitations. List of reference symbols: 100 Charging device 101 Component 102 basic bodies 103 support element 105 support element 107 Access opening 600 handling system 601 base frame 602 fastening device 603 first management structure 604 first guide carriage 605 controllable fastening element 606 second management structure 607 second guide carriage 608 additional fastening devices 609 additional first guide carriage 610 additional second guide carriage 611 additional fastening element 612 roller element 701 Tempering device 801 guide cylinder 902 stove hood 903 additional oven hood 1302 support beams 1701 gripper unit 1702 gripper frame 1703 Staff Unit 1704 reinforcement beams 1705 rotation axis 2301 first temperature control station 2302 second tempering station 2303 third temperature control station 2304 fourth temperature control station 2305 fifth temperature control station 2306 linear array 2307 Control unit 2310 storage space 2311 first charging station 2312 second charging station 2401 sixth temperature control station 2402 guide rails 2501 Hall support 2601 circular arrangement 2602 turntable 2901 further circular arrangement 2902 additional turntable

Claims

[1] Arrangement for heat treating components (101), the arrangement comprising a first tempering station (2301) for heat treating metallic components (101), a second tempering station (2302) for heat-treating metallic components (101), wherein the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302) each have a tempering device (701) on each of which a functional device can be placed, wherein the functional device is a charging device (100) for carrying components (101) to be tempered or a device of the tempering device (701), a charging station (2311) on which the functional device can be placed, and a handling system (600) for handling the functional device, wherein the handling system (600) is configured to transport the functional device between the charging station (2311), the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302), wherein the first tempering station (2301), the second tempering station (2302) and the charging station (2311) are arranged one after the other along a series (2306, 2301), wherein the handling system (600) comprises a transport device comprising a base frame (601) which is transportable along a floor, and a fastening device (602) which is coupled to the base frame (601), wherein the fastening device (602) is designed to fasten the functional device to the base frame (601), wherein the base frame (601) is movable between the first tempering station (2301), the second tempering station (2302) and the charging station, wherein a further functional device can be placed on the temperature control devices (701) of the first temperature control station (2301) and the second temperature control station (2302), wherein the further functional device is a furnace hood (902, 903) or a guide cylinder (801), characterized by that the handling system (600) is configured to transport the further functional device between a setup location, the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302). [2] The arrangement of claim 1, further comprising at least one further, in particular four further, tempering stations (2303, 2304, 2305, 2401) for heat-treating metallic components (101), wherein the further tempering station (2303) has a tempering device (701) in which a functional device can be placed, wherein the handling system (600) is configured to transport the functional device between the at least one charging station (2311) and the tempering stations (2301, 2302). [3] Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one further charging station (2312) on which the functional device can be placed, wherein the handling system (600) is configured to transport the functional device between the charging stations (2311, 2312) and the tempering stations (2301, 2302). [4] Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a storage station (2310) at which the handling system (600) and / or the functional device can be stored, wherein the handling system (600) is configured to transport the functional device between the storage station (2310), the at least one charging station (2311, 2312) and the tempering stations (2301, 2302). [5] Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one charging station (2311, 2312) and the tempering stations (2301, 2302) are arranged next to one another along a linear array (2306), wherein the handling system (600) is configured to be movable parallel to the linear array (2306). [6] Arrangement according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the at least one charging station (2311, 2312) and the tempering stations (2301, 2302) are arranged next to one another along a circular array (2601), wherein the handling system (600) is arranged in the center of the circular array (2601). [7] The arrangement according to claim 6, further comprising a turntable (2602) arranged on a base in the center of the circular array (2601), wherein the handling system (600) is placed in the center on the turntable (2602) such that the handling system (600) can be rotated in its orientation by rotating the turntable (2602). [8] Arrangement according to claim 6 or 7, wherein a first group of the at least one charging station (2311, 2312) and the tempering stations (2301, 2302) are arranged next to one another along the circular array (2601), wherein a second group of temperature control stations (2301', 2302', 2303') are arranged next to one another along a further circular array (2901), wherein the circular array (2601) and the further circular array (2901) overlap, wherein the handling system (600) is arranged such that the handling system (600) is movable, in particular linearly, between the center of the circular array (2601) and a further center of the further circular array (2901). [9] The arrangement of claim 8, further comprising a further turntable (2902) which is arranged on a base in the further center of the further circular array (2901), wherein the handling system (600) can be placed in the further center on the turntable (2902) in such a way that the handling system can be rotated in its orientation by rotating the further turntable (2902). [10] Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a control unit (2307) which is coupled to the handling system (600), the temperature control stations and the at least one charging station, wherein the control unit is configured to automatically control the handling system, the temperature control stations (2301, 2302) and the at least one charging station (2311, 2312). [11] Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the base frame (601) is formed along a base plane, wherein the fastening device (602) is movable perpendicularly or parallel to a base plane. [12] Arrangement according to claim 11, wherein the transport device has at least a first guide structure (603) which is fixed to the base frame (601) and extends perpendicular to the base plane, wherein the fastening device (602) has a first guide carriage (604) which is movably coupled to the first guide structure (603), wherein the first guide carriage (604) is coupleable to the functional device. [13] Arrangement according to claim 12, wherein the first guide carriage (604) has a controllable fastening element (605), in particular a clamping jaw, wherein the controllable fastening element (605) is adjustable into a release position in which the functional device is decoupled from the controllable fastening element (605), and is adjustable into a clamping position in which the functional device is coupled to the controllable fastening element (605). [14] Arrangement according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the transport device has at least one second guide structure (606) which is fixed to the base frame (601) and extends perpendicular to the base plane, wherein the fastening device (602) has a second guide carriage (607) which is movably coupled to the second guide structure (606), wherein the second guide carriage (607) can be coupled to the functional device, wherein the first guide carriage (604) and the second guide carriage (607) are arranged such that the guide carriages (604, 607) are opposite one another with respect to the functional device. [15] Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the transport device has a further fastening device (608), wherein the further fastening device (608) is movable perpendicular to the base plane. [16] Arrangement according to claim 15, wherein the further fastening device (608) has a further first guide carriage (609) which is movably coupled to the first guide structure (603), wherein the further first guide carriage (609) can be coupled to the functional device or to the further functional device. [17] Arrangement according to claim 16, wherein the further fastening device (608) has a further second guide carriage (610) which is movably coupled to the second guide structure (606), wherein the further second guide carriage (610) can be coupled to the functional device or the further functional device, wherein the further first guide carriage (609) and the further second guide carriage (610) are arranged such that the further guide carriages (609, 610) are opposite one another with respect to the functional device. [18] Arrangement according to claim 17, further comprising the further functional device, which is designed as a device of the tempering device, in particular as a guide cylinder (801) and / or as a furnace hood (902, 903), wherein the further functional device can be coupled to the further fastening device (608), wherein the functional device can be moved relative to one another by means of the fastening device and the further functional device can be moved by means of the further fastening device. [19] Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the functional device forms a gripper unit (1701) to which a component (101) can be coupled, wherein the gripper unit (1701) can be fastened to the base frame (601) by means of the fastening device (602). [20] Arrangement according to claim 19, wherein the gripper unit (1701) comprises a gripper frame (1702) and a rod unit (1703) with a plurality of, in particular mutually parallel, rods, wherein the rod unit (1703) is designed to be movable relative to the gripper frame (1702) and / or together with the gripper frame (1702) relative to the base frame (601) such that the rods can be inserted into engagement openings (107) of support elements (105) on which the metallic components (101) can be placed, in order to transport the support elements (105). [21] Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the transport device comprises a rail guide element and a guide rail, whereby the guide rail can be fixed to a floor, wherein the rail guide element is coupled to the base frame (601) and can be coupled to the guide rail such that the base frame (601) can be moved along the guide rail. [22] Method for heat treating components (101), the method comprising Heat treatment of metallic components (101) in a first tempering station (2301), Heat treatment of metallic components (101) in a second tempering station (2302), wherein the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302) each have a tempering device (701) on which a functional device can be placed, wherein the functional device is a charging device (100) for carrying components (101) to be tempered or a device of the tempering device (701), Placing the functional device on a charging station (2311), and Handling the functional device by means of a handling system (600), wherein the handling system (600) is configured to transport the functional device between the charging station (2311), the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302), wherein the handling system (600) comprises a transport device comprising a base frame (601) which is transportable along a floor, and a fastening device (602) which is coupled to the base frame (601), wherein the fastening device (602) is designed to fasten the functional device to the base frame (601), wherein the base frame (601) is movable between the first tempering station (2301), the second tempering station (2302) and the charging station, wherein a further functional device can be placed on the temperature control devices (701) of the first temperature control station (2301) and the second temperature control station (2302), wherein the further functional device is a furnace hood (902, 903) or a guide cylinder (801), characterized by that the handling system (600) is configured to transport the further functional device between a setup location, the first tempering station (2301) and the second tempering station (2302).

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