Sorting device for bulk goods

Abstract

Sorting device for bulk goods, comprising - a feeding device (2) with at least one first guide device (3) for feeding the bulk parts into a sorting machine (4), - a transport device (9) for transporting the bulk parts through the sorting machine (4), - at least one second guide device (14) for positioning the bulk parts on the transport device (9), - a device (30) arranged in the direction of transport behind the second guide device (14) for detecting individual or different parameters of the bulk material parts on a section of the transport device (9), - a device (22, 26) for discharging the bulk material parts from the transport device (9) into a collection container (23), characterized in that - at least one adjusting unit (12) for moving the respective device (3, 14, 22, 26, 30) in at least one vertical direction, one horizontal direction and / or about an axis of rotation is arranged at least on the first and second guide device (3, 14), on the device (30) for detecting individual or different parameters and on the device (22, 26) for dispensing. - at least one control unit (5) for controlling the adjustment units (12) and for triggering the movement of the respective devices (3, 14, 22, 26, 30) coupled to the adjustment units is arranged in a position specified by the control unit (5).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a sorting device for bulk parts according to the preamble of claim 1 and a method for setting up and controlling a sorting device for bulk parts according to the preamble of claim 12.

[0002] Sorting devices of the aforementioned type are used for inspecting and sorting components, particularly those manufactured in high volumes, such as screws, nuts, etc. US 2010 / 0 278 417 A1, for example, describes a sorting machine for fasteners. These sorting devices are becoming increasingly important in modern production processes as customer demands regarding the defect rate steadily rise. At the same time, however, there is a requirement to keep quality assurance costs as low as possible. A significant cost factor in quality assurance using automated sorting machines is the personnel costs for operators and setup technicians. Currently, when repeatedly setting up and reconfiguring the sorting device for a different item, various mechanical components must be manually adjusted to the new item to ensure optimal feeding of the items through the machine.Depending on the extent of the change, this requires the continuous work of an employee specializing in machine setup for up to 60 minutes.

[0003] Another problem arises during the ongoing operation of the sorting system, as malfunctions can occur, for example, due to bulk material accumulating in the guide rails. This necessitates continuous monitoring of the sorting system by an operator. To clear the material jam, it is also necessary to release mechanical components. These components then need to be repositioned. Finally, the throughput must be continuously optimized by manually adjusting the position of individual components.

[0004] The invention is therefore based on the objective of proposing a sorting device and a method that enable fast changeover times and low personnel costs for operating the sorting device.

[0005] The invention solves the problem by means of a sorting device for bulk parts according to claim 1 and a method for setting up and controlling a sorting device according to claim 12. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims. All described features, individually or in any combination, are fundamentally the subject matter of the invention, irrespective of their grouping in the claims or their cross-references.

[0006] The sorting device for bulk parts according to the invention comprises at least one feeding device with at least one first guide device for feeding the bulk parts into a sorting machine, a transport device for transporting the bulk parts through the sorting machine, at least one second guide device for positioning the bulk parts on the transport device, a device arranged downstream of the second guide devices in the transport direction for detecting individual or different parameters of the bulk parts on a section of the transport device, and a device for discharging the bulk parts from the transport device into a collection container, wherein at least on the first and second guide devices,The device for acquiring individual or various parameters and the device for dispensing each have at least one adjusting unit for moving the respective device or a device section in at least one vertical direction, one horizontal direction and / or about an axis of rotation, and at least one control unit is arranged which is designed to control the adjusting units and to trigger the movement of the respective devices coupled to the adjusting units into a position specified by the control unit.

[0007] Essential to the invention is the arrangement of the adjustment units on all components of the sorting device, which must be individually adjusted for the flow of parts through the sorting device. The adjustment units mentioned so far and described below are fundamentally motor-driven units. These preferably comprise an electric motor, in particular a servo motor, and a linear guide. They can also include, for example, a gearbox and a brake to enable particularly precise control of the movement they generate. The adjustment units can be controlled by the control unit(s) to move the device or component connected to each adjustment unit in a horizontal direction and / or a vertical direction and / or around a rotational axis. Naturally, combined movement paths of the individual devices via the adjustment units are also possible.Preferably, an adjustment unit is arranged for each direction of movement to be generated. An adjustment unit for generating the different directions of movement can also comprise several actuators, e.g., units consisting of a motor (especially electric motors) and linear guide, and optionally also a gearbox and brake.

[0008] The adjustment units are all coupled to a control unit and can be controlled by it accordingly; that is, they can be activated to initiate movement of the connected device and deactivated to stop the movement. Preferably, all adjustment units are connected to the same control unit. The control unit can be, for example, a computer with appropriate control software, a PLC, or similar, and may include an operator interface. The connection between the control unit(s) and the adjustment units can be wired, but is preferably wireless. Accordingly, the control unit and the adjustment units can be configured for wireless communication with each other.

[0009] Controlling the control unit refers to the control unit's access to the adjustment unit. This can include data and / or signal exchange between the control unit and the adjustment unit. The control unit can directly control the adjustment units, meaning it can directly control the existing actuators / motors. Alternatively, each adjustment unit may comprise one or more of its own control components (control unit, PLC, and / or controller, etc.) that are controlled by the control unit and then control the respective actuators / motors of the associated adjustment unit.

[0010] A guiding device is understood to be a device along which the individual bulk material parts slide. The guiding device can be designed to be movable as a whole by means of the adjustment units and / or have individual components, such as guide elements, along which the bulk material parts are guided and which are movable by means of the adjustment units.

[0011] A feeding device is understood to be, in particular, a vibratory feeder into which the bulk materials are placed and separated and, if necessary, aligned by means of generated vibrations along a guide rail that runs spirally along an outer wall. From the spirally arranged guide rail, the bulk materials are transported to the sorting machine, for example, via a first feed conveyor belt for transporting the separated bulk materials. The feed conveyor belt can be designed as a first guide device or at least include a first guide device that is individually adjusted for the respective bulk materials. In addition, individually adjustable guide devices equipped with an adjustment unit can also be arranged in the area of ​​the vibratory feeder; these can be, for example, associated with the spiral guide rail.

[0012] A storage hopper for bulk materials can be installed upstream of the vibratory conveyor. From this hopper, the bulk materials are transferred either in batches or continuously, for example, in a quantity / time controlled manner, into the vibratory conveyor or another type of conveyor. The storage hopper advantageously has its own feed device, such as a chute for the bulk materials with a flap to control the feed rate. The feed device advantageously includes an adjustment unit coupled to the control unit, which can be controlled by it. Furthermore, the storage hopper and / or the vibratory conveyor preferably includes a fill level sensor that detects the quantity of bulk materials being fed into the vibratory conveyor and / or the storage hopper. The fill level sensor can preferably also be connected to the control unit and configured to transmit fill level signals to the control unit.

[0013] Bulk parts are defined as components, especially small parts, that are manufactured in large quantities. Typical bulk parts include screws, nuts, and washers.

[0014] The individual bulk items are transferred from the feeding device to a transport device in the sorting machine. The transport devices can be designed in various ways, for example, as a conveyor belt or conveyor chain. Particularly preferably, the transport device is disc- or ring-shaped (hereinafter referred to simply as disc-shaped), especially as a glass plate or glass ring (hereinafter referred to simply as glass plate), which is arranged to rotate for transporting the bulk items, e.g., rotating around a pivot axis. The glass plate is preferably transparent (clear glass). The disc-shaped transport device, in particular the glass plate, is preferably arranged in individual clamping stations, which serve as drive, support, and holding devices and rotate the disc-shaped transport device by means of drive rollers attached to the transport device.The bulk materials coming from the feeding device are placed on the moving, for example, rotating, transport device. For later picking up of the bulk materials, it is advantageous if they rest in a precisely predetermined position on the transport device. The second guide device is arranged to set such a position. The individual bulk materials picked up by the transport device are moved by the transport device towards the second guide device and shifted by it into their correct position on the transport device.

[0015] Depending on the type of bulk material being transported, the disc-shaped transport device may include additional holding devices. For example, the disc-shaped transport device may include a holding device for the bulk material, such as saw-blade-like recesses on its outer edges and / or holding devices on its upper and / or lower surface, which hold or fix the individual bulk material in a predetermined position, such as a device for fixing an upside-down screw. A particularly advantageous embodiment of the disc-shaped transport device provides for the holding device to be designed as a tool holder, with which the held bulk material can be moved on the disc-shaped transport device, for example, rotated and / or pivoted about a longitudinal axis of the bulk material. For example,A tool holder in the area of ​​the saw blade-like recesses is particularly advantageous, by means of which the fixed and hanging screws can be rotated about their longitudinal axis.

[0016] The second guiding device preferably comprises a side guide element and an inner guide element for positioning the bulk goods on the transport device, both guide elements being equipped with an adjustment unit designed for control by a control unit. The two guide elements of the second guiding device can be moved via the adjustment units, particularly parallel to the transport surface of the transport device and in a transverse or radial direction to the transport surface. Furthermore, an automatic height adjustment can be provided via the adjustment units, so that the distance of the guide elements to the transport surface of the transport device can also be automatically adjusted.

[0017] After precise positioning, the individual bulk parts are transported to a device for capturing one or more parameters. Depending on its design, the capturing device records one or more parameters of each bulk part. For example, the device can be a scanner that scans the external shape of the bulk part, specific sections such as individual edges, punch marks, cut surfaces, and / or the surface finish of the bulk part. The captured parameters are preferably subjected to a target / actual comparison. This can be performed by the capturing device itself or, for example, via the integrated control unit. The target / actual comparison, performed by the device or the control unit, determines whether the scanned part meets the requirements. Of course, further categorizations are also possible, if necessary.To ensure the most accurate possible detection of the bulk parts, it is necessary that the bulk parts are positioned as precisely as possible by the second guide device.

[0018] The device for capturing individual or various parameters of bulk materials preferably comprises an optical camera with an adjustment unit designed for control by a control unit. The optical camera generates an image of each individual bulk material. Based on this image, for example, a target / actual comparison is used to assess whether the bulk material meets the necessary requirements. The evaluation and assessment can be performed by the capturing device, or alternatively or additionally, for example, by the control unit, which receives corresponding acquisition data from the capturing device and also has access to the actual data. The at least one adjustment unit moves the camera to a position adapted to the respective bulk material.The at least one adjustment unit is specifically designed to move the camera horizontally, vertically, and rotatably about a rotational axis. Preferably, the detection device is associated with at least one lighting module, which includes at least one adjustment unit designed for control by the control unit. The lighting module is arranged, in particular, to illuminate the conveyor belt section on which the bulk material rests at the time of detection (trigger point). For this purpose, the lighting module can be adjusted to the respective bulk material in different directions via the adjustment unit. An LED module is preferably used as the lighting module. The lighting module, or at least one of the associated lighting modules, is preferably arranged on the side of the conveyor opposite the detection device.

[0019] According to a further development of the invention, the detection device comprises a camera station with at least two cameras aligned to the same trigger point but offset from each other. The camera station and / or the cameras include adjustment units for control by a control unit. The cameras are thus both aligned to the same conveyor belt section or to the bulk material lying on the conveyor belt section and detect the respective bulk material simultaneously. Due to the offset, the bulk material is detected from two different perspectives. For this purpose, the cameras can preferably be arranged on opposite sides of the transport device. In addition to the opposite arrangement, an arrangement of the cameras at an angle α between 25° and 160°, particularly 45° or 90°, is preferred.When at least two cameras are arranged, both cameras can, for example, be designed as optical cameras to capture an image of the bulk material.

[0020] Naturally, the camera station can also have more than two cameras, provided that all cameras are aligned to the same trigger point and simultaneously capture the respective bulk item. Each camera station can also have one or more lighting units, each illuminating the transport section in the area of ​​the trigger point. Both the cameras and the lighting unit(s) are each equipped with at least one adjustment device, controllable via the control unit, to move the cameras and the lighting unit within the sorting machine and adapt them to the respective bulk items.

[0021] Naturally, in the transport direction, not only a single camera with its associated lighting module, but also multiple cameras can be arranged in series. Complete camera stations can also be arranged sequentially in the transport direction, for example, if different or a large number of parameters need to be recorded. All cameras and associated lighting modules have corresponding adjustment units to move them horizontally, vertically, and / or around a rotational axis. If the cameras of a camera station and, if applicable, the lighting elements are designed as a single assembly, it is also possible, for example, to alternatively or additionally arrange adjustment devices controlled by the control unit to adjust the entire camera station.

[0022] In order to trigger the detection device precisely when the individual bulk material is located in the area of ​​the trigger point, a sensor unit for triggering the detection device, in particular at least one camera image, is arranged according to a further development of the invention, wherein the sensor unit comprises at least one adjustment unit designed for control by a control unit.

[0023] Particularly when several cameras are arranged and aligned to the same trigger point, the sensor unit is coupled to all cameras to ensure simultaneous triggering. The sensor unit comprises, in particular, a laser sensor for detecting the bulk material and at least one adjustment unit controllable by the control unit, with which the sensor unit can be moved into a position adapted to the respective bulk material. The at least one adjustment unit is preferably designed to move the sensor unit, in particular one sensor of the sensor unit, in a horizontal and / or vertical direction.

[0024] After being picked up, the bulk materials are transported on the conveyor system to the discharge device. Several discharge devices can be arranged sequentially in the direction of transport.

[0025] According to the categorization by the detection device or the control unit, the bulk material parts are conveyed from the transport device down into, for example, a collection container by means of the discharge device. This can be accomplished, for example, by a sliding element that has at least one adjustment unit designed for control by a control unit. However, the discharge device preferably comprises an air nozzle guide element with at least one adjustment unit designed for control by a control unit. The air nozzle guide element conveys the bulk material part down from the transport device into, for example, the collection container by means of a blast of air. Depending on the number of discharge devices, several air nozzle elements can also be arranged one behind the other in the transport direction, particularly with each one associated collection container. As the last device, or...When only a single dispensing device is used, a guide plate is preferably arranged to direct previously undispensed bulk material parts away from the transport device.

[0026] Each detection device, in particular each air nozzle element and each guide plate, has one or more adjustment units that can be controlled by the control unit. The dispensing device or individual components thereof can be moved by means of these adjustment units, particularly in the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0027] Due to the bulk goods transported on the conveyor device, the conveyor surface can become contaminated, which, for example, impairs the conveying of the bulk goods. Particularly in sorting devices with a conveyor designed as a glass plate, such as glass rotary table systems, contamination of the glass plate can impair the detection or illumination of the conveyor belt surface, thus compromising reliable quality control of the individual bulk goods. To simplify the previously common manual cleaning, which usually also requires stopping the conveyor device, a further development of the invention provides a cleaning device for automatically cleaning the conveyor device, which includes at least one adjustment unit designed for control by a control unit.The adjustment unit is designed to move the cleaning device and can, for example, include a cleaning body for collecting the existing dirt, which is moved towards the transport surface by means of this movement. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning body itself can also include at least one adjustment unit by means of which the cleaning body is moved against the transport surface.

[0028] The cleaning element is designed, for example, as a wiping device with a suitably soft surface for wiping or brushing the conveyor belt surface, similar to a cleaning cloth. The cleaning element is preferably moved against the conveyor surface during operation of the conveyor device, so that the moving conveyor surface moves along the cleaning element, causing the dirt to adhere to it. Particularly in the case of a conveyor device designed as a glass plate, the cleaning element can be configured to contact both the upper conveyor surface and the reverse side opposite the upper surface.The cleaning body can either have two contact surfaces that, for example, simultaneously rest on the top and bottom, or it can be moved via the adjustment units so that the top and bottom are cleaned in two successive cleaning processes.

[0029] Both the at least one adjustment unit for moving the cleaning system and the at least one adjustment unit for moving the cleaning body are designed to be controlled by a control unit.

[0030] To further simplify the retooling of the sorting device, a device for recognizing the parameters of individual bulk parts is provided according to a further development of the invention. This device is designed to compare the detected parameters with parameters of already known bulk parts stored in a database, assign them to a known bulk part, and retrieve the position data of the adjustment units stored for the known bulk parts and make them available to the control unit. The comparison of the detected parameters, like the assignment of the detected parameters to a known bulk part, can be carried out with the aid of the control unit. A connection for data transmission thus exists between the detection device and the control unit.

[0031] The detection device can be designed as a separate unit. It is located upstream of the feeding device and, if applicable, also upstream of a storage hopper for the bulk parts. The detection device can be, for example, an optical camera for generating an image, a scanner (especially for scanning a code), or a 3D scanner.

[0032] In order to sort previously unknown bulk goods parts particularly easily and safely using the sorting device, an identification device for an initial recording of parameters of individual bulk goods parts is arranged according to a further development of the invention, wherein the identification device is designed to create the predetermined position of the adjustment units based on the recorded parameters.The identification device is thus designed to determine various parameters of individual bulk goods, in particular their geometric shapes and dimensions, weight, and / or surface finish. Based on these parameters, it calculates the optimal positions of the devices and components of the sorting system that can be moved by the adjustment mechanisms and provides this information to the control unit. This allows the control unit to actuate the adjustment units accordingly and position the respective devices and components before the sorting process begins. The identification device is specifically designed as a 3D scanner. For example, the detection device can also be configured as an identification device. A computer unit can be arranged for calculating the respective positions, or a computer unit of the control unit can be used for this purpose.The identification device is preferably designed as a separate device. The identification process can be carried out separately from the sorting process. However, the identification device is designed for data exchange with the control unit, at least for providing the determined parameters.

[0033] Furthermore, the problem underlying the invention is solved by a method for the fully automatic setup and control of a sorting device with the features of claim 12.

[0034] The inventive method for setting up and controlling the sorting device for bulk parts described above comprises at least the following steps: determining parameters of the bulk parts to be sorted, assigning the bulk parts to be sorted to a known bulk part based on the determined parameters, retrieving position data of the adjustment units assigned to the known bulk parts, controlling the adjustment units of at least the first and second guide devices, the device for detecting individual or different parameters and the devices for dispensing by means of the control unit and triggering the movement of the respective device coupled to the adjustment units into a position to be taken from the position data.

[0035] The inventive method enables particularly simple setup of the sorting device for bulk parts when changing parts. With this method, when changing the bulk parts to be sorted, all components / devices of the sorting device that need to be adjusted to the new bulk parts are automatically moved to a predefined position that is tailored to the parts being sorted. This significantly reduces changeover time, as the adjustment of the individual components is performed automatically via the motorized adjustment units and thus no longer requires manual intervention. Furthermore, the setup can also be carried out by less qualified personnel, since the necessary position data for the respective devices and components is already stored in a database and only needs to be retrieved.

[0036] In this context, parameter determination can be understood as meaning that the parameters for the bulk parts to be sorted are known and, for example, entered into a corresponding control unit by an operator. Alternatively, the parameters can also be determined, for example, via a recognition device. This recognition device can be designed, for example, as a scanner, so that either the bulk parts themselves are scanned, for example using a 3D scanner, or a code or marking corresponding to the bulk parts is scanned.

[0037] After determining the parameters, these are compared with parameters of known bulk materials so that the bulk materials to be sorted can be matched to known bulk materials. Corresponding position data for the adjustment units of the known bulk materials are stored in a database, which is then retrieved and provided to the control unit. Subsequently, the adjustment units are activated, resulting in the automatic movement of at least the first and second guide devices, the detection device, and the discharge device. It should be noted that "moving the respective device" does not necessarily mean that the entire device is moved, but also refers to movements of individual components of the device that are relevant to the sorting process of the respective bulk material.Once all devices / components have been moved into the adjusted position, the sorting process can be started.

[0038] The parameters preferably used are the geometry, i.e., the shape and dimensions of the bulk item, the surface finish, the material, and / or the weight of the individual bulk items. Alternatively, a marker or code assigned to the bulk items to be sorted can also be used as a parameter.

[0039] During operation of the sorting system, minor differences between bulk parts from different batches, such as in dimensions or surface finish, or contamination of the parts or the sorting system itself, can lead to reduced throughput speeds. This necessitates continuous adjustments, such as modifying the transport speed in the infeed device or the transport mechanism within the sorting machine. Furthermore, the individual guide devices often require adjustment to ensure smoother or more controlled throughput of the bulk parts. This process is currently performed manually and requires constant monitoring by a highly qualified operator.To achieve optimization, a further development of the invention provides that the actual throughput of the bulk goods is determined and compared with a stored target throughput, for example, automatically by the control unit. In case of a deviation, an optimization circuit is executed to adjust the actual throughput to the target throughput. Due to the full automation of the individual components / devices by means of the adjustment units, this optimization circuit can be performed automatically without manual intervention by an operator and is therefore particularly cost-efficient. The adjustment of the actual throughput is achieved in particular by adjusting the positions of the guide devices using the adjustment units. Depending on the structural design of the sorting device, the optimization circuit can also adjust the feed device, in particular the conveyor, or...Vibratory conveyors, including the filled quantity of bulk material, whereby, for example, the adjustment units on the feed device of the bulk material bunker can be controlled accordingly by the control unit.

[0040] A second, additionally or alternatively feasible, advantageous optimization circuit, which is carried out in the event of a deviation from the target throughput, comprises an increase in the transport speed of the bulk parts in the feed device and / or in the transport device, which can also be triggered by the control device.

[0041] Besides affecting the throughput speed, the sorting system is also frequently subject to malfunctions, for example, caused by blocked bulk materials. Such blockages can be caused by the aforementioned minor deviations of individual bulk materials from the target geometry or by excessive contamination. These malfunctions typically occur in the area of ​​the guide devices. To rectify the malfunctions, the sorting system was usually stopped, and the operator had to manually remove the bulk materials in the affected area. The guide devices, which had been detached for this purpose, then had to be repositioned.For particularly simple troubleshooting, the invention provides that the actual throughput is determined and, if a predefined threshold is undershot, a troubleshooting circuit is triggered. In this circuit, at least the first guide device and / or the second guide device, and optionally further or all guide devices, are moved by means of the adjustment units into an open position, allowing the bulk material parts maximum freedom of movement along the transport path. Opening the guide devices releases the jammed bulk material parts, which then fall off. The guide devices can then be moved back into their predefined position using the adjustment units. The entire troubleshooting circuit can be triggered and executed automatically by the control unit. No operator intervention is required.Furthermore, it is usually not necessary to stop the transport of the bulk goods through the sorting device; the fault correction circuit can be carried out during operation.

[0042] To determine the actual throughput, appropriate sensors, for example for counting the passing bulk material, are arranged. The device thus has at least one sensor in the area behind the device for detecting the bulk material or in the area behind the device for discharging it. Preferably, however, corresponding sensors are arranged at several positions in the sorting device. In particular, corresponding sensors can be arranged in the transport direction behind each guide device, in the transport direction behind the device for detecting, in the transport direction behind the device for discharging, and in the transport direction behind the feed device.In the interference suppression circuit, the actual throughput at each sensor can be compared with a target throughput specific to that sensor. This allows the interference suppression circuit to be limited to one or a few assemblies / devices. In this case, for example, the control unit can actuate the adjustment units only in the relevant area (locally), and the guide device(s) or guide element(s) can be moved to the open position where a missing throughput was detected. With a suitable arrangement of the counting sensors, the optimization circuit can also be implemented locally in a similar manner.

[0043] In addition to the optimization circuits and the fault suppression circuit, further monitoring methods can be implemented with the inventive sorting device. According to a first advantageous monitoring circuit, the quantity of bulk parts being fed into the hopper is monitored by means of a fill quantity sensor arranged on the feed device or a storage hopper. The fill quantity sensor detects the quantity of bulk parts present in the storage hopper and sends a corresponding signal, for example, to the control unit. The control unit compares the detected actual fill quantity with a minimum target fill quantity stored in a database. As soon as this minimum is undershot, the control unit sends a corresponding signal, for example, to the operators responsible for loading the storage hopper, to initiate the timely provision of additional bulk parts and their filling of the storage hopper.In a supplementary configuration, the signal triggers the fully automated provision of the respective bulk materials and, if necessary, also the fully automated filling of the storage bunker. The fill level sensor can, of course, also include an adjustment unit controllable by the control unit for moving the fill level sensor. Similarly, the control unit can also use the signal from the fill level sensor to initiate material removal in the area of ​​the dispensing devices.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally, at least one level sensor can also be arranged on the dispensing device(s) which determines the fill level of bulk material in the dispensing devices and sends a corresponding signal to the control unit in order to initiate the refilling of the storage bunkers and / or the removal of the sorted bulk material in accordance with the above description.

[0045] To enable the sorting of new bulk parts—i.e., bulk parts that have not previously been sorted by the sorting device and for which no parameters are available—in a particularly simple manner, a further development of the invention provides an identification device for the initial acquisition of parameters of the new bulk parts. Before determining the parameters of at least one of the new bulk parts, preferably several, are individually arranged in the identification device, and all parameters of the individual bulk parts relevant for sorting are acquired by the identification device. Subsequently, position data for the adjustment units are calculated or generated based on the acquired parameters and stored together with the parameters, for example, in a memory unit.The stored parameters with the position data can be retrieved for setting up the device, i.e., when determining the parameters.

[0046] In particular, the surface of the transport device, i.e., the transport surface, is subject to increased wear and tear and contamination, for example, by impurities that are transferred to the transport surface by the bulk goods. For this reason, regular cleaning of the transport surface and, at appropriate intervals, replacement of the transport surface, e.g., of a transport element that includes the transport surface, are necessary.

[0047] To monitor the condition of the transport surface, a device coupled to the control unit is arranged for functional testing of the transport surface. This device includes, in particular, at least one adjustment unit controllable by the control unit for moving the device in at least one vertical direction, one horizontal direction, and / or about a rotational axis. The functional testing device can, for example, be designed as a scanning device that scans the transport surface and thus detects corresponding wear or contamination. The device can also be designed as an optical camera. When the transport device is designed as a glass turntable, the functional testing device is specifically designed as an X-ray device. It can be moved by means of the adjustment units, as described above.In particular, the functional check is performed automatically at regular intervals and can be triggered and carried out, for example, by appropriately controlling the device for functional testing via the control unit.

[0048] To enable particularly easy cleaning of the conveyor surface, a further development of the invention provides for the determination of the degree of soiling of the conveyor surface, particularly by means of the functional testing device. If the determined degree of soiling exceeds a predetermined limit, the conveyor belt surface is cleaned. Cleaning is carried out, in particular, by wiping or scraping the conveyor surface. Preferably, a cleaning element of a cleaning device is moved along the conveyor surface for cleaning, wherein the cleaning element is moved to the conveyor surface by means of an adjustment unit controllable by the control unit. The cleaning element is brought into contact with the conveyor surface, for example, when the conveyor device is activated.The transport device is activated after the cleaning body is positioned, so that the moving transport surface scrapes along the cleaning body. Both the cleaning body and the attached cleaning device can each be equipped with one or more adjustment units, which can be controlled via the control unit and cause movement of the cleaning device or the cleaning body, respectively.

[0049] In a glass plate rotary transport system with a glass plate-shaped transport device, it is necessary to replace the glass plate at certain intervals due to wear, as previously mentioned. The glass plate is supported by several clamping stations and held in place by them. A further problem when replacing the glass plate is that it extends through large sections of the sorting machine, requiring the disassembly of several other components, such as the picking and ejection devices, to remove the glass plate from the clamping stations.To significantly simplify the replacement of the glass plate, a further development of the invention provides that the transport device comprises clamping stations that are movable and openable by means of adjustment units. For replacing the transport device, at least the second guide device, the gripping device, the ejecting device, and the clamping stations that can be opened are moved by means of the respective adjustment units into an exchange position in which the transport device can be removed from the clamping stations and a new transport device can be mounted. The glass plate can then be removed manually, and a new transport device, e.g., another glass plate, can also be placed on top manually.In the exchange position, the aforementioned devices and any other components that may obstruct the removal of the glass plate in its operating position are moved or pivoted away from the glass plate by means of adjustment units, and the clamping stations are opened, so that at least a largely vertical removal of the glass plate from the clamping stations is possible. After the exchange, the moved devices and components are returned to an operating position by means of the adjustment units, and the glass plate is clamped in the clamping stations. The transport device described here as an example of a glass plate can, of course, also comprise a different material, e.g., metal or plastic, and be designed as a metal disc, metal ring (i.e., a metal plate), or as a plastic disc, plastic ring (i.e., a plastic disc).

[0050] According to a further development of the invention, the at least one control unit is designed for external access, wherein, in particular, the setup of the sorting device, monitoring of operation, execution of the optimization circuit, execution of the fault correction circuit, execution of the functional test, and / or cleaning of the conveyor belt surface are carried out remotely. Remote access is preferably achieved via an external control unit, e.g., a computer, by means of which the control unit of the sorting device (internal control unit) can be controlled. Remote access is therefore achieved, for example, via a remote desktop connection between the two control units, preferably using remote maintenance software that runs on the external and internal control units and / or is coupled via appropriate connections such as VPN or similar.The advantage is that the sorting device remains a self-contained unit, i.e., it continues to be controlled by its own internal control unit, and remote access via the external control unit directly to the internal control unit.

[0051] During the sorting process, typically only a few of the measurable parameters are defined as relevant for sorting, i.e., as primarily process-relevant. For example, when inspecting screws in a sorting process, it is common practice to check the dimensions and, if applicable, the external shape of the screws as the primary process-relevant parameters and to sort the screws into good and bad based on these two parameters. Other parameters that may not be relevant for sorting the screws (secondarily process-relevant), such as the completeness of the surface coating or the presence of burrs, etc., are not considered in the good / bad sorting. Which parameters are primarily process-relevant and which are not is determined before the sorting process. This can be done, for example, manually by the operator or based on predefined test scenarios that are automatically called up after the bulk item has been identified.

[0052] Even if the sorting process is independent of the secondary process parameters, these parameters can still be relevant for the use of the respective bulk parts. Especially in the case of frequently occurring errors, appropriate feedback is important for both the producer of the bulk parts and a corresponding warning for the customer to ensure the quality of the bulk parts. Therefore, it is advantageous to record secondary process parameters in addition to the primary process parameters. The recording of secondary process parameters can be carried out either by the device used to record the primary process parameters or by at least one additional device, which, for example, is located in the sorting machine and coupled to the control unit.The at least one additional device can also have corresponding adjustment units that can be controlled by the control unit. Preferably, the recorded secondary process parameters are evaluated and / or stored by the control unit and made available to the operator. Preferably, a warning signal or a warning message is also provided, for example, to an operator or the recipient of the bulk parts, if a predetermined error rate is exceeded.

[0053] The invention will now be described in more detail using several exemplary embodiments. These show Fig. 1 schematically in a top view a sorting device for bulk goods parts; Fig. 2. A schematic view of a section of a sorting machine in perspective; Fig. 3 schematically depicts the sorting machine in a top view Fig. 2.

[0054] Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a top view of a sorting device 1 for bulk parts (not shown here) with a feeding device 2, which includes a feed conveyor 29 with a first guide device 3 for feeding the bulk parts into a sorting machine 4. The sorting machine 4 is connected to a control unit 5. The control unit 5 also has an operating terminal for the operator. A packaging system 6 for packaging the sorted bulk parts and a discharge system 7 for the packaged bulk parts are connected to the sorting machine 4. A storage hopper 8 is also located upstream of the feeding device 2, into which the bulk parts to be sorted are placed.

[0055] After setting up and positioning the individual devices and components of the sorting device 1, the bulk parts are transferred from the storage hopper 8 to the feeding device 2 during operation. This can be done, for example, by means of a metering slide (not shown here) in the storage hopper 8, which is movable, in particular, via an adjustment unit 12 (not shown here) controlled by the control unit 5. From the storage hopper 8 to the feeding device 2, the bulk parts are transferred in bulk. In the feeding device 2, which here is designed as a vibratory conveyor, the bulk parts are conveyed on a guide rail (not shown here) towards the sorting machine 4 and are individually aligned in the process. From the guide rail, the individually aligned bulk parts are transferred to the first guide device 3 and from there transported into the sorting machine 4.The bulk parts are then transferred from the feed conveyor belt 29 onto a transport device 9 (see . Fig. 2 and Fig. 3) are deposited and transported along a conveyor belt through the sorting machine 4 towards the packaging system 6. In the sorting machine 4, the bulk parts are detected, inspected, evaluated, and sorted, for example, into defective and non-defective bulk parts. The sorted bulk parts are then packaged in the packaging system 6 and transported away via the discharge system.

[0056] Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows a section of the sorting machine 4 in a perspective view, whereas in Fig. 3 of the sorting machine 4 out Fig.Figure 2 is shown schematically in a top view. The sorting machine 4 has the transport device 9. The transport device 9 comprises a glass plate 10 (here a glass ring). The glass plate 10 is supported by three clamping stations 11, at least one of which is also designed as a drive device and rotates the glass plate 10 clockwise in the embodiment shown here.

[0057] Each of the clamping stations 11 is equipped with several adjustment units 12 (not shown here) designed to open and pivot the clamping stations 11 and controlled by the control unit 5. The bulk parts (not shown here) are placed in an entry area 13 on the transport surface 15. A second guide device 14 is arranged downstream in the transport direction, comprising a side guide element 16 and an inner guide element 17. Adjustment units 12 (not shown here) are arranged on both guide elements 16 and 17, by means of which the two guide elements can be moved both vertically V (indicated by an arrow) and horizontally H (indicated by arrows). The bulk parts transported on the transport device 9 are prevented from falling off the transport direction 9 by the two guide elements (side guide elements).here aligned in the middle on the transport device 9.

[0058] In the transport direction, a device 30 for capturing images with a camera station 18, which has two optical cameras 19, 20, is shown. Both cameras 19, 20 are aligned with the same trigger point 21 and are offset from each other, here at a 90° angle. Also present, but not shown, is a sensor unit for triggering a camera image. The sensor unit is connected to the cameras 19, 20 and also has adjustment units 12 for moving the sensor unit in different spatial directions, in particular vertically and horizontally. A lighting module 27 is also assigned to the camera station 18, which illuminates the transport device 9 in the area of ​​the trigger point 21 in a manner suitable for the cameras.

[0059] In the direction of transport, behind camera station 18, two devices 22 for discharging the bulk material are arranged one behind the other. The devices 22 have an air nozzle guide element 24 that blows individual bulk material pieces from the transport device 9 into a collection container 23 with a targeted burst of air. Adjustment units 12 are also arranged on the discharging devices 22, which are designed in particular for moving the adjustment units 12, here, for example, the air nozzle guide elements 24 and the collection container. To trigger the burst of air from the air nozzle guide elements 24, these can, for example, be coupled to the control unit 5, which in turn activates the burst of air based on the parameters detected by the cameras 19, 20 and the transport speed of the bulk material pieces on the transport device 9. Additionally, a corresponding sensor unit 25 can, for example, also be arranged to trigger the burst of air.A third discharge device 26 is provided following the first and second discharge devices 22 in the transport direction. This third discharge device guides all bulk material parts not discharged by the first and second devices 22 away from the transport device 9. For this purpose, the third discharge device 26 has a corresponding guide plate 27. The third discharge device 26 also includes corresponding adjustment units 12 (not shown here) for moving the device 26 and / or the guide plate 27.

[0060] Furthermore, along the transport path below the glass plate, 10 additional lighting modules 27 are shown, which are also movable via adjustment units 12. The lighting modules can be used in particular when additional cameras are arranged in these areas or camera stations. The individual components mentioned above are also mounted on a mounting plate 28, which has further mounting positions for additional devices, for example, the aforementioned additional cameras.

[0061] All adjustment units 12 have a motor and a guide device along which the movement of the connected device / components takes place. The adjustment units may also include a gearbox and a brake. The adjustment units 12 are designed to perform a movement of the connected device in a vertical, horizontal, and / or a movement about a rotational axis, for example, a pivoting movement.

[0062] During operation, the bulk parts are placed in the infeed area 13 onto the transport surface 15 of the transport device 9, specifically the glass plate 10, which rotates clockwise and is held and driven by the clamping stations 11. The bulk parts are picked up from the transport surface 15 and guided along the second guide device 14. This positions them centrally on the glass plate 10. In the area of ​​the trigger point 21, each individual bulk part is detected by both cameras 19 and 20. Both cameras simultaneously create an image of each bulk part from different perspectives. The corresponding image data is sent to the control unit 5, which evaluates and checks it. If the parameters read from the image data correspond to the target parameters of the respective bulk parts stored in the control unit, they are classified as correct.Bulk parts whose actual parameters do not match the target parameters are classified as incorrect. During their subsequent transport, these bulk parts are then moved down from the transport device 9 to the respective discharge device 22, according to their classification. The discharge devices 22 are controlled by the control unit 5 using a sensor signal. Bulk parts remaining on the transport device 9 are ultimately discharged from the transport device 9 by the third discharge device 26.

[0063] The depicted device is designed both to implement an optimization circuit, in which the transport speed is adjusted to a setpoint, and to implement a fault suppression circuit. A cleaning device and a functional testing device are not shown, but can be additionally arranged and controlled via the control unit. An identification device can also be provided accordingly and connected to the control unit 9.

[0064] For setting up the sorting device 1, a specific identification code is identified and entered into the control unit 5 via the operating terminal. Using this identification code, the control unit 5 assigns the bulk parts to be sorted to a known bulk part. The corresponding position data of the adjustment units 12 are then retrieved, for example, from the control unit 5, and the adjustment units 12 are controlled by the control unit 5 based on this position data. This causes the devices and components connected to the adjustment units 12 to move into the target positions specified by the respective position data. The sorting process can then begin with the filling of the bulk parts into the feed device 2 or the storage hopper 8.

[0065] The depicted device is also designed for remote access. An external operator, i.e., an operator who does not have direct access to the control unit 5 located on the sorting device and is spatially separated from the sorting device 1, can access the control unit 5 and perform the setup, e.g., an optimization circuit and / or a fault correction circuit. At the location of the sorting device 1, it is then only necessary for a less qualified operator to fill the bulk parts into the feed device 2 or into the storage hopper 8.In addition to the significantly faster setup due to the fully automatic controlled movement of all devices and components by means of the adjustment units 12, an operator of the sorting device 1 also has the advantage that, firstly, he does not have to have a constantly highly qualified operator available to monitor the sorting device 1 and to intervene in the operation, but only needs a less qualified person to fill the sorting device 1 with bulk parts.

[0066] Although some aspects have been described in connection with a device, it is understood that these aspects also constitute a description of the corresponding process, such that a block or component of a device is also to be understood as a corresponding process step or as a feature of a process step. Similarly, aspects described in connection with or as a process step also constitute a description of a corresponding block, detail, or feature of a corresponding device. Some or all of the process steps may be performed by (or using) a hardware apparatus, such as a microprocessor, a programmable computer, or an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, some or more of the key process steps may be performed by such an apparatus. Reference symbol list 1 sorting device 2 Feed device 3 first guide device 4 sorting machine 5 Control unit 6 Packaging system 7. Defecation system 8 storage bunkers 9 Transport device 10 glass plates 11 tensioning stations 12 Adjustment unit 13 Introductory section 14 second guide device 15 Transport surface 16-page guide element 17 Inner guide element 18 camera stations 19 optical cameras 20 optical cameras 21 Trigger point 22 Device for dispensing 23 collection containers 24 air nozzle guide elements 25 sensor units 26 Device for dispensing 27 Lighting module 28 Mounting plate 29 Feed conveyor belt 30 Device for capturing

Claims

[1] Sorting device for bulk goods, comprising - a feeding device (2) with at least one first guide device (3) for feeding the bulk parts into a sorting machine (4), - a transport device (9) for transporting the bulk parts through the sorting machine (4), - at least one second guide device (14) for positioning the bulk parts on the transport device (9), - a device (30) arranged in the direction of transport behind the second guide device (14) for detecting individual or different parameters of the bulk material parts on a section of the transport device (9), - a device (22, 26) for discharging the bulk material from the transport device (9) into a collection container (23), characterized by , that - at least one adjusting unit (12) for moving the respective device (3, 14, 22, 26, 30) in at least one vertical direction, one horizontal direction and / or about an axis of rotation is arranged at least on the first and second guide device (3, 14), on the device (30) for detecting individual or different parameters and on the device (22, 26) for dispensing. - at least one control unit (5) for controlling the adjustment units (12) and for triggering the movement of the respective devices (3, 14, 22, 26, 30) coupled to the adjustment units is arranged in a position specified by the control unit (5). [2] Sorting device according to claim 1, characterized by , that the transport device (9) comprises a glass plate 10 rotating about a pivot axis. [3] Sorting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the second guide device (14) comprises a side guide element (16) and an inner guide element (17) for positioning the bulk parts on the transport device (9), both having at least one adjustment unit (12) designed for control by a control unit (5). [4] Sorting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the device (30) for detection comprises at least one optical camera (19, 20) with at least one adjustment unit (12) designed for control by a control unit (5). [5] Sorting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the device (30) for detection is assigned at least one lighting module (27) which includes at least one adjustment unit (12) designed for control by a control unit (5). [6] Sorting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a sensor unit is arranged for triggering the device for capturing, in particular at least one camera image, wherein the sensor unit comprises at least one adjustment unit (12) designed for control by a control unit (5). [7] Sorting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the device (30) for detection has at least one camera station (18) with at least two optical cameras (18, 19) which are aligned to the same trigger point (21) but offset from each other, wherein the camera station (18) and / or the cameras (18, 19) each comprise at least one adjustment unit (12) designed for control by a control unit. [8] Sorting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the devices (22, 26) for dispensing comprise an air nozzle guide element (24) with at least one adjustment unit (12) designed for control by a control unit (5). [9] Sorting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a cleaning device for automatically cleaning the transport device (9) is arranged, wherein the cleaning device comprises at least one adjustment unit (12) designed for control by a control unit (5). [10] Sorting device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a device for recognizing parameters of individual bulk parts is arranged and designed to compare the detected parameters with parameters of already known bulk parts stored in a database, to assign them to a known bulk part, to retrieve the position data of the adjustment units (12) stored for the known bulk parts and to provide them for the control unit (5). [11] Sorting device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that an identification device is arranged for the initial detection of parameters of individual bulk goods parts and the identification device is designed to create the predetermined positions of the adjustment units (12) on the basis of the detected parameters. [12] Method for setting up and controlling a sorting device (1) for bulk parts according to at least one of claims 1 to 11 comprising the steps: - Determination of parameters of the bulk goods to be sorted, - Assignment of the bulk goods to be sorted to a known bulk goods part based on the determined parameters, - Retrieval of position data of the adjustment units (12) that are assigned to the known bulk parts, - Controlling the adjustment units (12) of at least the first and second guide devices (3, 14), the device (30) for detecting individual or different parameters and the at least one device (22, 26) for dispensing by means of the control unit (5) and - Triggering the movement of the respective device (3, 14, 22, 26, 30) coupled to the adjustment units (12) into a position to be taken from the position data. [13] Method according to claim 12, characterized by, that an actual throughput of the bulk parts is determined and compared with a stored target throughput, and in case of a deviation an optimization circuit is carried out in which the transport speed of the bulk parts by the feed device (2), the transport speed of the bulk parts by the transport device (9) and / or the position of the guide devices (3, 14) are changed by means of the adjustment units (12) to adapt the actual throughput to the target throughput. [14] Method according to at least one of claims 12 or 13, characterized by, that an actual throughput quantity is determined and if a stored threshold value (fault) is undershot, a fault correction circuit is carried out, in which at least the first and second guide devices (3, 14) are moved by means of the adjustment units (12) into an open position in which the bulk parts have the greatest possible freedom of movement along a transport path through the sorting device (1). [15] Method according to at least one of claims 12 to 14, characterized by , that an identification device is arranged for the initial recording of parameters of new bulk parts and prior to the determination of the parameters at least one of the new bulk parts is arranged in the identification device and all parameters of the individual bulk parts relevant for the sorting of the new bulk parts are recorded, position data for the adjustment units(12) are calculated and stored with the parameters in a storage unit. [16] Method according to at least one of claims 12 to 15, characterized by , that a device coupled to the control unit (5) for functional testing of the transport surface (15) is arranged, which in particular includes at least one adjustment unit (12) controllable by the control unit (5) for moving the device in at least one vertical direction, one horizontal direction and / or about an axis of rotation. [17] Method according to at least one of claims 12 to 16, characterized by , that in particular by means of the device for functional testing a degree of contamination of the transport surface (15) is determined and if a predetermined degree of contamination is exceeded a cleaning of the transport surface (15) is carried out. [18] Method according to at least one of claims 12 to 17, characterized by, that to clean the transport surface (15) a cleaning body of a cleaning device is moved along the transport surface, wherein the cleaning body is moved to the transport surface (15) by means of at least one adjustment unit controllable by the control unit (12). [19] Method according to at least one of claims 12 to 18, characterized by , that the transport device (9) comprises clamping stations (11) that can be moved and opened by means of adjusting units (12) and that, for the purpose of replacing the transport device (9), at least the second guide device (14), the device (30) for gripping, the devices (22, 26) for ejecting and the clamping stations (11) are moved into a replacement position by means of the adjusting units (12) controlled by the control unit (5) and the transport device (9) is removed from the clamping stations (11) and a new transport device (9) is arranged. [20] Method according to at least one of claims 12 to 19, characterized by , that the at least one control unit (5) is designed for external access, wherein the setup of the sorting device (1), the monitoring of the operation, the execution of the optimization circuit, the execution of the fault correction circuit, the execution of the functional check and / or the cleaning of the transport device (9) are carried out via remote access.

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