Parcel diverter for conveying and sorting general cargo

Abstract

Package diverter (1) for conveying and / or steering unit loads, comprising a housing (3) and several transport rollers (2) received in the housing (3) and driven by a motor for conveying and / or steering unit loads (4), wherein unit loads (4) rest on one transport roller (2) or on several transport rollers (2), and wherein the multiple transport rollers (2) are arranged in the housing (3) in one plane, preferably side by side and / or one behind the other, and wherein the transport rollers (2) each have a motor-driven roller (20), a roller holder (21) and a bearing axle (22), wherein the roller (20) is arranged on the roller holder (21) and the roller holder (21) is arranged on the bearing axle (22), and comprising a conveying drive (5) for conveying the unit load (4), which has a motor-driven friction shaft (51) on which the rollers (20) of several transport rollers (2) bear and are driven by the friction shaft (51) to rotate about a first axis (23) in order to convey the unit load (4), and comprising a steering drive (6) for steering the unit load (4), which pivots the bearing axes (22) of several of the transport rollers about a second axis (24) for steering the unit load (4), characterized in that that the rollers (20) are acted upon by a spring (28) in the direction of the friction shaft (51) and the transport rollers (2) are designed to be rotatable about their second axis (24) by at least 100°, preferably at least 110° or 120°, without the roller (20) losing contact with the friction shaft (51).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a parcel diverter for conveying and sorting unit loads according to the features of the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Such parcel diverters for conveying and sorting individual items are already known in various designs. Known parcel diverters use a deflection device for diverting the items, which is designed, for example, as a movable stop to push the items in the desired direction. Parcel diverters with so-called omni-wheels are also known; these are rollers with several fixed axes of rotation that, when driven around a specific axis, cause the items to be displaced. Furthermore, parcel diverters with driven rollers arranged at a fixed angle are known; these rollers can also be height-adjustable to allow for sorting the items.

[0003] Document JP 2012-171 761 A describes a parcel switch with transport rollers driven by a friction shaft. The friction shaft has notches, allowing the transport rollers to be steered by a maximum of + / - 45°.

[0004] Document US 5 921 374 A describes a parcel switch with friction rollers, wherein two rows of transport rollers are driven by a friction shaft.

[0005] Document JP 2010-76863 A describes a parcel diverter with friction rollers, where the friction rollers have straight sections arranged at approximately 30° angles to each other. The described transport rollers only allow a maximum rotation of + / - 45°.

[0006] Document CN 1 10 759 057 A describes, in itself, a deflection ball conveying mechanism comprising a deflection mechanism and a drive mechanism, wherein the deflection mechanism includes a support frame to which a deflection ball is movably connected. The support frame is connected to a pivot arm which serves to deflect the deflection ball as a whole, the deflection angle being 0 to 90 degrees.

[0007] The present invention aims to create an improved parcel diverter for conveying and sorting unit loads that is universally applicable and enables a high unit load throughput. In particular, the parcel diverter should allow for easy maintenance and repair.

[0008] The problem is solved according to the invention by a parcel diverter for conveying and sorting unit loads with the features of claim 1.

[0009] According to the invention, a package diverter for conveying and / or steering unit loads is proposed, comprising a housing and several transport rollers received in the housing and driven by a motor for conveying and / or steering unit loads, wherein the unit load rests on one or more transport rollers, and wherein the several transport rollers are arranged in the housing in one plane, preferably side by side and / or one behind the other, and wherein the transport rollers each have a motor-driven roller, a roller holder and a bearing shaft, wherein the roller is arranged on the roller holder and the roller holder is arranged on the bearing shaft, and comprising a conveying drive for conveying the unit load, which has a motor-driven friction shaft on which the rollers of several transport rollers bear and are driven by the friction shaft to rotate about a first axis in order to convey the unit load.and comprising a steering drive for steering the unit load, which pivots the bearing axes of several of the transport rollers about a second axis to steer the unit load. It is essential that the rollers are acted upon by a spring in the direction of the friction shaft and that the transport rollers are designed to be rotatable about their second axis by at least 100°, preferably at least 110° or 120°, without the roller losing contact with the friction shaft.

[0010] One advantage of the package diverter according to the invention lies in the robust construction of the transport rollers and the large and flexible angular range around the second axis of the transport rollers for steering even large or heavy items, even at higher conveying speeds and around larger angles. This makes it possible to design conveyor systems more compact and flexible. Furthermore, the flexible rotation around a large angular range enables the steering of both light and heavy items, as well as smooth diversion, for example, in a curve. Flexible rotation means, in particular, that the rotation angle of the transport rollers around the second axis can be individually set within the angular range. Specifically, the rotation angle of individual transport rollers can be adjusted independently.The large and preferably individually adjustable angular ranges of the steering rollers enable the transport of individual items, for example, under curves, as it is possible to swivel the rollers at the end of the parcel diverter by a larger angle than at the start. This results in particularly smooth cornering. In contrast, with conventional parcel diverters, the individual items are abruptly diverted from a straight path. This is necessary with conventional parcel diverters because the smaller angular ranges for steering are the only way to ensure diversion at the desired point without an excessively long diverter.

[0011] Each transport roller has a driven wheel that rotates about a first axis. The wheel can be rounded or cylindrical. Its surface can be convex, rounded, or composed of flat surfaces. The wheel is typically made of an elastic material, such as plastic or rubber. It is possible for the wheels to be coated with an elastic material, such as plastic or rubber. During transport, the wheel's surface comes into contact with the goods or packages. Specifically, the goods or packages rest on the wheel of one or more transport rollers.

[0012] General cargo includes items such as packages or goods packed in trays, tubs, or bags. In particular, the package diverter can transport a continuous flow of general cargo in one direction and, if necessary, divert individual items from the flow to the left and / or right.

[0013] The goods are transported resting on the rotatably driven roller as follows. The conveyor drive drives the rollers around the first axis, the rotation of the rollers around the first axis causing the goods to be conveyed in one direction across the package diverter. The conveyor drive thus preferably transports the goods in a straight line across the package diverter. The steering drive pivots the transport rollers, preferably one or more of the bearing axes of one or more of the transport rollers, around the second axis, the pivoting movement of the transport rollers around the second axis causing a change in the conveying direction of the goods, i.e., steering them on the package diverter. Thus, by combining the conveyor drive and the steering drive, the goods can not only be transported in a straight line across the package diverter, but can also be steered in a desired direction across the package diverter.This allows the parcel sorter to, for example, sort or divert individual items.

[0014] In particular, the parcel diverter conveys individual items or parcels along a conveying direction, especially downstream. The starting section of the parcel diverter is located upstream of the end section. The parcel diverter can have several downstream outputs, preferably adjacent to several discharge lines, in order to convey individual items or parcels specifically to one of the discharge lines. For example, the parcel diverter can have two, three, four, or more outputs, or be connected to two, three, four, or more discharge lines.

[0015] A control device can be used to control the conveyor drive and / or the steering drive. For example, the control device can control the rotational speed of the rollers around the first axis and thus the conveyor speed. The control device can control the pivoting of the transport rollers around the second axis to determine the conveying direction of a unit load. It may be possible for the control device to pivot different transport rollers at different angles, for example, to set a curved conveying path for a unit load.

[0016] It may be designed so that the transport rollers in the parcel switch are arranged in a home position. In this home position, the package is transported in a straight line across the parcel switch.

[0017] The transport rollers can be designed to pivot about the second axis by up to + / - 60° from their initial position, i.e., up to 60° in two directions, preferably clockwise and counterclockwise. Preferably, the initial position corresponds to an angle of 0°. Pivoting the transport rollers about their second axis steers the goods, i.e., changes their direction, by transporting them across the package diverter in a direction other than straight, preferably to the left or right. This allows the goods to be steered and transported by up to + / - 60° to the left or right across the package diverter, starting from the straight-line transport direction in their initial position.

[0018] In designs of the conveyor drive with a friction shaft, the roller of a transport roller is actuated by a spring in the direction of the friction shaft. The spring ensures contact between the roller and the friction shaft, especially when the transport roller pivots. The spring allows the frictional engagement between the roller and the friction shaft to be maintained even if the surface of the roller or the friction shaft is uneven.

[0019] The roller may be rotatably mounted about a roller axis. Alternatively, the roller axis may be rotatably mounted within the roller and fixedly mounted in the roller holder. Finally, the roller axis may be fixedly mounted within the roller, in particular non-rotatably connected to the roller, and rotatably mounted in the roller holder.

[0020] It can be provided that the roller holder of a transport roller is U-shaped with a base section and two roller holder arms, wherein the roller holder arms of the roller holder have recesses for receiving a roller, preferably a roller axle.

[0021] It is possible for the recess in the roller holder arm for receiving the roller to be open on the side facing the friction shaft, particularly open on one side. The advantage of such an open design is that the roller can be mounted closer to the friction shaft, thus allowing larger rotation angles around the second axis when pivoting a transport roller. Furthermore, this design provides additional security for the roller, as it can only be removed from the roller holder in the direction of the friction shaft, which is not possible during operation.

[0022] It can be provided that the roller is mounted in the edge region of the roller holder arm in the direction of the friction shaft, preferably in the edge region of the roller holder arm at least at the level of the friction shaft. It can be provided that, for such a mounting, the roller holder arm has a recess, and / or the roller is arranged offset towards the friction shaft in the roller holder arm, and / or the roller holder arm is arranged offset. Such a design allows for a larger swivel range or a larger rotation angle about the second axis, since with such a mounting, the roller holder arm does not strike the friction shaft during rotation at large angles.

[0023] The roller axle can be secured in the recess in the roller holder. Preferably, the recess is undercut to allow the roller axle to be clipped into place. Preferably, the roller axle has projections that engage in the recess to allow the roller axle to be clipped into place.

[0024] It can be provided that a roller cover is formed on the transport roller, preferably on the roller holder, which partially covers the opening in the transport surface that allows the rollers to pass through from below. Preferably, the roller cover is arranged on the transport roller; most preferably, the roller cover rotates with the transport roller when it rotates around the second axis. The advantage of such a design is that the openings in the transport surface can be larger to compensate for play in the steering of the rollers or for misalignment of the transport roller arrangement, while still allowing small items to be transported.

[0025] It may be provided that a transport roller has a spring which biases the roller against the friction shaft. Preferably, the roller holder is spring-loaded.

[0026] It can be provided that the roller holder is designed in two parts for spring actuation, with the roller holder arms being arranged on the base section so as to be tiltable in the direction of the friction shaft. Preferably, the roller holder arms have a connecting section that joins the two roller holder arms together.

[0027] It may be provided that the spring engages the roller holder arm or the connecting section with its first end and engages the base section with its second end.

[0028] It may be provided that one or more stops are formed on one or both roller holder arms, which interact with the base section to allow spring action only up to the stop. It may be provided that the one or more stops are designed as screws or shafts, which preferably extend through the roller holder arm and preferably simultaneously serve to support the roller cover.

[0029] The roller axis may extend through the roller holder, preferably through the roller holder arms, or project beyond the roller holder, preferably through the roller holder arms. The roller cover may be arranged on the section extending through or projecting from the roller holder. The roller cover may be secured against rotation by a stop in conjunction with the roller cover's mounting.

[0030] The surface of the roller that interacts with the friction shaft can be designed with stepped flat surfaces, preferably at 0°, 20°, 40°, and 60°. More preferably, these flat surfaces at 0°, 20°, 40°, and 60° form steps. The stepped flat surfaces ensure secure contact of the roller, i.e., a larger contact area with the friction shaft and thus reliable drive of the roller. This allows even heavy loads to be conveyed or steered reliably. The contact area at 20°, 40°, and 60° can be at least 4 mm, preferably at least 6 mm. The larger contact area ensures reliable drive even for heavy loads.

[0031] It can be provided that the friction shaft has a diameter of at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm, most preferably at least 3 cm.

[0032] The conveyor drive may include an electric friction shaft motor to drive the friction shaft. The friction shaft motor may be located below, above, or beside the base plate and supported by it. The friction shaft motor and the friction shaft may be connected via a belt drive or a chain drive.

[0033] The friction shaft can be made of steel, plastic, or rubber, preferably with at least one section made of steel, plastic, or rubber that interacts with the rollers. The advantage of a steel construction is its long service life. The advantage of a plastic or rubber construction is that it can transmit higher drive forces to the rollers.

[0034] It may be provided that the first axis of the transport rollers is parallel to the top of the housing or the transport surface, and in particular that it is horizontally aligned. It may also be provided that the first axis and the second axis are perpendicular to each other. In particular, the second axis may be vertically aligned.

[0035] It is possible for the first and second axes of a transport roller to intersect. The advantage of such a design is that the roller can be rotated around the intersection point about both the first and second axes. It is advantageous if the first and second axes of a transport roller intersect, preferably at the midpoint of the first axis. This allows the transport roller to be rotated around its midpoint about both the first and, in particular, the second axis. This enables rapid rotation of the transport roller without the occurrence of imbalance or an undesirable tilting moment during rotation.

[0036] In particular, a base plate can be provided on which several of the transport rollers, preferably all of them, are mounted. The base plate can also mount the bearing axles of several of the transport rollers. The base plate can be designed as a mechanically stable plate, particularly as a one-piece plate, to mount several of the transport rollers and absorb the forces acting upon them. The base plate can also be designed as a solid plate to dampen any vibrations that may occur when the transport rollers are driven. For example, the base plate can be an aluminum plate with a thickness of 10 mm, preferably up to 35 mm.

[0037] It can be provided that a transport roller is rotatably mounted in the base plate by means of its bearing axles. Preferably, the bearing axle extends through a recess in the base plate and is, in particular, positively secured in the recess.

[0038] The base plate for mounting a transport roller, preferably the bearing axle, may be designed to have either a ball bearing, a needle bearing, a bearing bushing, or a sliding bushing. Designs with ball bearings or needle bearings offer greater stability and a longer service life. Designs with bearing bushings or sliding bushings are characterized by simple and inexpensive manufacturing.

[0039] The housing protects the transport drive and the steering drive. The transport drive and the steering drive are housed within the housing. The housing may have at least two stable side walls, a base, and two side walls designed as covers, which may be removable. Preferably, the at least two stable side walls are load-bearing, particularly fixed to the base plate and not normally designed to be removable. Preferably, the load-bearing side walls are made of aluminum. The housing may have additional side walls, which may be removable and non-load-bearing. Preferably, the load-bearing and / or non-load-bearing side walls and / or the base of the housing may have ventilation openings.The housing may also include a cover, particularly a removable one. The cover may be designed as a single, continuous cover or as a segmented cover.

[0040] It may be provided that the noise generation is dampened by the housing and the mechanical components arranged therein, i.e., the standards EN ISO 11688-1 and EN ISO 11688-2 regarding noise exposure are complied with by the arrangement of the mechanical components in the housing.

[0041] It is possible for the base plate to be integrated within the housing, which then has a separate base. An advantage of a separate base is the protection it provides to the transport rollers and other components within the housing. Preferably, electrical components of the parcel switch, particularly for controlling and / or supplying power to individual modules, transport rollers, and / or the steering drive, are arranged on the base. Another advantage of a separate base plate is that it can be more robust without having to cover the entire base of the parcel switch.

[0042] Alternatively, it can also be provided that the base plate forms the bottom of the housing.

[0043] The package diverter may be provided with a transport surface, preferably forming the top of the package diverter. The transport rollers may extend through the transport surface. The transport surface may be made of metal, stainless steel, or plastic, and may be designed as a continuous or closed transport surface (apart from the transport rollers extending through the transport surface). The advantage of a preferably continuous or closed transport surface is that even small, irregularly shaped, and / or flexible items can be conveyed, since the items can rest not only on the rollers but also on the transport surface. The transport surface may be attached to the housing, preferably covering the top of the housing. Preferably, the transport surface forms the housing lid.

[0044] The housing can be mounted on a frame, preferably one that is height-adjustable. This allows the parcel switch to be integrated into an existing transport system by adjusting the height of the transport rollers to match the existing system.

[0045] It can be provided that several transport rollers are arranged side by side in the parcel diverter. "Side by side" preferably means in the direction perpendicular to the straight-line transport in the home position. It can also be provided that several rows of transport rollers are arranged one behind the other, i.e., preferably in the direction of the straight-line transport in the home position. Preferably, the rollers of adjacent rows are offset from each other. In particular, the offset rollers of two adjacent rows interlock to achieve a high roller density. This allows the row spacing to be less than twice the roller diagonal.

[0046] The roller spacing between rollers can be between 50 mm and 90 mm, preferably between 60 mm and 80 mm, most preferably 70 mm, preferably within a row. The row-to-row spacing can also be between 50 mm and 90 mm, preferably between 60 mm and 80 mm, most preferably 70 mm.

[0047] The rollers can have a diameter of 2 cm to 10 cm, preferably 4 cm to 8 cm, and most preferably 5.5 cm to 6.5 cm. The advantage of a smaller diameter roller is that the transport rollers can be arranged closer together. The advantage of a larger diameter is the increased robustness of the rollers.

[0048] The rollers may be made of plastic or rubber. Preferably, at least an outer area of ​​the rollers is made of plastic or rubber.

[0049] The housing may contain the control device for the transport rollers. The control device may include a power supply for providing electrical energy to the conveyor drive and / or steering drive. In particular, the control device may include a microprocessor and / or a PLC for controlling the conveyor drive and / or steering drive. Preferably, the control device can control both the steering drive and the conveyor drive, and in particular, control them independently. It may also be provided that the control device controls or supplies electrical energy to multiple conveyor drives and / or multiple steering drives.

[0050] The housing may contain a control cabinet for wiring and / or securing the transport rollers and / or the steering drive and / or the conveyor drive, or the housing itself may form a control cabinet. Preferably, the control cabinet is accessible from outside the housing, preferably through a maintenance or inspection hatch located in a housing wall.

[0051] It may be provided that the rotational speed of the rollers around the first axis is controlled to regulate the conveying speed or a compensating curve. It may also be provided that the rotational angle of the transport rollers around the second axis is controlled, particularly to define a conveying direction.

[0052] To swivel the transport rollers, the steering drive can provide a linkage for transmitting a swiveling movement from the steering drive motor, preferably the steering motor, to the bearing axles of several transport rollers. The linkage can be designed as a gear element and have one or more connecting rods.

[0053] In one configuration, the transport rollers can be grouped into modules. Several modules can be interchangeably mounted or held within the housing. Specifically, a module comprises a base plate with two rows of transport rollers. The number of transport rollers in each row can be variable. The number of modules in a housing can also be variable. This allows the size of the parcel sorter to be individually adapted to the required specifications.

[0054] For example, the bearing axle of a transport roller may extend through the base plate. The steering drive may be arranged below the base plate, and the roller above it. In particular, the base plate may support several transport rollers arranged in a row. The base plate may have several such rows of transport rollers side by side, preferably two rows.

[0055] For example, the steering drive can have one or more connecting rods to couple or connect several of the transport rollers together. In particular, the connecting rod can couple all the transport rollers in a row to each other, especially in a rotationally fixed manner. It can be provided that the connecting rod interacts with the bearing axis to rotate the transport roller about the second axis.

[0056] In the case of multiple rows of transport rollers, one embodiment may provide that each row of transport rollers has a connecting rod. In particular, the connecting rod links all transport rollers in a row. Preferably, all connecting rods are arranged at the same height or have the same distance from the base plate. This prevents different tilting moments from being introduced into the bearing axes by the connecting rods.

[0057] The connecting rod can be provided with a connecting section and several bearing sections, wherein the bearing sections are rotatably connected to the connecting section at a first point and are non-rotatably connected to the transport roller, preferably the bearing axle, at a second point. Due to the non-rotatable connection to the transport roller and the rotatable connection to the connecting section, an identical rotational movement of one transport roller can be transmitted to the other transport rollers. This occurs because the rotational movement of the first transport roller, via the bearing sections, causes a displacement of the connecting section of the connecting rod, and this displacement of the connecting rod transmits an identical rotational movement through the bearing sections to the other transport rollers.

[0058] The connecting section and the bearing section can be rotatably connected to each other via a bolt and a bearing bushing or sliding bushing, or an axle and a ball bearing. Preferably, the bolt is made of steel. Preferably, the bolt is pressed into the bearing section or the connecting section. A steel bolt design ensures a long service life even with frequent switching operations.

[0059] It may be provided that the steering drive includes a steering drive motor, preferably an electric steering drive motor.

[0060] It can be provided that the connecting rod or one of the transport rollers is connected to the steering drive motor via a chain. Preferably, the steering drive motor and / or the connecting rod and / or the transport roller has a sprocket for this purpose. By forming the sprocket on the connecting rod, preferably on the bearing section, the rotational movement of the sprocket is transmitted to the transport rollers via the connecting rod. By forming the sprocket on the transport roller, the transport roller is rotated by the steering drive motor, and this rotational movement is transmitted to the other transport rollers via the connecting rod. The advantage of such a chain drive of the connecting rod is that even when the transport rollers are rotated beyond + / - 60°, the connecting rod does not self-lock. Self-locking means that, at this position of the connecting rod, further displacement is no longer possible.

[0061] The connecting rod, preferably the connecting section, may be designed with undercuts or projections. Preferably, the bearing sections are arranged in the area of ​​the projections or the non-undercut areas of the connecting section. Due to the design of the projections or the undercut and the rotatable bearing between the connecting section and the bearing section, the projections pivot around the second axis when the transport rollers rotate. In particular, the connecting rod can pivot the bearing axes of the transport rollers within a range of +60° to -60°, thereby enabling a total rotation of 120° or more.

[0062] The steering drive may be provided with a tensioning device for tensioning a chain or belt. For example, the steering drive motor may be designed to be slidable relative to the base plate in order to tension the chain or belt. The steering drive motor may be arranged on a support plate, and the support plate and base plate may each have a slotted hole, being slidable relative to each other. Preferably, the slotted hole in the support plate and the slotted hole in the base plate are rotated 90° relative to each other to allow tensioning of the chain or belt.

[0063] It may be provided that a rotation stop is formed on the bearing axis, which interacts with a part of the base plate to prevent steering beyond + / - 60°, preferably a total of 120°. Preferably, the rotation stop can become effective at a rotation angle of more than + / - 62°, most preferably + / - 65°, in particular when it comes into contact with the connecting rod.

[0064] It may be provided that the rotation stop is formed by the linkage and the bearing axis, with the linkage cooperating with the bearing axis to form the stop.

[0065] In one embodiment, the steering drive may include a steering drive motor, preferably a steering motor, and a chain, preferably at least one chain, in the motor output. A sprocket for the chain may be arranged on the steering drive motor, preferably on a motor shaft of the steering drive motor, and on the bearing shaft of a transport roller. Since all transport rollers in a row are rotationally fixed to one another, it is sufficient if the steering drive motor is connected on its output side to one, preferably at least one, of the transport rollers. Due to the rotationally fixed coupling of the transport rollers in a row, the pivoting movement of one transport roller is transmitted to all transport rollers in the row.

[0066] It can be provided that the steering drive motor, preferably a steering motor, has several sprockets, and each sprocket interacts with a sprocket of a series of transport rollers. Preferably, two sprockets are formed on the steering drive motor, preferably a steering motor, wherein the first sprocket is connected via a first chain to a first bearing axle of a first row and the sprocket arranged thereon, and wherein the second sprocket is connected via a second chain to a second bearing axle of a second row and the sprocket arranged thereon.

[0067] It may be provided that one or more gears are arranged on the bearing axis of each of the several transport rollers, with one or more chains connecting the gears to each other.

[0068] The steering drive may be configured to have a chain connecting all the transport rollers of the parcel switch or module. Alternatively, the steering drive may have multiple chains, with each chain connecting two adjacent transport rollers. In a configuration with multiple chains, for example, two sprockets are arranged one above the other on the bearing axis of the transport rollers.

[0069] A chain tensioner can be provided to tension the chain. Preferably, each chain is tensioned by its own chain tensioner. This allows the chain tension of the chains to be adjusted to a predetermined value, thus preventing or reducing slippage.

[0070] It may be provided that one or more sprockets are arranged below the base plate on the bearing axis of the transport roller.

[0071] It may be provided that the parcel switch for conveying and / or steering unit loads has several modules arranged next to each other in the housing in an interchangeable manner, with several motor-driven transport rollers arranged next to each other in each module.

[0072] It may be provided that each module has a conveying drive with at least one electric conveying motor for driving the module's transport rollers around the first axis and a steering drive with at least one electric steering motor for driving the module's transport rollers around the second axis.

[0073] One advantage of the invention of the parcel diverter with multiple modules according to the invention is that there is no mechanical coupling between the drives of several modules. During the installation and removal of a module, the modules are only coupled electronically to enable common control. This makes replacing the modules very simple and quick. A further advantage is that if one module malfunctions, the other modules remain fully functional, thus ensuring, or preferably at least partially ensuring, conveying and steering even if one module fails. "At least partially ensured" can be understood to mean that, for example, the conveying and steering of smaller and / or lighter items than the maximum possible can still be guaranteed without limitations.

[0074] Another advantage is that a single module remains fully functional even when removed and can be tested individually. There is no need to remove a module within the housing for repair or testing. Furthermore, having a spare module on hand can drastically reduce system downtime.

[0075] To facilitate easy testing, the connection cable(s) of a module can be long enough to allow the module to be removed from the housing and placed next to it without unplugging it. Alternatively, an extension cable can be provided to operate a module outside the housing and connect it to the housing's control unit or power supply.

[0076] Another advantage of the modular design lies in the noise reduction achieved through the arrangement of the modules within the housing. It is possible to arrange the modules in the housing in a vibration-damping manner.

[0077] The electric conveyor motor may be designed as an electric axle motor or as an electric motor for driving the friction shaft, preferably a friction shaft motor. The steering motor, preferably the steering drive motor, may also be designed as an electric motor.

[0078] In an advantageous embodiment, several of the transport rollers can be combined into a single module. Each module can be independently inserted into or removed from the housing. Individual modules can be replaced for maintenance or repair purposes. For example, a defective module can be exchanged for a functioning one. Having a working module on hand minimizes downtime for the parcel sorter.

[0079] It can be provided that at least three modules are arranged in the housing, preferably at least five modules, and most preferably at least seven modules. Preferably, the housing and the number of modules can be adapted to the requirements of the unit load, i.e., more modules and a longer housing can be selected for heavier unit loads or larger swivel angles.

[0080] In particular, each module has its own base plate. The base plate extends over the entire surface area of ​​a module.

[0081] Each module can be configured to have at least 5 and up to 35 transport rollers, preferably at least 15, and most preferably at least 27, all mounted together on a base plate. In particular, the base plate of a module supports two rows of transport rollers. To achieve the closest possible arrangement of the transport rollers, the two rows of a module can be offset from each other, so that a transport roller in one row is partially positioned between the two adjacent transport rollers in the opposite row. A high number of transport rollers also ensures the reliable conveying of small or heavy individual items. Preferably, the number of rollers is determined by the width of the modules and the spacing between the transport rollers. More preferably, the number of rollers is determined by the conveying elements arranged before and / or after the package diverter.

[0082] The modular design of the parcel switch, with regard to the size of the housing, and / or the number of modules, and / or the number of transport rollers per module, may be based on a predefined product range. In particular, the length and width of the parcel switch can be flexibly modified within certain limits.

[0083] The modular design of the parcel diverter may include a housing frame with four side walls and / or a base. The housing can accommodate multiple modules. To adapt the parcel diverter to different requirements, varying numbers of modules can be used. For simple conveying tasks, a housing with two modules can be used. For conveying larger items or for multi-lane conveying, the housing and the number of modules can be increased accordingly.

[0084] It may be provided that, for the modular design of the package switch, the base plate is formed from a module base plate in each module.

[0085] It may be provided that, for the modular design of the parcel switch, the transport surface is formed from several module transport surfaces, with each module comprising one module transport surface. In particular, the housing cover is formed by the several module transport surfaces.

[0086] Preferably, a module transport surface is detachably attached to a module. For example, the module transport surface can be removed for inserting or removing the module from the housing.

[0087] It can be provided that several transport rollers are arranged side by side in the module. "Side by side" preferably means in the direction perpendicular to the straight-line transport of the home position. It can be provided that several rows of transport rollers are arranged one behind the other, i.e., preferably in the direction of straight-line transport in the home position; preferably that two rows of transport rollers are arranged in one module; preferably that the transport rollers of several rows are arranged offset from one another.

[0088] For the modular design of the parcel switch, one or more modules may be arranged on the housing, preferably on the housing frame. This can be achieved, for example, by providing that the housing frame or the module has module recesses into which a module projection of the module or the housing frame engages, preferably for arranging the module in the housing. In particular, each module may have a holder attached to the narrow end face of the base plate, which engages in a module recess of the housing frame.

[0089] It may be provided that the module can only be inserted into the housing in a defined position or in one direction. This predefined usability can be achieved through a geometric, in particular asymmetrical, design of the module and / or the housing, preferably of the module projection or module recess, or through a geometric arrangement of electrical connections for power supply or control of the module. The geometric designs of the module and / or the housing may be configured as a module recess, module stop, or module projections.

[0090] To facilitate the removal or insertion of modules, handles may be provided or arranged on the module. Preferably, the handles are designed separately and can be connected to a module as needed, for example, by being screwed on, plugged in, or snapped into place. This has the advantage that the handles are only connected to the module when required and can be removed during normal operation. Alternatively, the handles can also be permanently attached to the module, for example, by being hinged or extendable.

[0091] It may be stipulated that the weight of the module does not exceed the maximum weight for lifting one or two people according to DIN 33411-5. This can be achieved through appropriate dimensioning of the modules.

[0092] It may be provided that a control system for the modules is located in the housing.

[0093] It may be possible to synchronize the transport rollers of several modules electronically.

[0094] It can be provided that each module in a housing can be controlled separately. Preferably, a separate conveying and / or steering system can be set for each module. Preferably, when steering the unit load, the steering angle is gradually increased in each module to guide the unit load along a curved path.

[0095] It can be provided that, in a version of the parcel switch with electric axle motors, each transport roller can be controlled separately. Preferably, the conveying drive and the steering drive of each transport roller can be controlled separately. Most preferably, the rotational speed of each transport roller about the first axis can be controlled separately.

[0096] It may be provided that feet and / or a module frame are attached to the underside of the module base plate. Preferably, the length of the feet or the module frame is dimensioned such that it extends downwards beyond the steering drive and / or the conveyor drive, so that the module (in its removed state, i.e., when the module is not installed in the housing) rests on the feet and / or the module frame. In particular, the module frame may be longer than all components below the base plate. This ensures that the transport rollers, the steering drive, and / or the conveyor drive are not damaged when the module is removed, set down, or temporarily stored.

[0097] It may be provided that the module, in particular the module frame, includes a receptacle for a module control system and / or wiring and / or securing of the transport rollers.

[0098] In particular, only electrical connections need to be made when inserting a module into the housing. Since each module has its own steering drive and its own conveying drive, no coupling to a drive located inside the housing is required. This significantly simplifies the replacement of individual modules.

[0099] In particular, a module has only one or two connectors, especially with only one or two plugs, which are connected when the module is inserted into the housing and disconnected when it is removed. A connecting cable may be provided between the module and the housing. The module is supplied with electrical power and control data via this connector and / or the connecting cable. The module may be supplied with electrical power via the first connector and control data exchanged via the second connector. In particular, the single connector and / or the connecting cable includes, in addition to the power supply, an interface for a digital bus to exchange control data or control commands and / or sensor signals or status signals bidirectionally.

[0100] The module can be electronically monitored; most preferably, the electronic monitoring counts and / or logs the runtime and / or number of swivel movements. The sensor signals and / or status signals can be used for monitoring. This monitoring can, for example, determine when a module should be replaced or serviced before it fails completely.

[0101] In an advantageous embodiment, the plug connection of a module can be designed such that it connects automatically when the module is inserted into the housing and disconnects automatically when the module is removed. This eliminates the need for separate manufacturing of the plug connection and increases the operational reliability of the parcel switch.

[0102] In particular, each module has a steering drive, a conveyor drive, and a module control unit. This allows a module to be operated outside the housing, for example, to test, maintain, or adjust it.

[0103] It may be provided that a transport securing device is used to protect moving parts during the transport of a module.

[0104] It may be provided that a connecting cable is formed between the housing and the module. Preferably, the connecting cable is long enough that the module can be placed on the floor next to the housing when removed from it, without disconnecting the connecting cable.

[0105] The module may be provided with sensors for monitoring the function, preferably heat sensors, and / or weight sensors, and / or noise sensors, and / or motion sensors, preferably motion sensors for detecting imbalance.

[0106] One advantage of the modularity of the parcel switch is that it enables a maintenance and repair concept that reduces the parcel switch's downtime to an absolute minimum. This concept allows the plant operator / manufacturer to perform preventative maintenance or replacement of a component using a diagnostic tool integrated into the control system, even before a component actually fails. Replacement can also be performed only after a defect has already occurred. If the customer / manufacturer uses the diagnostic tool, this replacement can take place when the plant is scheduled for shutdown or during planned maintenance.

[0107] The problem is further solved by a method for maintaining and / or repairing a modular parcel switch, preferably designed according to one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the parcel switch comprises a housing and several modules arranged side by side in the housing in an interchangeable manner, wherein several motor-driven transport rollers are arranged side by side in each module to convey and / or steer unit loads, wherein unit loads rest on one or more transport rollers, and comprehensively a conveyor drive to drive the transport rollers around a first axis in order to convey the unit load, comprising a steering drive for steering the unit load, which pivots the bearing axes of several of the transport rollers around a second axis for steering the unit load, and that each module has a conveying drive with at least one electric conveying motor for driving the module's transport rollers around the first axis and a steering drive with at least one electric steering motor for driving the module's transport rollers around the second axis, wherein a maintenance facility is provided for maintenance, and wherein at least one module is removed from the packet switch, and wherein the at least one module is sent to the maintenance facility for maintenance and / or repair, and wherein a replacement module is installed in the packet switch during the maintenance and / or repair, and where, after maintenance and / or repair, the serviced and / or repaired module is sent to the parcel switch and installed in the parcel switch or stored as a spare module for the parcel switch.

[0108] It may be planned that the module is shipped to the maintenance facility in a transport box. The transport box secures the module itself and its moving components. The transport box serves to protect the module's mechanical and electrical components.

[0109] It may be provided that the belt width of the parcel switch is greater than 450 mm, preferably greater than 600 mm, most preferably greater than 900 mm.

[0110] Belt width refers to the maximum width of the parcel diverter on which the package goods can be conveyed.

[0111] The parcel diverter according to the invention can be integrated into existing conveyor systems or order picking systems for individual items or parcels. The parcel diverter can be used, for example, to divert individual items or parcels. Likewise, the parcel diverter can be used to guide individual items or parcels, whereby a continuous flow from the parcel diverter can be distributed, for example, to two, three, or four conveyor sections.

[0112] The supply of individual items to the parcel diverter can be achieved, for example, via a feed conveyor located upstream of the diverter. A conveyor belt can be arranged at the inlet of the diverter to deliver individual items or parcels. Downstream of the diverter, i.e., at the outlet of the diverter, at least two, preferably three, conveyors or conveyor belts can be arranged for the removal or further transport of the individual items or parcels.

[0113] To ensure that the parcel diverter receives individual items sequentially, a device for singulating the items can be provided upstream of the diverter. To read address information, a scanner can be provided to scan the items, for example, by scanning a label on the item and transmitting the address data to the parcel diverter. To ensure that the correct address data is transmitted for each item, the conveyor system can include a tracking device, for example, by tracing the items, preferably using light barriers or sensors.

[0114] It may be provided that a device for aligning the individual items is arranged upstream of the parcel diverter, and / or a device for indexing the individual items, and / or a device for scanning the individual items. The alignment device positions the individual items centrally, to the left, or to the right on the upstream conveyor belt. The indexing device sets the distance between two consecutive items, or establishes a minimum distance. The scanning device enables the tracking of the individual items and their diversion in the desired direction. These upstream devices ensure trouble-free diversion of the entire product range.

[0115] It may be provided that conveying sections of the conveyor system with lower friction are designed before and / or after the parcel diverter. This ensures reliable guidance and conveying through the parcel diverter, as the individual items in this area are almost entirely controlled by the rollers of the parcel diverter. Laterally arranged conveying sections, which deviate from the straight conveying path, may also be designed with higher friction so that these laterally arranged sections support the diverting process by pulling the individual items away from the parcel diverter.

[0116] It may be possible to convey and guide general cargo up to a size of 60 cm by 60 cm, preferably 90 cm by 90 cm.

[0117] It may be provided that individual items weighing up to 32 kg, preferably 50 kg, can be conveyed and guided.

[0118] It may be provided that a conveying speed of up to 1.8 m / s, preferably up to 2.5 m / s, is achieved. It may be provided that this conveying speed is maintained even when guiding individual items.

[0119] The parcel diverter according to the invention can be used, for example, by logistics service providers or parcel transport companies, or in industrial manufacturing. The parcel diverter according to the invention can also be used in automated warehouses or in food production.

[0120] Further embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the figures and described below. These include: • Fig. 1: Schematic representation of an embodiment of the parcel switch according to the invention; • Fig. 2: Parcel switch of the Fig. 1 with removed modules; • Fig. 3: Schematic representation of a module with friction rollers; • Fig. 4: Module with friction rollers of the Fig. 3 without transport area; • Fig. 5: Conveyor motor of the conveyor drive of the module of the Fig. 4; • Fig. 6: Friction roller in front view of the Fig. 3 to Fig. 9; • Fig. 7: Friction roller in rear view of the Fig. 3 to Fig. 9; • Fig. 8: First embodiment of a steering drive with linkage; • Fig. 9: Rods of the Fig. 8; • Fig. 10: Roller with bearing section of the steering drive Fig. 8 and Fig. 13; • Fig. 11: Role of Fig. 10 with transparent storage section; • Fig. 12: Roller with bearing section of the linkage made of Fig. 8 and Fig. 13 and double sprocket; • Fig. 13: Second embodiment of a steering drive with sprockets; • Fig. 14: Steering drive of the Fig. 14 and Fig. 19; • Fig. 15: Friction roller of the steering drive Fig. 13 with sprocket; • Fig. 16: Third embodiment of a steering drive with double sprockets; • Fig. 17: Role of the steering drive of the Fig. 16 with double sprockets; • Fig. 18: Conveyor device with parcel diverter according to the invention.

[0121] The figures illustrate possible embodiments of the invention. These embodiments serve to explain a possible implementation of the invention and are not intended to be limiting. In particular, a person skilled in the art can combine or vary individual features shown in the figures with other embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0122] Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the parcel switch 1 according to the invention, comprising a housing 3 and motor-driven transport rollers 2 arranged in the housing 3. The parcel switch 1 is in Fig. 1 arranged on a frame to align the transport rollers 2 with the height of the conveyor belts 80 arranged before and / or after them.

[0123] The exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows the parcel switch 1 with several modules 7 arranged in the housing 3. As in Fig. As shown in 2, the several modules 7 are plugged into the housing 3, with the following for better illustration in Fig. 2 four modules are away. In the execution of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 The housing 3 has two load-bearing housing side walls 30, which are connected to each other via a housing base 31. Recesses 84 are formed in the load-bearing housing side walls 30, into which module lugs 85 (see Fig. 3) engage the modules 7 appropriately. To ensure that the modules 7 can only be inserted into the housing 3 in one direction, the recesses 84 and the module lugs 85 of the two load-bearing housing side walls 30 can be designed differently. The housing 3 has two further housing side walls 30, which need not be load-bearing and may preferably have ventilation openings. Handles 72 can be arranged on the modules 7 for removing individual modules 7.

[0124] The following will be discussed in the Fig. 3 to Fig. Section 11 discusses the configurations of the modules with transport rollers as friction rollers and a friction shaft. In this embodiment, the conveyor drive 5 is designed as a friction shaft 51 with friction rollers. For simplicity, the rollers 20 are shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 as simple, in particular cylindrical, rollers. That is, the rollers are without the specifically rounded shape that is, for example, in Fig. 3 is shown.

[0125] Fig. Figure 3 shows a module 7 of the package diverter according to the invention with transport rollers 2, which has a conveying drive 5 with rollers 20 as friction rollers and a friction shaft 51. For conveying the packaged goods 4, the rollers 20 are rotatable about a first axis 23 (see Figure 3). Fig. 6) The transport rollers 2 are designed to rotate about a second axis 24 for steering the unit load 4 (see Fig. 6).

[0126] Module 7 of the Fig. 3 to Fig. The module 5 has a base plate 70 in which the transport rollers 2 are rotatably arranged about the second axis 24. A transport surface 14 with openings through which the rollers 20 of the transport rollers 2 partially engage is formed on the base plate 70 via an extension of the base plate. The unit load 4 can rest on the rollers 20 and, if necessary, also on the transport surface 14 during conveying. A conveying drive 5 is also provided below the base plate 70.

[0127] In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 3 to Fig. In the 5th embodiment, the transport rollers 2 are arranged in two rows, with several transport rollers 2 arranged side by side in each row. The rollers 20 of the two rows are offset from one another. In this embodiment, a frame 74 is formed below the module base plate 70, on which the module 7 can be placed.

[0128] The rollers 20 of the transport rollers 2, acting as friction rollers, are driven via the friction shaft 51. For this purpose, the rollers 20 bear against the friction shaft 51 under pressure. The friction shaft 51 is rotatably mounted in an extension of the module base plate and is, as shown in Fig. 5 is shown, driven by an electric motor 52 and a belt. For better visibility of the friction shaft 51, in Fig. 5 two transport rollers 2 not shown.

[0129] The Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 show the transport roller 2 of the Fig. 3 to Fig. 5, which are designed as friction rollers. In this embodiment, the outer surface of the roller 20 has several flat sections at 0°, 20°, 40°, and 60°. The roller 20 is rotatably mounted about the first axis 23, the axis engaging in two recesses of the roller holder 21. The recesses face towards the friction shaft 51 to secure the rollers 20.

[0130] The rollers 20 are held under pressure against the friction shaft 51 by the two-part roller holder 21 through spring action. The two-part roller holder 21 consists of the base section 25, which in this embodiment is U-shaped. Furthermore, the two-part roller holder 21 has two roller holder arms 26, which are connected to each other via a connecting section. The rollers 20 are pressed against the friction shaft by the rotatable mounting of the roller holder arms 26 about the pressure axis 16 in the base section 25 and by the spring action. The spring action is provided by a spring 28, which in this embodiment is arranged on the bearing axis of the roller holder and interacts at one end with the connecting section of the roller holder arms 26 and at its other end with the base section 25.To prevent the roller holder arms 26 and thus the roller 20 from tilting completely when the transport roller 2 is removed, these through-bolts are arranged on the roller holder arms 26, which, from a predetermined angle of tilting of the roller holder arms 26, interact with the base section 25 as a stop.

[0131] In this embodiment, the axis of roller 20 extends the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 extends beyond the roll holder arms 26 and has a projecting trapezoidal section. The roll cover 15 in the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 is held in place by the screws of the roller holder arms 26 and by the trapezoidal section which engages in the roller cover 15.

[0132] As in the Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the upper section of the roller holder arms 26 is recessed in the direction of the axis of the roller 20. This design positions the roller 20 in the edge region of the roller holder arms 26 in the direction of the friction shaft 51. This recess ensures that, even at large angles, when the transport roller 2 rotates about the second axis 24, the part of the roller holder arm 26 that faces the friction shaft 51 does not come into contact with the friction shaft 51.

[0133] In the Fig. 8 to Fig. Figure 17 illustrates various embodiments of the steering drives 6 and the transport rollers 2 used with them. Fig. 8 to Fig. Figure 12 shows a version of the steering drive 6 and the transport rollers 2 with linkage. Fig. 13 to Fig. Figure 15 shows a embodiment of the steering drive 6 and the transport rollers 2 with a chain 65. Fig. 16 and Fig. Figure 17 shows an embodiment of the steering drive 6 and the transport rollers 2 with several chains 65. In all embodiments, the steering drive 6 is arranged below the module base plate 70 and serves to pivot all transport rollers 2 of a module around the second axis 24 by the same angle.

[0134] As in the Fig. 8 to Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the steering drive 6 in this embodiment consists of a connecting rod 60, which has a connecting section 61 and several bearing sections 62. A separate bearing section 62 is provided for each transport roller 2. The bearing sections 62 are rotatably connected to the connecting section 61. The bearing sections 62 are non-rotatably connected to the bearing axis 22 of the transport rollers 2 in order to pivot them through the desired angle.The rotationally fixed connection of the bearing section 62 to the transport rollers 2 and the rotatable connection of the bearing section 62 to the connecting section 61 allow an identical rotational movement of one transport roller 2 to be transmitted to the other transport rollers 2. This occurs because the rotational movement of the first transport roller 2, via the bearing section 61, causes a displacement of the connecting section 62 of the connecting rod 60, and this displacement of the connecting rod 60 transmits an identical rotational movement through the bearing sections 62 to the other transport rollers 2. The connecting section 61 and the bearing section 62 are connected to each other by a bolt 66.

[0135] An electric motor 63 is arranged under the module base plate to drive the transport rollers 2. The electric motor has an axle with two sprockets, which are arranged offset from each other vertically. The two sprockets of the electric motor 63 drive two rows of transport rollers 2 for steering about their second axis 24. For this purpose, the first transport roller 2 in each row has a sprocket 17 or a double sprocket 17 on its bearing axle 22. The rotation of the electric motor 63 is transmitted to the first transport roller 2 in each row via a chain. Steering the first transport roller 2 in each row, as described above, transmits the steering to the subsequent transport rollers 2 via the connecting rod 60.

[0136] In the exemplary embodiments of the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 The connecting section 61 of the connecting rod 60 is designed with projections on which the bearing sections 62 are arranged. These projections are guided in a circular motion around the bearing axis 22 during steering, with the web of the connecting section 61 acting as a stop against the bearing axis 22 when steering beyond a certain angle.

[0137] The Fig. 12 shows the first transport roller 2 of each row from the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. The Fig. 10 and Fig. Figure 11 shows the other transport rollers 2 of the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, wherein in Fig. Figure 11 illustrates the rotationally fixed mounting of the bearing section 62 with the bearing axis 22. The bearing section 62 is shown transparently. The bearing section 62 is connected to the bearing axis 22 via a groove connection. The transport rollers 2 in the Fig. 10 to Fig. 16 are designed as friction rollers.

[0138] The Fig. 13 to Fig. Figure 15 shows a second embodiment of a steering drive 6 with the transport rollers 2 used for this purpose. In this embodiment, the transport rollers 2 are located below the module base plate 70, as shown in Fig. 15 is shown, a sprocket 17 on. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, a chain 65 is arranged in such a way that all sprockets 17 are connected to each other. For the steering drive 6, as shown in Figure 13, a chain 65 is arranged in a single circumferential motion. Fig. 13 and Fig. Figure 18 shows an electric motor 63 arranged under the module base plate 70, which drives two transport rollers 2 via its axle and two sprockets. These transport rollers have a double sprocket 17 on their bearing axle 22. The steering of the two driven transport rollers 2 is transmitted to all other transport rollers 2 of the module by means of the circulating chain 65.

[0139] The transport roller 2 in Fig. 15 is shown as a friction roller with a sprocket 17, which is arranged on the bearing axis 22.

[0140] In the Fig. 16 and Fig. Figure 17 shows a third embodiment of a steering drive 6 with the transport rollers 2 used for this purpose. In this embodiment, all transport rollers 2 are equipped with double sprockets on their bearing axles 22. The double sprockets are arranged vertically offset from each other on the bearing axle 22. Two sprockets at the same height of two adjacent transport rollers 2 are connected to each other via a chain 65, thereby transmitting the steering of the first transport roller 2 to all other transport rollers 2 of the module 7. The first transport rollers 2 are driven by an electric motor with a double sprocket 17 arranged on its axle.

[0141] Fig. Figure 17 shows a transport roller 2 designed as a roller, with a double sprocket 17 on the bearing axle 22. The transport roller 2 of the Fig. 16 can also be designed as a friction roller according to one of the embodiments described here.

[0142] Fig. Figure 18 shows a conveying device with the package diverter 1 according to the invention. The conveying device represents a picking system for unit loads 4, in that the package diverter 1 is used to divert individual unit loads.

[0143] The unit load 4 is transported from left to right in the conveyor device and first passes through an aligner 81, which shifts the unit load 4 to the left or right side or to the center. Subsequently, a clocker 82 sets the minimum distance between two units loads. The unit load 4 then passes through a scanner 83, through which the unit load 4's information can be read, for example, for guidance at the parcel diverter 1. The scanner 83 can also be used to determine address data or to track the unit load. A conveyor belt 80 transports the unit load 4 further to the parcel diverter 1 according to the invention. In the exemplary embodiment, behind the parcel diverter 1, the Fig. Three conveyor belts 80 are arranged. The package diverter 1 transports the package 4 in the desired direction, i.e., here onto the left conveyor belt 80, the right conveyor belt 80, or the middle conveyor belt 80. Reference symbol list 1 parcel switch 2 transport rollers 3 cases 4 pieces of cargo 5 Conveyor drive 6 Steering drive Module 8 Support facility 14 Transport area 15 roll covers 16 Pressure axis 17 sprocket 20 rolls 21 roll holders 22 bearing axle 23 first axis 24 second axis 25 Basic section 26 Roll holder arm 27 attacks 28 springs 29 cables 30 Case side panel 31 Case bottom 51 Friction shaft 52 Friction shaft motor 60 Stabilizer link 61 Connecting section 62 Storage section 63 Steering drive motor 64 lead 65 chain 66 bolts 70 module base plate 71 module transport area 72 handle 73 Cable plate 74 frame 80 conveyor belt 81 organizers 82-stroke engine 83 scanners 84 recess 85 module nose

Claims

[1] Package diverter (1) for conveying and / or steering unit loads, comprising a housing (3) and several transport rollers (2) received in the housing (3) and driven by a motor for conveying and / or steering unit loads (4), wherein unit loads (4) rest on one or more transport rollers (2), and wherein the multiple transport rollers (2) are arranged in the housing (3) in one plane, preferably side by side and / or one behind the other, and wherein the transport rollers (2) each have a motor-driven roller (20), a roller holder (21) and a bearing axle (22), wherein the roller (20) is arranged on the roller holder (21) and the roller holder (21) is arranged on the bearing axle (22), and comprising a conveying drive (5) for conveying the unit load (4), which has a motor-driven friction shaft (51) on which the rollers (20) of several transport rollers (2) bear and are driven by the friction shaft (51) to rotate about a first axis (23) in order to convey the unit load (4), and comprising a steering drive (6) for steering the unit load (4), which pivots the bearing axes (22) of several of the transport rollers for steering the unit load (4) about a second axis (24) in order to steer a unit load (4), characterized by , that the rollers (20) are acted upon by a spring (28) in the direction of the friction shaft (51) and the transport rollers (2) are designed to be rotatable about their second axis (24) by at least 100°, preferably at least 110° or 120°, without the roller (20) losing contact with the friction shaft (51). [2] Parcel switch (1) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the roller (20) of a transport roller (2) is acted upon by a spring (28) in the direction of the friction shaft (51), preferably the spring (28) ensures the contact between roller (20) and friction shaft (51), especially also when the transport roller (2) pivots. [3] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the roller (20) is rotatably mounted about a roller axis, preferably that the roller axis is rotatably mounted in the roller (20) and fixedly mounted in the roller holder (21), or that the roller axis is fixedly held in the roller (20), in particular connected to the roller (20) in a rotationally fixed manner, and rotatably mounted in the roller holder (21). [4] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the roller holder (21) of a transport roller (2) is U-shaped with a base section (25) and two roller holder arms (26), wherein the roller holder arms (26) of the roller holder (21) have recesses for receiving a roller (20), preferably a roller axle. [5] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the recess in the roller holder arm (26) for receiving the roller (20) is open on the side in the direction of the friction shaft (51), in particular is open on one side. [6] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the roller (20) is designed to be mounted in the edge region of the roller holder arm (26) in the direction of the friction shaft (51), preferably in the edge region of the roller holder arm (26) at least at the level of the friction shaft (51), preferably it can be provided that for such a mounting the roller holder arm (26) has a recess, and / or the roller (20) is arranged offset towards the friction shaft (51) in the roller holder arm (26), and / or the roller holder arm (26) is arranged offset, preferably offset to the second axis (24). [7] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the roller axle is fixed in the recess in the roller holder (21), preferably the recess is undercut to allow the roller axle to be clipped in, preferably the roller axle has projections which engage in the recess to allow the roller axle to be clipped in. [8] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that for spring actuation the roller holder (21) is designed in two parts, wherein the roller holder arms (26) are arranged to be tiltable in the direction of the friction shaft (51) on the base section (25). [9] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that one or more stops (27) are formed on one or both roller holder arms (26) which interact with the base section (25) to allow spring action only up to the stop (27). [10] Packet switch (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the roller axis extends through the roller holder (21), preferably through the roller holder arms (26), or is designed to project beyond the roller holder (21), preferably through the roller holder arms (26). [11] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the surface of the roller (20) which interacts with the friction shaft (51) has stepped flat surfaces, preferably having flat surfaces at 0°, 20°, 40° and 60°, preferably that the flat surfaces form steps at 0°, 20°, 40° and 60°. [12] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the friction shaft (51) has a diameter of at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm, most preferably at least 3 cm. [13] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the conveying drive (5) has an electric friction shaft motor for driving the friction shaft (51). [14] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the friction shaft (51) is made of steel or plastic or rubber, preferably that the friction shaft (51) has at least one area made of steel or plastic or rubber which interacts with the rollers (20). [15] Packet switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the package diverter (1) for conveying and / or steering unit loads has several modules (7) arranged next to each other in the housing (3) in an interchangeable manner, wherein several motor-driven transport rollers (2) are arranged next to each other in each module (7).

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