Transfer and alignment module for packaging material and method for transferring and aligning packaging material and its use

Abstract

Transfer and alignment module (10) configured for the at least partially automated handling of batch-packed or separated packaging material (2) at a transfer point with a change of direction in an arrangement between two systems (20) of a production line (30), comprising: -a table (13) for transferring the packaging material (2); -a plurality of drivable transfer units (13.1) provided on the table, in particular transfer rollers or bearings; -at least one alignment unit (13.3) provided on the table, in particular with slide rails (13.4) for adjusting a lateral relative position; -at least one drive (14) and at least one drive and / or control component (18) from the following group: actuator (18.1), measuring transmitter (18.2), sensor (18.3); characterized in that the transfer and alignment module (10) has a first material transfer point (11.1) upstream of the table (13) and a second material transfer point (11.2) downstream of the table, wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) has a frame (12) supporting the table and rollers (17) and is thus mobile, wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) is designed in a modular manner and can be arranged relative to at least one system (20) for the at least partially automated handling, processing or production of the packaging material (2) in such a way that the transfer and alignment module (10) can be coupled to the system (20) in a modular manner for the packaging material transfer and for the alignment of the packaging material (2),wherein the transfer and alignment module has at least one control component which can be coupled to at least one signal of the system and by means of which at least one transfer parameter can be specified as a function of the operating state of the system, wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) is configured to scale from a first transfer speed or cycle rate to a second transfer speed or cycle rate.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a system component with a transfer and alignment function for at least partially automated handling of batch-packed or separated packaging material, in particular flat cartons, comprising: a table for transferring the packaging material; and a plurality of drivable transfer units provided on the table; and at least one alignment unit provided on the table; and at least one drive and at least one drive and / or control component from the following group: actuator, transducer, sensor. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for transferring and aligning packaging material, in particular flat cartons. Last but not least, the present invention also relates to the use of a transfer and alignment module on a single system or in a production line comprising several coordinated systems.In particular, the invention relates to a device and a method according to the preamble of the respective independent claim. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] When processing packaging material, particularly cardboard (e.g. flat cardboard), it is necessary to coordinate several processes such as gluing, folding, cutting and punching. This usually involves using individual systems which must be coordinated with one another, particularly with regard to cycle times and the highest possible output. Depending on the size of the series of a particular type of packaging material to be produced, the respective system must be readjusted after a short period of time. Due to different system manufacturers and different system generations, setting and coordinating the processes is associated with technical difficulties and is time-consuming and costly, particularly in more complex production lines or production lines with several systems arranged in series. This can include, for example, system downtime and the associated interruption in output.Last but not least, there are also liability issues when a service provider (e.g. maintenance service company) has to intervene in existing production lines.

[0003] According to the state of the art, transferring and alignment is manually assisted and / or enabled by coordinating (or configuring) the processes of multiple systems arranged in series or in sequence. Therefore, there is interest in improved or simplified adjustability in connection with the transfer and alignment of packaging material, especially cardboard boxes.

[0004] An example is publication US 9,492,984 B2, which describes a device for pretreating cardboard boxes, wherein the pretreatment includes, for example, bending, cutting, embossing, punching, printing, or exposure. The following publications also describe systems for processing cardboard boxes or similar packaging materials: JP H08-174 721 A, DE 10 2009 023 110 A1, DE 10 2008 047 265 A1, EP 3 406 550 A1, DE 34 03 623 A1.

[0005] Based on the state of the art, there is a need for new options to simplify material transfer at one or more system interfaces. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The object is to provide a device and a method with which the transfer and alignment of packaging material, in particular cardboard boxes (for example flat cardboard boxes), can be simplified. It is also the object to provide a transfer and alignment function such that the packaging material can be handled in the most flexible and variable way possible, especially in the case of fully automated handling for high volumes or high output. Last but not least, the object is to implement or design a transfer and alignment function in such a way that several systems in a production line with different sequential processes can be easily coordinated with one another, especially when the packaging material is to be transferred between systems in different states or with a changing state (in particular different alignment or shape of the packaging material) during the handling process.

[0007] This object is achieved by a transfer and alignment module that can be modularly coupled to the respective system according to claim 1, as well as by a method according to the independent method claim and by a use according to the independent use claim. Advantageous developments of the invention are explained in the respective subclaims. The features of the exemplary embodiments described below can be combined with one another unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0008] A transfer and alignment module is provided for the at least partially automated / automatable handling of batch-packed or separated packaging material, in particular flat cardboard boxes, at a transfer point with a change of direction in an arrangement between two systems of a production line, comprising: a table for transferring (guiding) the packaging material; and a plurality of drivable transfer units provided on the table, in particular transfer rollers or bearings; and at least one alignment unit provided on the table, in particular with slide rails for adjusting a lateral relative position; and at least one drive and at least one drive and / or control component from the following group: actuator, measuring sensor (in particular rotary encoder), sensor (in particular rotation angle or speed sensor); According to the invention,that the transfer and alignment module has a first material transfer point (material loading) upstream of the table and a second material transfer point (material transfer) downstream of the table, wherein the transfer and alignment module has a frame supporting the table and rollers or wheels and is thus mobile, wherein the transfer and alignment module is designed in a modular manner and is arranged / arrangable relative to at least one system for the at least partially automated handling, processing, or production of the packaging material in such a way that the transfer and alignment module for the packaging material transfer and for the alignment of the packaging material can be modularly coupled to the system, in particular directly upstream of the system. This provides a high degree of independence, flexibility, and variability, in particular without the need to intervene in existing production lines or processes.

[0009] The transfer and alignment module is configured to scale from a first transfer speed or cycle rate to a second transfer speed or cycle rate.

[0010] For example, it is possible to forego the implementation of a system-specific alignment function, or to save on the specialized personnel that would normally be required to insert and align the packaging material (at least for safety reasons). Last but not least, the present invention also expands the scope of possibilities in system design, because expanding / improving functionality does not necessarily require intervention in existing systems; instead, the additional functionality can be provided by means of an independent module. In this respect, the present invention is also based on the concept of outsourcing the (extended, optimized) functionality of systems to at least one additional independent module. This also facilitates retrofitting and, in general, the modernization and maintenance of production lines.

[0011] It has been demonstrated that the module allows for the transfer and alignment of batch-packed or separated packaging material, especially individual sheets of flat cardboard, in a particularly precise, flexible, and adaptable manner, independent of any system parameters. This simplifies process optimization, especially without requiring detailed knowledge of the respective system-specific processes.

[0012] The term “table” is understood to mean, in particular, an at least approximately flat device for storing and supporting the components for handling the packaging material.

[0013] The term “transfer unit” is understood to mean, in particular, a drivable component for moving the packaging material, whereby the transfer unit can optionally also comprise one or more actuators.

[0014] The term “alignment unit” is understood to mean, in particular, a unit configured to align the transferred or currently transferred packaging material.

[0015] A “sliding rail” is understood to mean, in particular, an element for the sliding movement and positioning of components for handling the packaging material, in particular with infinitely variable adjustment options.

[0016] The term “drive” is understood to mean, in particular, any type of controllable motor or actuator designed for the purposes described here.

[0017] The term “drive component” is understood to mean, in particular, a component that can be used or connected in conjunction with the drive to carry out the automation processes described here.

[0018] The term “control component” is understood to mean, in particular, any component or means related to the control and / or regulation processes described here.

[0019] The term “material transfer point” is understood to mean, in particular, a structurally predefined interface either upstream or downstream of the module, particularly designed for the transfer of individual cardboard boxes.

[0020] The transfer and alignment module can also be described as a mobile transfer and alignment module device that is energy-independent from the plant or production line.

[0021] Personified terms, unless formulated in the neuter, can refer to all genders within the scope of this disclosure. Any English-language expressions or abbreviations used herein are standard industry terms and are familiar to those skilled in the art in English. German-language terms used / usable synonymously can optionally be indicated here in (parentheses) for the sake of completeness, or vice versa.

[0022] According to the invention, the transfer and alignment module has at least one control component that can be coupled to at least one (control) signal of the system, by means of which at least one transfer parameter, comprising the transfer speed, can be specified as a function of the operating state of the system, in particular a measuring sensor coupled to the at least one drive of the transfer and alignment module, which is or can be brought into communication with the system (i.e. which is configured to record and transfer at least one measurement parameter or drive parameter from the system to the module). This simplifies adaptation to upstream and / or downstream processes, in particular also in the case of process variations of upstream systems; moreover, a safety function can also be implemented, for example with regard to system downtime.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the first material transfer point is defined by a free end of at least one upstream projecting transfer rail. According to one embodiment, the second material transfer point is defined by a free end of at least one downstream projecting transfer rail. This also facilitates a simple / lightweight (mechanical) coupling.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the table is variable in length at at least one of the material transfer points, in particular by means of at least one length-adjustable, in particular foldable or telescopic, transfer rail. This not least facilitates (local) adaptation of the material transfer point, particularly to the requirements of the system, in particular without requiring repositioning the module. The length variation can also be implemented depending on the specific application. The length variation is, for example, 10-25% or 10-50% of the absolute length of the movement path in the module. This also makes it possible to compensate for positional tolerances in / on production lines.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the table has at least two transfer rails aligned in the transfer direction, on which at least one drive component of the transfer and alignment module is provided, coupled to the drive, in particular at least one drive roller and / or at least one drive belt. This promotes expedient interaction with the packaging material to be transferred, particularly in the area of ​​support points of the packaging material on a / the transfer unit and / or on the table.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the alignment function of the transfer and alignment module aligns the transferred packaging material around the vertical axis and / or adjusts the movement path predefined for the transfer, particularly in the plane defined by the table. This can further improve functional integration, particularly with regard to fine-tuning between multiple systems on a production line.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the width of a transfer area defined by the alignment unit is adaptable to the width of the packaging material. According to one embodiment, the table has at least two transfer rails aligned in the transfer direction, at least one of which can be positioned transversely to the transfer direction with respect to a specific width of the table depending on the packaging material to be transferred. This facilitates variability with regard to numerous different packaging material types.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the alignment unit has at least one, preferably two slide rails, in particular slide rods, aligned at least approximately orthogonally to the transfer direction, on which the table can be adjusted or positioned laterally. The relative lateral position or alignment of the table or of the at least one slide rail can be adapted either manually or at least partially automatically to the type of packaging material and / or to the predefined movement path. For example, the slide rails or slide rods have an extension that is a factor of 2 to 4 greater than the width of the packaging material typically to be handled.This not only allows the module's relative position to be compensated for in relation to the system without having to relocate it, but also allows the module to be used for a variety of different products and for a variety of different systems / production lines. Experience has shown that the comparatively large width (extension perpendicular to the transfer direction) is not a disadvantage, even in very limited space in a machine shop.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the transfer and alignment module can be coupled (alone, exclusively) to the operating state of the system by means of a rotary encoder and is configured to mirror the operating state of the upstream system with regard to the transfer speed. It has been shown that the transfer can be implemented quite simply, without any noticeable control / regulation effort, using at least one such rotary encoder. This ensures a high degree of variability, and the use of the module according to the invention also enables a noticeable simplification in the optimization, modernization, or expansion of entire production lines.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the transfer and alignment module has a power supply and is energetically independent of the corresponding system of the production line to which the transfer and alignment module is coupled. This also increases / improves the autonomy and independence from systems or production lines. This further simplifies the use of the module.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the transfer and alignment module has a control device connected to the at least one drive and / or control component and is independent of the corresponding system of the production line to which the transfer and alignment module is / can be coupled. This increases the module's autonomy and can also broaden the spectrum of its possible applications (areas of use).

[0032] According to one embodiment, the maximum extension of the frame or other components supporting the table in the transfer direction is smaller than a factor of 1.5 than the maximum extension of the entire transfer and alignment module in the transfer direction, in particular smaller than a factor of 2 or even smaller than a factor of 2.5 or even smaller than a factor of 3. This also provides advantages with regard to the limited space between individual systems to be coupled or bridged within a production line. The overall design of production lines can advantageously be kept lean. Transfer times can be minimized, particularly thanks to short relocation paths (movement paths of the transferred material).

[0033] The previously defined object is also achieved in particular by a system for the at least partially automated handling, processing, or production of packaging material, in particular a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing, and / or folding, wherein the system has at least one transfer and alignment module as described above, wherein the transfer and alignment module is coupled to the system as a mobile module, namely upstream or downstream of the system. This results in the aforementioned advantages, in particular with regard to maintaining the system configuration thanks to the addition of at least one function provided externally by the module. Optionally, the system can also be easily retrofitted in this way.

[0034] The previously defined object is also achieved in particular by a production line with at least two systems for the at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular each with a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and / or folding, wherein the production line has at least one transfer and alignment module as described above, wherein the transfer and alignment module is coupled as a mobile module between the systems, namely downstream of a first of the systems and upstream of a second of the systems, namely in such a way that by means of the transfer and alignment module during material transfer, in particular during transfer of individual cardboard boxes, a synchronization of the speed and / or cycle rate of the transferred material also takes place.This results in the aforementioned advantages, particularly with regard to maintaining the configuration of a production line thanks to the addition of at least one function provided externally by the module (no functional implementation within the production line or plant required). Alternatively, it can also eliminate the need for skilled personnel continuously responsible for material transfer, thus significantly reducing long-term costs.

[0035] For example, the production line comprises a flat-packing machine / system (FKM or folding box gluing machine) and a feeding system for hot application of adhesives or the like (HST). For example, the HST is arranged upstream of the FKM. For example, the displacement path / movement path for the packaging material defined by the HST is aligned at least approximately orthogonally to the displacement path / movement path defined by the FKM, so that the transfer is provided at a point of a change of direction of approximately 90°, i.e., at the angle point of an angularly arranged production line. For packaging material that does not have a square base or a base that extends consistently in all directions, such a change of direction can also be associated with a variation in the cycle rate and / or transfer speed.For example, the packaging materials initially run longitudinally on the HST and are further displaced or transferred transversely at the angular / transfer point by a 90° change in direction, so that the transfer / displacement speed of the FKM can tend to be slower than the displacement speed of the HST. In such a configuration or with other speed variations, at least two speed-related control components can preferably be provided on the module, in particular a (first) rotary encoder relating to the parameter(s) of the HST and another (second) rotary encoder relating to the parameter(s) of the FKM.

[0036] The above-mentioned object is also achieved by a method according to the corresponding independent method claim, namely by a method for the at least partially automated transfer and alignment of packaging material, in particular flat cardboard boxes, packed or separated in batches, at a transfer point with a change of direction from a first material transfer point (material loading) upstream of a table to a second material transfer point (material forwarding) downstream of the table, wherein the packaging material is aligned during transfer on the table by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table, wherein the transfer is carried out by at least one drive and at least one drive and / or control component from the following group: actuator, measured value transmitter (in particular rotary encoder), sensor (in particular rotation angle or speed sensor);

[0037] According to the invention, the table for transferring and aligning is coupled modularly at the transfer point with a change of direction to a system, in particular in an arrangement on a mobile supporting frame with rollers or wheels, wherein for specifying at least one transfer parameter the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the system by means of at least one measured value sensor, in particular by means of a rotary encoder, wherein the operating state of the system is mirrored (adopted) with regard to the (identical) transfer speed or is scaled in an arrangement between two systems from a first transfer speed or cycle rate to a second transfer speed or cycle rate, wherein the packaging material is transferred as straight as possible through the module.This results in the aforementioned advantages, particularly with regard to automating material transfer upstream of a system or intermediately between systems of a production line. The method is preferably carried out using a transfer and alignment module described above, in particular by positioning the module upstream of the system or between systems and coupling it to the system upstream and / or downstream at least via a control component relating to the transfer speed.

[0038] The system can be a single system, particularly one located downstream, so that the transfer parameter is a transfer parameter specified by the further downstream process. However, multiple transfer parameters can also be processed, and they are / are specified both downstream and upstream by the module and taken into account by the module.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the at least one transfer parameter is specified using a rotary encoder, in particular for specifying a speed transfer parameter. The transfer function can also be additionally specified by additional measurement sensors. It has been shown that the use or implementation of at least one rotary encoder, in particular two rotary encoders (upstream and downstream), enables a particularly simple and efficient arrangement and integration of the module.

[0040] According to one embodiment, to specify at least one alignment parameter, a comparison is made with the alignment of a / the downstream system, in particular based on at least one angular alignment parameter. This facilitates optimization of alignment accuracy, for example, in connection with a width adjustment when adjusting the module to separate materials of different widths. The alignment function can also be provided or implemented independently of the feed function.

[0041] The above-mentioned object is also achieved by using a transfer and alignment module described above upstream of a system for at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material at a transfer point with a change of direction, in particular a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and / or folding, wherein the transfer and alignment module is modularly coupled to the system and thereby provides a material transfer point at which the packaging material is transferred from a table of the transfer and alignment module to the system, wherein the packaging material is aligned by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table, wherein the transfer is carried out by at least one drive and at least one drive and / or control component from the following group: actuator, measuring sensor (in particular rotary encoder),Sensor (in particular, a rotation angle or speed sensor); wherein, for specifying at least one transfer parameter, the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the system, wherein the operating state of the system is mirrored (adopted) by the transfer and alignment module for the material transfer point, with the packaging material being transferred through the module as linearly as possible. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, particularly with regard to simplified and less labor-intensive material supply.

[0042] The above-mentioned object is also achieved by using a transfer and alignment module described above between two systems of a production line for the at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material at a transfer point with a change of direction, in particular between systems for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and / or folding, wherein the transfer and alignment module is coupled modularly between the systems and thereby provides a first material transfer point upstream and a second material transfer point downstream, at which the packaging material is transferred to and from a table of the transfer and alignment module from / to the corresponding system, wherein the packaging material is aligned by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table,wherein the transfer is carried out by at least one drive and at least one drive and / or control component from the following group: actuator, measured value sensor (in particular rotary encoder), sensor (in particular angle of rotation or speed sensor); wherein, to specify at least one transfer parameter, in particular at least two transfer parameters, the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the systems, wherein the operating state of the systems is mirrored (adopted) by the transfer and alignment module for the corresponding material transfer point, wherein the packaging material is transferred through the module as linearly as possible. This enables the aforementioned advantages to be realized, in particular with regard to simplified and less labor-intensive material transfer between two systems, in particular without the need for process adaptation at the respective system.

[0043] Summary: When handling and processing packaging material, it is necessary to coordinate several processes such as gluing, folding, cutting and punching. For this purpose, individual systems are usually used which must be coordinated with one another, in particular with regard to the cycle rate and the highest possible output. Depending on the size of the series to be produced for the respective type of packaging material (e.g. 1,000 pieces or 100,000 pieces), the respective system must be readjusted after a short time. The present invention relates to a modular, stand-alone system component with a transfer and alignment function for handling packaging material, comprising: a table for transferring the packaging material and with transfer units and with an alignment unit and with a drive and at least one drive and / or control component. According to the invention, the system component is provided as a stand-alone module.Furthermore, the present invention relates to the methods and uses described in the description part, each in connection with the transfer and alignment of packaging material, in particular flat cardboard boxes, in particular in a production line comprising several systems to be coordinated with one another. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS

[0044] The invention is described in more detail in the following drawing figures. Reference numbers not explicitly described in a particular drawing figure refer to the other drawing figures. They show: Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B, Fig. 1C, Fig. 1D shows different views of a transfer and alignment module according to an embodiment; Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B each shows a perspective view of a transfer and alignment module according to an embodiment; Fig. 3 shows a top view of a production line with an integrated or intermediate transfer and alignment module according to an embodiment; Fig. 4 shows a side view in schematic representation of a transfer and alignment module according to an embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0045] The invention will first be explained with general reference to all reference numerals and figures. Special features or individual aspects of the present invention, or aspects that are clearly visible / depictable in the respective figure, will be addressed individually in connection with the respective figure.

[0046] A transfer and alignment module 10 for handling separated packaging material 2, in particular flat cardboard(s), is configured to transfer the packaging material 2 at at least one material transfer point 11, in particular both at a first material transfer point upstream 11.1 of a first system 31.1 (receiving separated packaging material from an upstream system) and at a second material transfer point downstream 11.2 of the module and upstream of a downstream second system 31.2 (transferring transferred packaging material to a downstream system). The transfer and alignment module 10 comprises a frame 12 with a support unit 12.1, in particular height-adjustable or height-adaptable, wherein height-adjustable feet 12.2 enable adjustment of the height position of a table 13 of the module 10. Table 13 also defines a movement plane Exy for the separated packaging material in the module, using transfer units 13.1 and transfer rails 13.2, the separated packaging material 2 can be actively transferred, whereby several actuators 18.1 and / or sensors 18.3 can be used.

[0047] By means of at least one alignment unit 13.3, alignment and positioning can optionally also be carried out transversely to the (main) displacement direction x, for example by carrying out transverse positioning by means of slide rails 13.4 (either manually or in an automated manner).

[0048] The interaction of drive and / or control components 18, in particular actuators 18.1, measuring sensors 18.2 (in particular rotary encoders) and sensors 18.3 (in particular angle of rotation or speed sensors), can be organized by means of at least one drive 14 and a control device 15.

[0049] The module 10 can be provided independently of other system components via an energy supply 16 (or energy feed or feed-in point), and wheels 17 of the module enable relocation without further aids, either manually or by a module-specific drive (14; 18.1).

[0050] The module 10 is arranged, for example, upstream of a single system 20, particularly for cutting, gluing, and folding cardboard boxes. Optionally, the module 10 is arranged intermediately in a production line 30 downstream of a first system 30.1 (in particular, a feeding system for hot application of adhesives or the like (HST)) and upstream of a second system 30.2 (in particular, a flat cardboard machine / system (FKM or folding box gluing machines)). The individual systems 30.1, 30.2 of the production line 30 can form an angle 31 or define a change of direction at the transfer point (in particular, approximately 90°).

[0051] The movement path Mxy of the separated packaging material 2 in module 10 is, for example, straight and arranged entirely in a horizontal plane. Optionally, a gradient can also be implemented.

[0052] Module 10 can be mechanically interposed into a production line by defining a first coupling interface P1 (upstream plant-related docking point) and a second coupling interface P2 (downstream plant-related docking point). Signaling or control coupling is achieved, for example, via at least one rotary encoder.

[0053] The following directions and measurements are provided for easier orientation: Longitudinal direction x, in particular horizontal, in particular corresponding to the transfer / displacement direction; Longitudinal extension x10 (length) of the module; Longitudinal extension x12 of the housing or frame; Longitudinal extension x12.1 of the carrier unit; Longitudinal extension x13 of the table; Transverse direction y, in particular horizontal; Transverse extension (width) y10 of the module; Transverse extension (width) y13 of the table; Transverse extension (width) y13.3 of the alignment unit; Height direction z, in particular vertical / perpendicular; Vertical extension (height) z10 of the module; Height z13 of the table; Height position z13.1 of the transfer unit;

[0054] The respective coupling interfaces P1, P2 can optionally be purely mechanical. This means that an energy or control / regulation coupling is not necessarily required, apart from any encoder / speed parameters.

[0055] In the following, individual aspects are explained with specific reference to individual figures.

[0056] In the Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B, Fig. 1C, Fig. 1D shows individual components of module 10. The movement path Mxy corresponds to the x-axis (longitudinal direction) in the illustrated orientation. In Fig. 1C shows an example of an isolated packaging material 2.

[0057] Regarding the Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B, the optional joint 13.21 or a correspondingly effective folding or telescopic mechanism on the respective transfer rail is worth mentioning. This facilitates length adjustment, especially for completely bridging a gap between two systems on a production line.

[0058] In Fig. Figure 3 shows a top view of a production line 30 with two systems 30.1, 30.2. The movement path 21 of the packaging material 2 in each system is rectilinear. The two systems (or their feed directions / axes) are aligned at an angle 31 of approximately 90° to each other, so that a change of direction (in particular approximately 90°) occurs at the transfer point (or directly upstream or downstream of module 10). A change of direction within the module is not intended and is not particularly advantageous; rather, it is desired that the packaging material 2 can be transferred as straight as possible through the module 10 without having to noticeably change the orientation of the packaging material 2.

[0059] In Fig.For the sake of completeness, Figure 4 shows drive and control components and sensory components or other components relating to the independence of module 10, as they can be implemented in the previously described embodiments: at least one drive 14, a control device 15, a power supply 16, drive and / or control components 18, in particular from the following group: actuators 18.1, measured value sensors 18.2 (in particular rotary encoders), sensors (18.3), in particular angle of rotation or speed sensors. Their arrangement and coupling can be individually adapted for each application / use, if necessary at all.

[0060] From the figures it can be seen that the module 10 essentially defines two axes of movement, namely on the one hand the transfer / feed axis (or direction) in the longitudinal direction, and on the other hand, transversely thereto, the adjustment possibility in the y-direction for setting the width of the transfer and / or alignment unit, or for positioning the transfer and / or alignment unit transversely to the feed direction (at least partially alignment function). List of reference symbols 2 isolated packaging material, especially flat cardboard boxes 10 Transfer and alignment module 11 Material transfer point 11.1 First material transfer point upstream (acceptance of individual packaging material) 11.2 second material transfer point downstream (transfer of transferred packaging material) 12 frames 12.1 Support unit, in particular height-adjustable or height-adaptable 12.2 height-adjustable stand 13 Table 13.1 Transfer unit 13.2 Transfer rail 13.21 Articulated or folding or telescopic mechanism transfer rail 13.3 Alignment unit 13.4 Slide rail 14 Drive 15 Control device 16 Energy supply 17 wheels of the module 18 Drive and / or control component 18.1 Actuator 18.2 Measuring sensors, especially rotary encoders 18.3 Sensor, in particular angle of rotation or speed sensor 20 Machine, especially for cutting, gluing, folding cardboard boxes 21 Movement path in the facility (especially straight line) 30 production lines 30.1 first system, in particular upstream of the second system, in particular supply system for hot application of adhesives or the like (HST) 30.2 second installation, in particular downstream of the first installation, in particular flat cardboard machine / installation (FKM or folding box gluing machines) 31 Angle or change of direction (especially approx. 90°) on movement path in production line Exy Movement plane of the separated packaging material in the module Mxy Movement path of the separated packaging material in the module P1 first coupling interface (plant-related docking point upstream) P2 second coupling interface (downstream plant docking point) x Longitudinal direction, in particular horizontal, in particular transfer direction x10 longitudinal extension (length) of the module x12 Longitudinal extension of housing or frame x12.1 Longitudinal extension of the carrier unit x13 Longitudinal extension table y transverse direction, especially horizontal y10 Transverse extension (width) of the module y13 Transverse extension (width) of the table y13.3 Transverse extension (width) of the alignment unit z Height direction, especially vertical z10 Vertical extension (height) of the module z13 Height of the table z13.1 Height of the transfer unit

Claims

[1] Transfer and alignment module (10) configured for the at least partially automated handling of batch-packed or separated packaging material (2) at a transfer point with a change of direction in an arrangement between two systems (20) of a production line (30), comprising: -a table (13) for transferring the packaging material (2); -a plurality of drivable transfer units (13.1) provided on the table, in particular transfer rollers or bearings; -at least one alignment unit (13.3) provided on the table, in particular with slide rails (13.4) for adjusting a lateral relative position; -at least one drive (14) and at least one drive and / or control component (18) from the following group: actuator (18.1), measuring transmitter (18.2), sensor (18.3); characterized bythat the transfer and alignment module (10) has a first material transfer point (11.1) upstream of the table (13) and a second material transfer point (11.2) downstream of the table, wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) has a frame (12) supporting the table and rollers (17) and is thus mobile, wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) is designed in a modular manner and can be arranged relative to at least one system (20) for the at least partially automated handling, processing or production of the packaging material (2) in such a way that the transfer and alignment module (10) can be coupled modularly to the system (20) for the packaging material transfer and for the alignment of the packaging material (2), wherein the transfer and alignment module has at least one control component that can be coupled to at least one signal from the system, by means of which control component at least one transfer parameter can be specified depending on the operating state of the system,wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) is configured to scale from a first transfer speed or cycle rate to a second transfer speed or cycle rate., [2] Transfer and alignment module according to claim 1, wherein the transfer and alignment module has at least one control component which can be coupled to at least one signal of the system, by means of which at least one transfer parameter comprising the transfer speed can be specified as a function of the operating state of the system, in particular a measuring sensor which is coupled to the at least one drive of the transfer and alignment module and which is or can be brought into communication with the system. [3] Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first material transfer point is defined by a free end of at least one upstream projecting transfer rail; and / or wherein the second material transfer point is defined by a free end of at least one downstream projecting transfer rail; and / or wherein the table is variable in length at at least one of the material transfer points, in particular by means of at least one length-variable, in particular foldable or telescopic transfer rail. [4] Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the table has at least two transfer rails aligned in the transfer direction, on which at least one drive component of the transfer and alignment module coupled to the drive is provided, in particular at least one drive roller and / or at least one drive belt. [5] Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein by means of the alignment function of the transfer and alignment module, an alignment of the transferred packaging material about the vertical axis and / or an adjustment of the movement path predefined for the transfer takes place, in particular in the plane defined by the table; and / or wherein the width of a transfer area defined by the alignment unit is adaptable to the width of the packaging material; and / or wherein the table has at least two transfer rails aligned in the transfer direction, of which at least one can be positioned transversely to the transfer direction with respect to a specific width of the table depending on the packaging material to be transferred. [6] Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the alignment unit has at least one, preferably two slide rails, in particular slide bars in an orientation at least approximately orthogonal to the transfer direction, on which the table can be adjusted or positioned in the lateral direction, wherein the relative lateral position or orientation of the table or of the at least one slide rail can be adapted either manually or at least partially automatically to the type of packaging material and / or to the predefinable movement path. [7] Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer and alignment module can be coupled to the operating state of the system by means of a rotary encoder and is designed to mirror the operating state of the upstream system with regard to the transfer speed. [8] Transfer and alignment module according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer and alignment module has a power supply and is energetically independent of a / the corresponding system of the production line to which the transfer and alignment module can be coupled; and / or wherein the transfer and alignment module has a control device connected to the at least one drive and / or control component and is control / regulation-technically independent of a / the corresponding system of the production line to which the transfer and alignment module can be coupled. [9] Plant (20) for the at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular a plant for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and / or folding, wherein the plant has at least one transfer and alignment module (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) is coupled to the plant as a mobile module, namely upstream or downstream of the plant. [10] Production line (30) with at least two systems (20) for the at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material, in particular each with a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and / or folding, wherein the production line has at least one transfer and alignment module (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the transfer and alignment module (10) is coupled as a mobile module between the systems, namely downstream of a first of the systems and upstream of a second of the systems, namely in such a way that by means of the transfer and alignment module during material transfer, a synchronization of the speed and / or cycle rate of the transferred material also takes place. [11] Method for the at least partially automated transfer and alignment of packaging material packed or separated in batches at a transfer point with a change of direction from a first material transfer point upstream of a table to a second material transfer point downstream of the table, wherein the packaging material is aligned during transfer on the table by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table, wherein the transfer is carried out by at least one drive and at least one drive and / or control component from the following group: actuator, measuring transmitter, sensor; characterized bythat the table for transferring and aligning is coupled modularly at the transfer point with a change of direction to a system (20), in particular in an arrangement on a mobile supporting frame with rollers, wherein in order to specify at least one transfer parameter the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the system by means of at least one measuring sensor, wherein the operating state of the system is mirrored with regard to the transfer speed or, in an arrangement between two systems, is scaled from a first transfer speed or cycle rate to a second transfer speed or cycle rate, wherein the packaging material (2) is transferred as straight as possible through the module (10). [12] Method according to the preceding method claim, wherein the specification of the at least one transfer parameter is carried out by means of a rotary encoder, in particular for specifying a speed transfer parameter. [13] Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein, in order to specify at least one alignment parameter, a comparison is made with the alignment of a / the downstream system, in particular based on at least one angular alignment parameter. [14] Use of a transfer and alignment module according to one of claims 1 to 8 upstream of a system for at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material at a transfer point with a change of direction, in particular a system for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and / or folding, wherein the transfer and alignment module is coupled to the system in a modular manner and thereby provides a material transfer point at which the packaging material is transferred from a table of the transfer and alignment module to the system, wherein the packaging material is aligned by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table, wherein the transfer is carried out by at least one drive and at least one drive and / or control component from the following group: actuator, measuring transmitter, sensor;wherein, in order to specify at least one transfer parameter, the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the system, wherein the operating state of the system is mirrored by the transfer and alignment module for the material transfer point, wherein the packaging material (2) is transferred as straight as possible through the module (10); [15] Use of a transfer and alignment module according to one of claims 1 to 8 between two systems of a production line for the at least partially automated handling or processing or production of packaging material at a transfer point with a change of direction, in particular between systems for processing cardboard packaging material by cutting, gluing and / or folding, wherein the transfer and alignment module is coupled modularly between the systems and thereby provides a first material transfer point upstream and a second material transfer point downstream, at which the packaging material is transferred to and from a table of the transfer and alignment module from / to the corresponding system, wherein the packaging material is aligned by means of at least one alignment unit provided on the table,wherein the transfer is carried out by at least one drive and at least one drive and / or control component from the following group: actuator, transducer, sensor; wherein, for specifying at least one transfer parameter, in particular at least two transfer parameters, the at least one drive is coupled to the operating state of the systems, wherein the operating state of the systems is mirrored by the transfer and alignment module for the corresponding material transfer point, wherein the packaging material (2) is transferred as straight as possible through the module (10).

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