Device and method for unpacking an optical workpiece and its use

Abstract

A device, a method, and an application for the automated unpacking of lens blanks are proposed, wherein an opening element engages a side flap and then unfolds it, enabling the automated opening of various packages. If required, one side of the package can also be automatically torn open. Furthermore, various inner packages are automatically removed.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for unpacking an optical workpiece, in particular a lens blank for a spectacle lens, according to the preamble of claim 1 or 6, a method for unpacking an optical workpiece, in particular a lens blank for a spectacle lens, according to the preamble of claim 12 and a use of such a device for unpacking an optical workpiece, in particular a lens blank for a spectacle lens.

[0002] In automated production processes, especially in the manufacture or processing of ophthalmic lenses, automated unpacking of optical workpieces, especially lens blanks, contributes to cost-effective production.

[0003] EP 3 819 092 A1 discloses a device and method for unpacking a lens blank from a box-shaped package, wherein the package is cut or sawed open, in particular on opposite sides. This can lead to unwanted dust, which adversely affects the production process. Furthermore, there is a risk that the intended separation of a portion of the package could damage the lens blank or an inner package additionally holding the lens blank.

[0004] EP 4 173 979 A1 discloses a device and method for unpacking a lens blank, wherein the packaging is cut open using a laser. Here, too, undesirable contamination, particularly particles or gaseous contamination, can occur, which adversely affect the manufacturing process or require additional cleaning steps.

[0005] The different packaging options available on the market are also problematic. Depending on the manufacturer or supplier, the workpieces are packaged differently. Typically, the (outer) packaging is designed as a cuboid-shaped box, for example, which is closed with a tuck-in flap on one side, particularly a narrow side, or on opposite sides or narrow sides. Alternatively or additionally, the packaging or box can also be tearable on one side, particularly the flat side.

[0006] In addition, the workpiece is usually additionally held by an inner packaging, such as an inner support structure, a packaging tray, a blister or the like, and / or provided with an (additional) wrapping, such as a particularly folded cover, a pocket or the like.

[0007] The present invention is based on the object of specifying a device, a method and a use for automated unpacking which enable - at least largely - contamination-free opening of the packaging and / or are universally applicable - in particular also with different outer and / or inner packaging.

[0008] The above object is achieved by a device according to claim 1 or 6, by a method according to claim 12 or by a use according to claim 17. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0009] The present invention fundamentally relates to the unpacking of an optical workpiece, in particular an optical lens blank or ophthalmic lens, particularly preferably for ophthalmic lens production or processing. For the sake of simplicity, the term "workpiece" will be referred to below.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, the device preferably comprises an opening device with an opening element for laterally inserting it under a side flap of the packaging or engaging under the side flap and / or for unfolding the side or side flap of the packaging. In particular, the opening element is wedge-shaped. This allows the packaging to be opened without cutting or sawing and thus prevents unwanted dust formation. In particular, a plug-in closure of the packaging with a plug-in flap can be opened in a simple and defined manner.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, the device preferably comprises two opening devices for opening opposite sides of the packaging, an adjusting device and / or a measuring device for automatically adjusting the distance between the two opening devices or their opening elements to the packaging to be opened and / or for automatically adjusting the position of an opening device to a side to be opened. This enables automated adaptation to the respective packaging or box, so that, for example, tolerance deviations can be compensated for even with essentially the same packaging size, but also different packaging sizes can be opened automatically and easily.

[0012] According to a separate, also independently implementable aspect of the present invention, the device comprises an opening device for tearing open a side or flat side or top of the packaging. Preferably, the opening device is provided with a pincer-like gripping device or clamping device and / or an opening device is designed for first opening the packaging laterally and then tearing open, in particular an adjoining flat side. This enables defined opening, in particular even of packages that are already perforated or otherwise prepared for tearing open a side.

[0013] According to a further aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, the device preferably comprises an unpacking device for rolling the preferably circular disk-shaped workpiece along its edge to detach a wrapping from the workpiece. Additionally, the detachment or removal of the wrapping, which is particularly formed by a folded cover or the like, is preferably assisted by a compressed air stream and / or suction. This enables a surprisingly simple and efficient separation of the wrapping and the workpiece.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, the device is preferably designed for the automated opening of different packaging variants or packages of different sizes and / or for the automated unpacking of differently packaged workpieces. In particular, the device has different opening stations or opening devices that are adapted or designed to open different packages. This enables universal use of the device.

[0015] A proposed method for unpacking an optical workpiece is characterized in particular by the fact that a tuck-in flap of a package is automatically pulled out and / or a side flap is grasped under and opened using an opening device. This enables contamination-free opening and avoids the risk of damage to the packaging contents, in particular the workpiece or any inner packaging.

[0016] Another method aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, lies in particular in the fact that one side of the packaging of the workpiece is torn open, in particular with an adjacent side or side flap being opened beforehand and used for tearing. This in turn enables a very simple, defined, and efficient opening with minimized contamination and without the risk of damage to the workpiece.

[0017] Another aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, lies in the fact that the position of an opening device is automatically adjusted to the actual position of a side or side flap to be opened. This facilitates automated and precise opening of the packaging, while effectively preventing unwanted damage to the workpiece.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, a wrapping around the workpiece is removed, preferably by rolling the workpiece along its edge and optionally additionally by an air stream. Tests have shown that this allows for very efficient removal in a simple manner.

[0019] Particularly preferably, a proposed device is used for unpacking an optical workpiece, wherein different outer packagings of the workpiece are opened using the same device, and / or wherein the workpieces are removed from differently constructed inner packagings using the same device, and / or wherein an outer packaging is first opened using the same device and then the workpiece is removed from an inner packaging. This enables automated unpacking of even differently packaged workpieces in a very efficient manner.

[0020] The aspects and features mentioned and those resulting from the following description can be implemented independently of one another, but can also be implemented in any combination.

[0021] Additional advantages, features, characteristics, and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of a preferred embodiment with reference to the drawings. It shows: Fig. 1 a schematic plan view of a proposed device for unpacking a workpiece from a package; Fig. 2A shows a schematic section of the packaging according to a first embodiment variant with a receiving tray or a blister as inner packaging; Fig. 2B shows a schematic section of the packaging according to a second embodiment variant with a wrapper as inner packaging; Fig. 2C shows a schematic section of the packaging according to a third embodiment variant with a tear-open side and an optional holding structure as inner packaging; Fig. 3 a perspective view of a loading device, turning device and positioning device of the proposed device; Fig. 4A is a schematic perspective view of an opening station with two opening devices of the proposed device; Fig. 4B is a schematic view of two opening elements of the opening devices; Fig. 4C is a perspective view of an opening element; Fig. 5 a schematic perspective view of a transfer device of the proposed device when picking up a workpiece from the packaging; Fig. 6 a schematic side view of a separating device of the proposed device during the removal of an inner packaging; Fig. 7A is a schematic perspective view of an unpacking device of the proposed device in a working position; Fig. 7B is a schematic rear view of the unpacking device; Fig. 8 a schematic perspective view of another opening station with another opening device of the proposed device; Fig. 9A is a simplified schematic representation of the other opening device when the package is closed; and Fig. 9B a simplified schematic representation of the other opening device when the package is opened.

[0022] In the figures, some of which are not to scale or are only schematic, the same reference symbols are used for similar or identical parts, whereby corresponding or similar properties and advantages are achieved, even if a repeated description is omitted.

[0023] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic plan view of a proposed device 1 for unpacking optical workpieces 2, in particular lens blanks or spectacle lenses, particularly preferably for spectacle lens production or processing. For the sake of simplicity, only one workpiece will be referred to below.

[0024] The workpiece 2 is preferably made of plastic, but may also be made of glass or the like.

[0025] The workpiece 2 preferably has a diameter of several centimeters, in particular more than 3 cm.

[0026] The device 1 and the proposed method and use serve in particular to unpack or remove the workpiece 2 from a packaging 3.

[0027] The packaging 3 preferably comprises an outer packaging or outer packaging 4 and optionally an inner packaging or inner packaging 5, as shown in the schematic sections according to Fig. 2A to 2C, which show different design variants of the packaging 3.

[0028] The packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is in particular at least substantially cuboid-shaped and / or box-like and / or made of cardboard or paper.

[0029] The packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 preferably has an at least substantially square base area or flat side or base side 4A and / or preferably at least substantially rectangular sides or narrow sides 4B.

[0030] The packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is preferably designed as a flat cuboid, the height of which is preferably less than half of the longest side edge of the base area 4A of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4.

[0031] The packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is or one or more opposite sides or narrow sides 4B of the outer packaging 4 is or are preferably (each) closed via a plug-in closure or a plug-in flap 4C in the example shown.

[0032] The tuck-in flap 4C keeps, in particular, an adjoining side flap 4D closed when the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is unopened.

[0033] Instead of a plug-in closure or the insertion flap 4C, the side flap 4D can alternatively or additionally be kept closed in another way, for example by an adhesive element, an adhesive bond or the like.

[0034] When the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is closed, the side flap 4D to be opened forms in particular a side or narrow side 4B of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4.

[0035] For the design variants according to the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B, the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is preferably openable on two opposite sides or narrow sides 4B or is provided with a plug-in closure or an openable side flap 4D and / or insert flap 4C.

[0036] In the third variant according to Fig. 2C, the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is preferably to be opened only on one side or narrow side 4B or is provided with the openable side flap 4D or insert flap 4C.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 according to the third embodiment preferably has a tear-open side or openable flat side or lid side or top side 4E.

[0038] Particularly preferably, the openable or foldable side flap 4D is connected to the side or flat side 4E, which can be opened, in particular by tearing, in particular via a fold or bend 4F. However, other structural designs are also possible.

[0039] In Fig. 2C, a partially opened state of the side flap 4D and top 4E is indicated by dashed lines.

[0040] Optionally, a side wall (not shown) of the packaging 3 can also be provided behind the side flap 4D which can be folded up or down, so that the workpiece 2 can be removed when the packaging 3 is opened, even if, for example, the inner packaging 5 or inner structure 5C is not present. Fig. 2C cannot slip out to the left.

[0041] The openable or tearable side or top side 4E does not have to cover the entire surface of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4, but can also form only a partially openable lid or section or the like of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4. The same preferably also applies to the otherwise openable sides or side flaps 4D in all design variants according to Fig. 2A to 2C.

[0042] The packaging 3 optionally also has an inner packaging 5, which is in particular accommodated by the outer packaging 4 and / or can possibly be formed by it.

[0043] In the first variant according to Fig. 2A, the inner packaging 5 is preferably designed as a packaging tray or blister 5A.

[0044] In the first embodiment, the inner packaging 5 is preferably designed in such a way that the workpiece 2 is exposed with a flat side 2A, in particular to be machined - in Fig. 2A points upwards - or the inner packaging 5 - of course only after opening or removing the outer packaging 4 - can be removed.

[0045] The inner packaging 5 or packaging tray or blister 5A preferably holds the workpiece 2 essentially only on the round side or not on a finished side 2B (here underside) and / or in such a way that the already finished flat side 2B of the workpiece 2 is covered by the inner packaging 5 or kept at a distance or protected against external influences or damage or contamination.

[0046] In the second variant according to Fig. 2B, the inner packaging 5 is preferably formed by or comprises a wrapping 5B. The wrapping 5B is designed, in particular, as a folded cover, a folded piece of material, a soft or padded mat or bubble wrap, a pocket, or the like. Here, too, the inner packaging 5 or wrapping 5B ensures that the workpiece 2 is protected from damage or other influences, such as contamination, particularly on its optionally already finished flat side 2B.

[0047] In the third variant according to Fig. 2C, the inner packaging 5, which is only optionally provided, is preferably formed by an inner structure 5C, which holds the workpiece 2 in such a way that it can be removed after opening the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4, in particular the lid or the top side 4E.

[0048] The exemplary embodiments show different packaging variants, in particular different packaging 3 or different outer packaging or outer packaging 4 and different inner packaging or inner packaging 5.

[0049] Particularly preferably, the device 1, the proposed method and the proposed use are designed or provided for the automated unpacking of different packages 3, outer packages 4 and / or inner packages 5 in the aforementioned sense and / or also for the automated unpacking of packages 3, outer packages 4 and / or inner packages 5 of different sizes, so that the device 1 and the method can be used universally.

[0050] The device 1 is preferably assigned a conveyor device 10 for supplying workpieces 2 to be unpacked or packages 3 containing the workpieces 2 and / or for conveying away unpacked workpieces 2. The conveyor device 10 can optionally also form part of the device 1.

[0051] The conveyor device 10 is particularly preferably designed as an endless conveyor, conveyor belt or belt conveyor.

[0052] The conveyor device 10 preferably extends along one side of the device 1.

[0053] The workpieces 2 or packages 3 to be unpacked are preferably fed or conveyed on or in transport carriers 11 by means of the conveyor device 10. Particularly preferably, the transport carriers 11 are designed as transport boxes and / or each serve to hold two workpieces 2 and / or packages 3.

[0054] Preferably, the transport carriers 11 are also used to transport away unpacked workpieces 2.

[0055] The conveying direction or main extension direction of the conveying device 10 preferably runs parallel to one side of the device 1 or in an X-direction and / or horizontally.

[0056] Optionally, the conveyor device 10 is connected to the device 1 via connections 12.

[0057] Fig. 1 provides a schematic overview of a particularly preferred structure of the proposed device 1.

[0058] The device 1 preferably comprises a loading device 20, a positioning device 30, a turning device 40, a transfer device 50, a separating device 60, an unpacking device 70, a dispensing device 80, a (first) opening station 100 and / or a (different or second) opening station 200.

[0059] The device 1 or loading device 20 is preferably designed to pick up the packaging 3 with a workpiece 2 from the conveyor device 10 or a transport carrier 11 and / or to convey or transfer it to the positioning device 30, the turning device 40 and / or to a transfer position P1.

[0060] Fig. 3 schematically shows a section of the device 1 in the area of ​​the loading device 20, positioning device 30 and turning device 40.

[0061] The loading device 20 preferably has a loading manipulator 21, in particular with a suction cup 22 or other holding element, in order to be able to grasp or pick up the packaging 3 with the workpiece 2.

[0062] Preferably, the packaging 3 can be lifted by means of the loading manipulator 21 and, in particular, optionally rotatable about a particularly vertical axis.

[0063] In the illustrated example, the holding member or suction cup 22 is movable in particular in the vertical direction or Z direction for lifting and depositing the packaging 3, movable in the horizontal direction or Y direction (in particular transversely to the conveying direction X) and optionally rotatable about the vertical axis (Z direction).

[0064] In particular, the loading manipulator 21 or suction cup 22 can be moved or displaced linearly or in the Y direction via a slide guide 23 and / or linearly or in the Z direction via a slide guide 24.

[0065] The device 1 or loading device 20 or the loading manipulator 21 preferably has a detection device 25, in particular a camera, for detecting or reading a marking 3A of the packaging 3, as in Fig. 3. In particular, optical detection is performed. The marking 3A is, for example, a barcode. However, another marking and, alternatively or additionally, an RFID chip can also be used for identification, the information from which is detected or read, for example, via the detection device 25.

[0066] The data and information provided by an external system, such as a Lens Management System (LMS), by an information carrier (not shown) on or in the transport carrier 11 and / or available due to the input-side recording, indicate in particular how the respective workpiece 2 is constructed and / or packaged, i.e. in particular which packaging variant it is or which packaging size, outer packaging 4 and / or inner packaging 5 is present and possibly also, for example, how the workpiece 2 is oriented in the packaging 3 and / or the packaging 3 is oriented during conveyance, for example on or in the transport carrier 11. This is beneficial for automated and reliable unpacking, wherein the proposed device 1 and the proposed method in particular enable unpacking from different packaging variants or packaging 3.

[0067] Optionally, the device 1 can check, or optionally be checked as a process step, whether a workpiece 2 or several workpieces 2 with the correct marking 3A—i.e., the correct workpieces 2—are present in a transport carrier 11 according to the information carrier of the respective transport carrier 11 and / or according to the data of the system or LMS. Incorrect workpieces 2 can thus be identified and, for example, sorted out.

[0068] Optionally, however, the device 1 is designed in such a way that even without additional or external information, the respective packaging variant and orientation of the packaging 3 can be detected and thus automated unpacking is possible.

[0069] The depositing or transfer of the packaging 3 takes place - in particular to the positioning device 30 and / or turning device 40 and / or opening station 100 or 200 - here preferably in the transfer position P1.

[0070] Fig. 3 shows a packaging 3 still in the transport carrier 11 before removal as well as a packaging 3 in the transfer position P1.

[0071] In the illustrated example, the device 1 or the loading device 20 preferably has a carrier 26 for depositing or transferring the packaging 3, which Fig. 3 only hinted at, but in Fig. 8 is more clearly visible in a shifted position.

[0072] The positioning device 30 serves for a defined alignment of the packaging 3 and is preferably designed such that the packaging 3 is aligned at a corner, i.e. over two sides or narrow sides 4B enclosing an angle - here in the X-direction and Y-direction or in a (horizontal plane, in particular on the carrier 26).

[0073] Preferably, the positioning device 30 has a first positioning element 31 and optionally a second positioning element 32, which are particularly angular in design and can be applied to diagonally opposite vertical edges or corners of the packaging 3 in order to align the packaging 3 - in particular in the transfer position P1 or on the carrier 26 - in the desired manner.

[0074] In the illustrated example, the two positioning elements 31, 32 are movable or adjustable in particular in the XY plane or a horizontal plane and / or movable along the diagonal (the base side 4A) of the packaging 3, 4 in order to achieve the desired alignment.

[0075] In particular, the first positioning element 31 can be moved into the desired position for aligning the packaging 3, and the packaging 3 is then pressed against the first positioning element 31 by advancing the second positioning element 32, so that the packaging 3 is aligned in the desired manner with the first positioning element 31. If necessary, the second positioning element 32 can also be guided for transverse displacement to adapt to non-square base areas. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0076] The turning device 40 enables, in particular, the packaging 3 to be turned or rotated about a horizontal axis. It preferably comprises a turning manipulator 41, which is designed, in particular, as a gripper with gripping arms 42 that engage the packaging 3 laterally and can be advanced symmetrically relative to one another.

[0077] So that the turning device 40 with its turning manipulator 41 can grip a package 3 on opposite sides or narrow sides 4B, the positioning elements 31 and 32 of the positioning device 30 preferably move apart again after the alignment or positioning of the package 3, before the optional turning takes place.

[0078] Preferably, the turning manipulator 41 is vertically movable or liftable (cf. Fig. 8) and / or pivotable about a particularly horizontal axis, preferably extending in the Y direction, in order to lift, turn, and set down the packaging 3 as needed. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0079] The device 1 or loading device 20 preferably has a transfer manipulator 27 in order to transfer the packaging 3 - in particular after positioning or aligning and / or turning or from the transfer position P1 or from the carrier 26 - to a downstream or other device, here preferably the opening station 100.

[0080] In the illustrated example, the transfer manipulator 27 is provided with a holding element, in particular a suction cup 28, and can pick up or lift the packaging 3 from the transfer position P1 or from the carrier 26 and preferably pivot it about a horizontal axis or an axis extending in the Y direction, in particular, in order to transfer the packaging 3, with a preferably vertically oriented main plane or base area 4A, to the opening station 100 or its opening manipulator 101 or to another device of the device 1. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0081] In the illustrated example, the transfer manipulator 27 is preferably pivotably mounted on the carriage guide 23, i.e., it is particularly movable or displaceable together with the loading manipulator 21. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0082] The suction cup 28 of the transfer manipulator 27 is preferably linearly movable or adjustable. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0083] Fig. 1 schematically shows the state of the transfer of a package 3 from the transfer manipulator 27 to the opening station 100, in particular to its opening manipulator 101, which receives the package 3 from the loading device 20 or the transfer manipulator 27 in a transfer position P2 and holds it in particular by means of a suction cup 101A.

[0084] The packaging 3, 4 or its flat side / base side 4A is preferably formed vertically when transferred to the opening station 100 and / or when opened and / or preferably points downwards with its side to be opened for removing the workpiece 2.

[0085] The opening manipulator 101 is preferably linearly movable together with the held packaging 3 - in particular, for example, by means of an actuating cylinder or linear drive - in particular along a guide or rail 102, and / or in the horizontal direction or Y-direction or transverse direction to the conveyor device 10.

[0086] The opening station 100 preferably has a (first) opening device 110 and optionally a (second) opening device 120.

[0087] The opening devices 110 and 120 are only shown very schematically in Fig. 1. A more realistic representation shows the perspective view according to Fig. 4A, which shows essential components of the opening station 100.

[0088] The (first) opening device 110 is preferably designed to open the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4, in particular by opening a narrow side 4B, pulling out an insertion flap 4C, and / or unfolding a side flap 4D. For this purpose, the (first) opening device 110 preferably has a (first) opening element 111, which is particularly wedge-shaped, web-like, or tongue-like.

[0089] Opening or unfolding preferably occurs by laterally inserting - in particular substantially in the plane of the side or side flap 4D to be opened - the opening element 111 under the side or side flap 4D to be opened of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 and in particular by means of an inclined plane or wedge surface 111A or by subsequent pivoting. In the illustrated example, this is achieved in particular by moving the packaging 3 and the opening device 110 or its opening element 111 relative to one another in an opening movement B, here at the opening station 100, preferably by the opening manipulator 101 moving them past one another along the guide / rail 102.

[0090] The (first or lower) opening device 110 preferably has an open holder 112 for keeping open and / or further unfolding the side or side flap 4D already opened by the opening element 111.

[0091] In the illustrated example, the opener 112 is formed in particular by one or two guide plates which, for further holding or unfolding, are offset or spaced apart (here perpendicular to the flat side of the packaging 3, 4), for example, transversely to the direction of movement B or widen along the direction of the opening movement B (here in the X direction or perpendicular to the flat side of the packaging 3, 4) or extend (here flat in the Y and / or Z direction) and / or are connected to the opening element 111 or to a holding part 113 assigned thereto.

[0092] The opener 112 or its guide plate(s) can optionally extend next to the opening element 111 or towards its tip and / or in addition to the longitudinal extension in the direction of movement B, in particular essentially also parallel and / or transversely or perpendicularly to the flat side or base side 4A of the packaging 3, 4 to be opened, in particular in order to achieve a substantial opening of the side flap 4D to be opened.

[0093] For example, each guide plate can also be designed in the manner of an angle profile, wherein its longitudinal extension runs in particular at least substantially parallel to the opening direction B.

[0094] The second or upper opening device 120 is preferably constructed at least substantially correspondingly, in particular with a second opening element 121 and optionally also an opener 122.

[0095] The device 1 or opening station 100 is preferably designed to open the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 on opposite sides or narrow sides 4B, namely by means of the two opening devices 110, 120.

[0096] The opening is carried out in particular by the opening movement B or by moving the packaging 3 by means of the opening manipulator 101 from the transfer position P2 into the Fig. 1 schematically indicated opening position or transfer position P3 and / or by moving the packaging 3 along the opening element 111, 121 or the opening elements 111, 121 and / or between them.

[0097] The opening manipulator 101 is optionally designed such that it encompasses the packaging 3 on the returning or vertical side or narrow side 4B and / or supports it - here by a section 101B - in order to be able to prevent twisting and / or displacement of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 during opening, since the laterally retracting opening elements 111 and 121 can possibly exert considerable forces on the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4.

[0098] The device 1 or the opening station 100 preferably has an adjusting device 103 ( Fig. 4A, Fig. 5) for adjusting an opening device 120 or the distance A ( Fig. 4B) of the opening devices 110, 120 or opening elements 111, 121 relative to one another. For example, the adjusting device 103 is designed as an actuator or actuating cylinder that can adjust one opening device, here the second opening device 120, in particular in a linear adjustment direction R and / or relative to the other opening device 110. Optionally, the other or first opening device 100 can also be adjustable with the adjusting device 103 or independently adjustable via its own (not shown) adjusting device.

[0099] The adjustment direction R preferably runs vertically and / or transversely or perpendicularly to the plane of the side / side flap 4D to be opened and / or to the opening movement B which the opening manipulator 101 executes to open the packaging 3, and / or runs in the main plane of the packaging 3 to be opened.

[0100] For the automated adjustment of the (here vertical) position of the adjustable opening device 120 or the Fig. 4B, or for the automated delivery of an opening device 120 or an opening element 121, the device 1 or opening station 100 preferably has a measuring device 104 which, in particular, detects the actual size or side length of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 and / or the actual position of the side or side flap 4D to be opened. Thus, the position of the associated, here second, opening device 120 or the position of the second opening element 121 can be adjusted accordingly to the position of the side flap 4D—here the height of the side flap 4D—in order to be able to insert the opening element 121 correctly under the side flap 4D.

[0101] In principle, both opening devices 110, 120 can also be provided with a corresponding automated adjustment for adapting to the respective position of the associated side flap 4D to be opened. Since the illustrated example provides for a defined positioning of at least one (here the lower) side flap 4D to be opened, double adjustability is not necessary; instead, a one-sided adjustment, as provided in the illustrated example, is sufficient to adapt to the actual packaging size.

[0102] By means of the intended adjustment, the distance A of the two opening devices 110, 120 or opening elements 111, 121 is also adapted accordingly to the packaging 3 or the inner distance I of the side flaps 4D to be opened, whereby Fig. 4B only schematically shows the distance A for the two opening elements 111, 121 and the inner distance I.

[0103] Preferably, the opening devices 110, 120 or their opening elements 111, 121 are offset by an offset V in the direction of the opening movement B or in the insertion direction, so that the opening elements 111, 121 are initially inserted into the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 one after the other and not simultaneously, in order to allow the forces acting on the packaging 3 to occur not simultaneously, but at different times.

[0104] Fig. Figure 4C shows a perspective view of the opening element 111 in a preferred embodiment. Here, it can be seen that the opening element 111 has or forms, in particular, an inclined plane or wedge surface 111A, particularly preferably with an angle between 10° and 20° at least in the region of its free end, and / or is preferably provided with a rounded free end.

[0105] The opening element 111 preferably has a flat base side 111B which, when inserted into the packaging 3, points towards the workpiece 2 in the packaging 3 and preferably extends parallel to the movement B, i.e. in the lateral insertion direction.

[0106] When viewed from above onto the base side 111B, the opening element 111 is preferably rounded at its front end, in particular semicircular.

[0107] The plane or wedge surface 111A of the opening element 111, which runs obliquely to the base surface 111B, is preferably rounded transversely to the insertion direction or at the longitudinal edges.

[0108] The second opening element 121 is preferably designed like the first opening element 111, but can also be designed differently.

[0109] The inclined planes or wedge surfaces 111A, 121A of the opening elements 111, 121 preferably point away from the packaging 3 to be opened in order to achieve the desired opening of the corresponding side or side flap 4D by the opening movement B.

[0110] After opening the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4, the inner packaging 5 or the workpiece 2 is removed. This is done in particular at the Fig. 1 transfer position P3 indicated by dashed lines.

[0111] Fig. 5 shows in a schematic, perspective section the transfer device 50 during the receiving or removal of the inner packaging 5 or the workpiece 2 from the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 in the position P3.

[0112] The transfer device 50 preferably has a transfer manipulator 51, which is provided in particular with motor-driven cheeks or holding arms 52 in order to be able to receive, hold or grip the workpiece 2, which is preferably still provided with its inner packaging 5, particularly preferably laterally and / or on the outer circumference.

[0113] The transfer manipulator 51 can be positioned to receive the workpiece 2 on the open side or side flap 4D of the outer packaging 4, here preferably below the opened packaging 3, which is in particular in the position P3, in which the side flap(s) 4D is / are held open by the opener 112 or 122 and / or possibly by the transfer manipulator 51 itself.

[0114] In particular, the transfer manipulator 51 is designed in a fork-like or tong-like manner in order to be able to securely pick up and hold the workpiece 2.

[0115] The device 1 or transfer device 50 particularly preferably has at least one detection device, here two or more detection devices 53 and 54, in order to detect whether the workpiece 2 has been (correctly) picked up by the transfer manipulator 51, whether the workpiece 2 is provided with an inner packaging 5 and / or with which inner packaging 5 the workpiece 2 is provided.

[0116] Preferably, the two detection devices 53 and 54 operate differently, for example the detection device 53 operates tactilely and the detection device 54 operates optically.

[0117] The first detection device 53 or its sensor 53A is designed, for example, as a micro-probe to detect whether a workpiece 2 and / or a packaging tray or blister 5A has been detected or picked up as the inner packaging 5. In particular, the sensor 53A can detect the orientation of the blister 5A, since it is not symmetrical with respect to the workpiece plane, and this can lead to a different, detectable deflection of a probe arm of the sensor 53A.

[0118] The device 1 or detection device 53 preferably (additionally) has a workpiece sensor 53B, which can detect, in particular, the presence of a workpiece 2 and / or an inner packaging 5 or wrapping 5B and / or a curvature and thus the orientation of the workpiece 2. In particular, the workpiece sensor 53B has three sensors - preferably arranged next to one another or in a line - which can be applied to a workpiece side or flat side - in particular substantially centrally - in order to detect the presence of a workpiece 2 and / or an inner packaging 5 or wrapping 5B and / or a curvature and thus the orientation of the workpiece 2.

[0119] The second detection device 54 is designed, for example, as an optical sensor in order to detect a wrapping 5B as inner packaging 5 and / or to detect the material of which the inner packaging 5 is made and / or the color or marking it has and / or whether it is transparent, and / or to detect the presence of a workpiece 2.

[0120] Preferably, the device 1 or second detection device 54 has one or more cameras, here two cameras 54A and 54B, in order to be able to examine in particular the workpiece 2 or its inner packaging 5 from opposite sides or flat sides.

[0121] The device 1 or transfer device 50 optionally has a slider 55 in order to be able to push the workpiece 2 out of the packaging 3 or into the transfer manipulator 51, if necessary. In particular, the slider 55 pushes the workpiece 2 out of the packaging 3 from above or from the side opposite the transfer manipulator 51 or the removal side.

[0122] The transfer manipulator 51 is movable, preferably pivotable about a horizontal axis and / or vertical axis, in order to transfer the removed workpiece 2 to a downstream device, preferably for removing the inner packaging 5, here particularly preferably optionally depending on the type of inner packaging 5 to the separating device 60 or unpacking device 70, and in particular also in an undesired orientation, in particular with the finished side 2B on top.

[0123] The empty packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 can be disposed of or issued.

[0124] The device 1 or opening station 100 preferably has a packaging manipulator 105, which holds the empty packaging 3 or outer packaging 4, in particular in a Fig. 1 schematically indicated transfer position P4 - in particular from the opening manipulator 101 - in order to deliver them to a disposal facility, here a chute 106 or the like.

[0125] In the illustrated example, the packaging manipulator 105, which is in particular linearly movable and provided with a suction cup, is then moved with the empty packaging 3, 4 in particular horizontally and / or into a delivery position P5, as in Fig. 1, is movable to release the packaging 3, 4, for example, by dropping it. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0126] The separating device 60 is shown schematically in Fig. 6. The separating device 60 preferably has a particularly table-like receiving area 61 with a preferably integrated holder or suction cup 62 for holding a workpiece 2 transferred, in particular, by the transfer device 50 or the transfer manipulator 51 or placed thereon (transfer position P6). During the transfer, the workpiece 2 in particular still has its inner packaging 5, if present, which, in particular according to the first embodiment, is designed as a packaging tray or blister 5A.

[0127] The separating device 60 preferably has a manipulator 63, in particular with a gripper or suction device 64 for removing and in particular conveying away the inner packaging 5, in particular packaging tray or a blister 5A, as in Fig. 6 is indicated schematically.

[0128] In the illustrated example, the device 1 or removal device 60 preferably has a conveyor 65 for conveying away the empty inner packaging 5 or packaging tray or the empty blister 5A.

[0129] The empty inner packaging 5 is transferred from the separating manipulator 63 preferably to the conveyor 65, for example a conveyor belt, as shown in Fig. 1 indicated.

[0130] The (fully) unpacked workpiece 2 can finally be transferred back to the conveyor 10 or an (empty) or, in particular, back to the original transport carrier 11 by means of the delivery device 80. For this purpose, the delivery device 80 preferably has a delivery manipulator 81, particularly preferably with a gripper 82, which is preferably movable along a guide 83 and / or in the vertical direction, as in Fig. 1 is indicated schematically.

[0131] The unpacking device 70 is shown schematically in a working state in Fig. 7A and designed to release the inner packaging 5, in particular a covering 5B, from the workpiece 2.

[0132] The unpacking device 70 preferably has a rolling element 71, here in particular in the form of a rotatable plate or a rotatable disk, in particular so that the workpiece 2 rolls along its peripheral edge and the wrapping 5B can thereby be released from the workpiece 2 or vice versa. For example, the rolling element 71 can also be formed by an inclined plane and / or an oblique or V-shaped groove or the like.

[0133] Particularly preferably, the rolling element 71 is rotatable and provided with an edge 72 on which the workpiece 2 can roll circumferentially, in particular wherein the rolling element 71 supports the preferably almost upright workpiece 2 preferably on its flat side 2A to be machined.

[0134] In the illustrated example, the unpacking device 70 preferably has a rotary drive 73 for rotating the rolling element 71 in order to allow the workpiece 2 to roll with its circumference onto the edge 72.

[0135] The unpacking device 70 preferably has a pivoting or tilting mechanism 74 in order to move the rolling element 71 into an upright working position ( Fig. 7A / 7B) and on the other hand into a preferably at least essentially horizontal alternating position ( Fig. 1) or to be able to pivot or tilt the rolling element 71 about a preferably horizontal axis.

[0136] In the change position of the rolling element 71, the transfer device 50 or its transfer manipulator 51 can transfer the workpiece 2, still provided with its inner packaging 5 or wrapping 5B, to the unpacking device 70 or the rolling element 71, as shown in Fig. 1, especially with the finished side 2B facing upwards.

[0137] This transfer position is designated P7.

[0138] After the workpiece 2 has been taken over or picked up, the rolling element 71 is tilted up or down, in particular so that its axis of rotation D is inclined by more than 5° and / or less than 45° or 35°, particularly preferably approximately 10° to 30° to the horizontal, and rotated.

[0139] The unpacking device 70 preferably has an air supply and / or suction 75 in order to support the release of the wrapping 5B by an air stream and / or to be able to suck out the released wrapping 5B.

[0140] Fig. 7B shows a schematic rear view of the unpacking device 70 during the release of the workpiece 2 released from the casing 5B.

[0141] The unpacking device 70 preferably has a transfer area 76 for depositing and / or transferring the (fully) unpacked workpiece 2 (transfer position P8). The transfer area 76 is, in particular, table-like and / or arranged laterally.

[0142] The unpacking device 70 preferably has a transfer element 77, which is preferably arranged rearwardly and / or pivotably behind or below the rolling element 71, in order to be able to first pick up the workpiece 2 emerging in particular from a rear opening 71A of the rolling element 71 in the folded-up state and then transfer it in the folded-down state, as in Fig. 7B. However, other design solutions for the transfer are also possible.

[0143] Preferably, the workpiece 2 can then be transferred or pushed into or onto the transfer area 76 by means of a transfer member 78, in particular in the form of a slider. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0144] From the transfer area 76 or the associated position P8, the unpacked workpiece 2 can preferably be transferred to the conveyor device 10 or the transport carrier 11 by means of the delivery device 80 or the gripper 82, as can be seen from Fig. 1 can be seen.

[0145] The proposed device 1 preferably has, as an alternative or in addition to the opening station 100 and / or to the separating device 60 or unpacking device 70, a modified or second opening station 200, which is designed in particular for opening the packaging 3 according to the third embodiment variant or other packaging 3.

[0146] Fig. 8 shows the opening station 200 in a perspective, schematic section.

[0147] The device 1 or opening station 200 preferably has an (additional or different or third) opening device 130 and preferably a feeding device 201.

[0148] Preferably, the feed device 201 serves to transfer the packaging 3 from the transfer position P1, i.e. the packaging 3 preferably aligned by means of the positioning device 30 and / or turned by the turning device 40 (if necessary), to or into the opening device 130 and / or the preferably lateral insertion of an opening element 131 of the opening device 130 into the packaging 3 or under a side or narrow side 4B or side flap 4D to be opened.

[0149] The device 1 or feeding device 201 preferably has a holder 202, in particular designed in the manner of a slide, and in particular a guide rail 203 for displaceably guiding the holder 202.

[0150] The holder 202 is in particular designed like a table and / or with a Fig. 1 holding device, such as a suction cup 202A, indicated by dashed lines, in order to hold the on the holder 202 - as in Fig. 8 shown - to hold deposited packaging 3.

[0151] In particular, the holder 202 is movable into the transfer position P1 instead of the carrier 26, as shown in Fig. 8. Preferably, the carrier 26 can be moved away from position P1, in particular pushed away. Optionally, the carrier 26 can also be guided displaceably via the guide rail 203. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0152] The opening device 130 is preferably designed such that a side or narrow side 4B or side flap 4D of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 to be opened can be grasped or held in a tong-like and / or clamping manner. For this purpose, the opening device 130 preferably has, in addition to the opening element 131 engaging under the side or side flap 4D, a clamping element 132, which preferably forms a gripping device, clamping device, or clamping tongs together with the opening element 131. For example, the clamping element 132 can be moved or tensioned against the opening element 131 or vice versa by means of a clamping drive 138 in order to effect the desired clamping of the received side or side flap 4D. However, other design solutions are also possible here.

[0153] The feeding device 201 is preferably designed such that the packaging 3 - in particular by means of the correspondingly driven holder 202 - is fed to the opening device 130 into an opening position P9, as in Fig. 1, is movable and / or the packaging 3 is movable relative to the opening device 130 or the opening element 131 such that the latter can be moved or inserted, in particular, laterally under the side or side flap 4D to be opened and / or the side / side flap 4D to be opened into the clamping device or pliers.

[0154] The opening device 130 preferably has a (first) pivot drive 133 with a (first) pivot axis S1 for unfolding the under-engaged or received side / side flap 4D and / or optionally a (second) pivot drive 134 with a (second) pivot axis S2 for unfolding / tearing open a side / flat side of the packaging 3, in particular wherein the first pivot drive 133 pivotally holds the opening element 131 with the clamping element 132 or the clamping device formed thereby and is preferably itself pivotally held by the second pivot drive 134. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0155] The device 1 or opening device 130 preferably has - in particular in addition to the holder 202 or suction cup 202A - a holding device 135 for holding or clamping the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4, in particular laterally, during opening or in the position P9.

[0156] In the illustrated example, the holding device 135 comprises in particular two drives or pivoting devices 136 and 137 with holding elements 136A and 137A and / or suction cups 136B and 137B that can be moved or pivoted against the packaging 3, in particular on opposite sides.

[0157] In Fig. 8, the pivot drive 136 with its holding element 136A is preferably raised so that the holder 202 with the packaging 3 can be moved into the opening device 130 or position P9.

[0158] Fig. Figure 9A shows a schematic view of the opening station 200 or opening device 130, with the still-closed package 3 already in the opening position P9. In particular, the opening element 131 has already been inserted under the side or narrow side 4B or side flap 4D to be opened.

[0159] The swivel drive 136 has already been lowered. The holding elements 136A, 137A and the suction cups 136B, 137B have not yet been folded or pressed against the packaging 3. This will happen next.

[0160] Subsequently, the side or side flap 4D is opened by pivoting the elements 131, 132 or the clamping device / clamping pliers about the first pivot axis S1, in particular when clamping the side / side flap 4D to be opened. The first pivot axis S1 preferably runs at least substantially coaxially with the fold or bend 4F or with the desired folding axis of the side flap 4D to be opened.

[0161] After the side flap 4D has been unfolded or independently thereof, pivoting preferably takes place about the second pivot axis S2 - which preferably runs at least substantially coaxially to the rear edge or longitudinal edge 4H of the packaging 3, 4 or to another desired folding axis of the side to be unfolded - into the Fig. 9B. During this pivoting, the side or flat side or top side 4E adjacent to the side flap 4D is opened, unfolded or torn open, particularly preferably along predefined or perforated tear lines 4G (see Fig. 9A) in order to finally open the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 or to make the workpiece 2 accessible, preferably on the flat side, as in Fig. 9B.

[0162] After opening the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4, the lateral clamp is preferably opened again or the holding elements 136A, 137A or suction cups 136B, 137B are preferably folded down again to facilitate the removal of the workpiece 2. However, the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is preferably still held by the holder 202 or suction cup 202A.

[0163] The exposed workpiece 2, preferably with its finished side 2B facing upwards, can now be grasped by the delivery device 80 or the delivery manipulator 81 or gripper 82 and transferred to the conveyor device 10 or the waiting transport carrier 11.

[0164] The device 1 or opening station 200 preferably comprises a packaging manipulator 204 for removing the empty packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 from the opening position P9 and, for example, transferring it to a receiving device (not shown). For this purpose, the packaging manipulator 204 comprises, for example, a pivoting arm with a particularly vertically movable suction cup 205 or the like, as shown in Fig. 1 only indicated schematically.

[0165] In the following, particularly preferred aspects, variants and process sequences of the present invention are again highlighted or explained.

[0166] The packaging 3, which is preferably conveyed via the conveyor device 10 or a transport carrier 11, is in particular conveyed from a loading position (which is shown in Fig. 1 by the right transport carrier 11 with a packaging 3) is picked up by the device 1 or loading device 20.

[0167] Optionally, in particular by means of the detection device 25, a marking 3A (in particular a barcode and / or a label) of the packaging 3 is detected or read and / or - preferably from the orientation or position of the marking 3A - a certain orientation of the conveyed packaging 3 is detected - in particular in the transport carrier 11 and / or during the transfer to the position P1.

[0168] Usually, at least the side that has to be opened for the removal of the workpiece 2 (narrow side 4B or side flap 4D or top side 4E) is marked 3A.

[0169] The loading device 20 preferably grasps the packaging 3 by means of the loading manipulator 21 or the suction cup 22, particularly preferably on a flat side or top side 4E. However, the loading device 20 can also pick up, grip, or grasp the packaging 3 in another way.

[0170] The loading device 20 or the loading manipulator 21 can rotate the packaging 3 as required, in particular about a vertical axis or an axis perpendicular to the base area 4A of the outer packaging 4, for example in order to make a side flap 4D to be opened accessible for later opening.

[0171] Preferably, the detection device 25 is movable or coupled with the loading manipulator 21 or its carriage guide 24. Thus, in particular when the packaging 3 is picked up by the loading manipulator 21 or the suction cup 22 and / or thereafter, the marking 3A can be read and / or the packaging 3 can be rotated until reading is possible and / or the packaging 3 is oriented in the desired manner.

[0172] Optionally, positioning, i.e. alignment of the packaging 3 on one side, in particular narrow side 4B, particularly preferably on two narrow sides 4B of the outer packaging 4 enclosing an angle, takes place. The positioning or alignment can be carried out in particular by means of the positioning device 30, but optionally, depending on the design, alternatively or additionally also by means of the loading device 20 and / or turning device 40.

[0173] Optionally, the packaging 3 is turned over, i.e., in particular, turned over, in order to turn the upper flat side downward if necessary. This is used, in particular, to turn the workpiece 2 accommodated in the packaging 3 with its already processed side, i.e., the finished side 2B, facing upwards, or to rotate it such that, at the end of the unpacking process, the workpiece 2 can be delivered from the device 1 or delivery device 80, in particular, back to the transport carrier 11, particularly preferably with its finished side 2B facing upwards.

[0174] Particularly preferably, after being received in the device 1, the packaging 3 is first aligned and oriented, in particular by means of the positioning device 30, and then turned over if necessary.

[0175] The turning device 40 or its turning manipulator 41 can also be designed such that a desired alignment or positioning of the packaging 3 is maintained or occurs, for example in that the two gripping arms 42 can be moved symmetrically to one another or, if necessary, asymmetrically or only on one side to one another in order to grip the packaging 3 and, if necessary, also align it.

[0176] The device 1 preferably has different opening stations 100 and 200 for opening or unpacking different packages 3, in particular different outer packages 4.

[0177] The transfer to the (first) opening station 100 is preferably carried out by means of the transfer manipulator 27 and / or with preferably vertical alignment of the flat sides of the packaging 3 or the workpiece 2.

[0178] The transfer of the packaging 3 to the (second) opening station 200 is preferably carried out by means of the feeding device 201 and / or with at least substantially horizontally aligned flat sides of the packaging 3 or horizontally aligned workpiece 2.

[0179] It should be noted that in the present invention, the term “flat side” is to be understood as meaning the largest sides or sides with the largest diagonals of the preferably at least substantially cuboid-shaped packaging 3 or outer packaging 4.

[0180] In particular, a package 3 or 4, depending on the packaging variant, can be fed or conveyed to one of the opening stations 100, 200, particularly preferably starting from the position P1 or a defined alignment and orientation of the package 3.

[0181] At the (first) opening station 100, the packaging 3, 4 is preferably opened at least on one, in particular downwardly facing side or narrow side 4B and / or on opposite sides or narrow sides 4B, very particularly preferably on a downwardly facing narrow side 4B and on an upwardly facing narrow side 4B.

[0182] The opening of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is particularly preferably carried out by mechanically gripping underneath the side or side flap 4D to be opened, in particular by an opening element 111, 121, 131, wherein the simultaneous or subsequent unfolding of the side or side flap 4D can be carried out in particular by means of an inclined plane or wedge surface 111A, 121A, in particular as in the first opening station 100, and / or in particular subsequently by pivoting the opening element 131, in particular as in the second opening station 200.

[0183] The opening element 111, 121, 131 is preferably at least substantially flat and / or rounded at least at its free or front end in order to facilitate lateral insertion under the side or side flap 4D to be opened - in particular during the so-called opening movement B.

[0184] According to a particularly preferred aspect, which can also be implemented independently, an adjustment or delivery of an opening device or an opening element, here the second opening device 120 or the second opening element 121, is optionally carried out, in particular after prior measurement or detection of the position of the side or side flap 4D to be opened or its leading edge 4H during opening, in order to be able to securely engage underneath it with the opening element 121. The term “engage underneath” is to be understood here to mean that the opening element 121 is arranged between the side or side flap 4D to be opened (which in particular forms a narrow side 4B of the packaging 3 or 4) and the adjoining narrow side 4B of the packaging 4, which runs in particular transversely thereto. The opening movement B or insertion movement preferably runs parallel to the longitudinal extent of the side or narrow side 4D to be opened or to the axis or edge 4H around which the side orSide flap 4D should be opened.

[0185] Particularly preferably, the distance A between the two opposite opening devices 110, 120 or their opening elements 111, 121 is adapted to the detected, actual internal distance I of the opposite sides or side flaps 4D to be opened, as in Fig. 4B is indicated schematically.

[0186] Due to the vertical orientation of the packaging 3, the workpiece 2 together with its optionally present inner packaging 5 can usually slide out downwards by gravity alone and in particular be picked up directly by the transfer device 50.

[0187] The transfer device 50 or the transfer manipulator 51 is preferably positioned directly adjacent to the lower opening device 110, particularly preferably directly below, in, or between its opener 112, for receiving the workpiece 2 with the inner packaging 5 when the packaging 3, 4 reaches the transfer position or opening position P3. This allows the workpiece 2 to slide into the transfer manipulator 51 (pushing by the slider 55 acting from the other side or from above is usually only necessary in exceptional cases).

[0188] The workpiece 2 or its inner packaging 5 is preferably intercepted by a support 56 on the transfer manipulator 51 and held laterally by the preferably adjustable holding arms 52. In the illustrated example, it is initially held or secured, for example, on the flat side, in particular by the opener 102 or its guide plates. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0189] In particular, by means of one detection device 53, 54 or both detection devices 53, 54, a correct reception of the workpiece 2 with its inner packaging 5 and / or, for example, the type of inner packaging 5 can be detected.

[0190] Detection can be done optically, tactilely and / or in other ways, as already mentioned.

[0191] Preferably, the orientation of the workpiece 2 or its flat sides is detected.

[0192] In particular, the sensor 53A detects whether a blister 5A has been (correctly) picked up in the picking position and how it is oriented (to which side its open flat side or removal opening points).

[0193] In particular, the workpiece sensor 53B detects how the workpiece 2 is curved (concave or convex).

[0194] The orientation of workpiece 2 is derived from the information of sensor 53A and / or workpiece sensor 53B. If necessary, workpiece 2 is then turned, in particular by means of the transfer manipulator 51.

[0195] By means of the (second) detection device 54 or cameras 54A and 54B, it can be reliably detected whether an inner packaging 5 is present or what type of inner packaging 5 is present.

[0196] After correctly picking up the workpiece 2 with the inner packaging 5, the transfer manipulator 51 preferably grips the workpiece 2 sufficiently firmly by advancing the holding arms 52 in order to transfer it to the next device, here particularly preferably to different devices for selectively removing different inner packaging 5, for example optionally to the separating device 60 or the unpacking device 70.

[0197] For the corresponding movement, the transfer manipulator 51 is preferably pivotable about a vertical and / or horizontal axis via one or more drives 57 and, if necessary, also telescopic, in particular so that the workpiece 2 can be transferred with the finished side 2B facing upward. However, other design solutions are also possible.

[0198] Particularly preferably, the device 1 can selectively release or remove various inner packaging 5.

[0199] The preferred removal of a packaging tray or a blister 5A from the workpiece 2 - in particular by means of the separating device 60 - is easy to implement in terms of process technology, wherein the lifting is particularly preferably carried out by means of a holder or suction device 62, but can in principle also be carried out by means of another manipulation device.

[0200] However, removing an inner packaging 5 in the form of a wrapper 5B, particularly a folded cover or the like, is technically difficult. Experiments have shown that rolling the workpiece 2 along its edges, particularly in combination with an air stream and / or suction 75, is a very simple and efficient method for separation.

[0201] In the proposed unpacking device 70, the workpiece 2 is preferably held relatively upright during unrolling and is supported in particular by the unrolling element 71 with its flat side 2A still to be machined, while the workpiece 2 rolls on its peripheral edge on the edge 72 of the rotating unrolling element 71 and can thus be easily released from the casing 5B.

[0202] The inclination of the in particular plate-like or disc-like surface of the rolling element 71, which supports the workpiece 2 on the flat side, is in particular more than 5° and / or less than 45° or 35°, preferably approximately 10° to 30°, relative to the vertical.

[0203] The rolling element 71 preferably has a slot or an opening 71A in its plate-like or disc-like surface, so that, for example, after a 3 / 4 turn of the rolling element 71, the opening 71A is rotated into the lower region and the workpiece 2, which at this time has already been released from the casing 5B, comes to rest on the transfer element 77 through the opening 71A - in particular with its flat side 2A to be machined.

[0204] The released wrapping 5B is preferably suctioned off or removed by means of the suction device 75 or by some other means. In particular, the unpacking device 70 or the rolling element 71 has a corresponding covering to, on the one hand, realize the desired air flow, air guidance, and / or suction in the tilted state or in the working position, and, on the other hand, to be able to place a workpiece 2 with inner packaging 5 or wrapping 5B into the rolling element 71 in the lowered position or change position, in particular by means of the transfer device 50.

[0205] The workpieces 2 unpacked by the various devices can preferably be picked up by means of the common delivery device 80 or a common gripper 82 and output again - in particular to a free transport carrier 11 or to the original transport carrier 11 preferably with the corresponding information carrier - particularly preferably with the finished surface 2B facing upwards.

[0206] Preferably, the positions P6, P8 and P9 of the unpacked workpieces 2 are arranged in a line, so that the delivery device 80 can move to the different positions by means of a linear guide 83, pick up the workpieces 2 and deliver them, in particular to the conveyor device 10 or a transport carrier 11 (which is then in particular in a pick-up position or in the left position in Fig. 1, which here differs from the position when feeding the packaged workpiece 2).

[0207] The line of the receiving positions P6, P8 and / or P9 particularly preferably runs transversely, in particular perpendicular to the conveying direction X, here in the example shown in particular in the Y direction.

[0208] In the (modified or second) opening station 200 or opening device 130, a side or side flap 4D of the packaging 3 or outer packaging 4 is preferably unfolded by pivoting the opening element 131 and / or a clamping device formed thereby. This represents, in particular, a general alternative to folding down or unfolding by means of an inclined plane and can also be implemented independently of and / or in combination with other aspects and features.

[0209] Another aspect, which can also be realized independently, is that a side or part of the outer packaging 4 is torn open automatically, in particular along provided weakening lines, predetermined breaking points, perforations or tear lines 4G.

[0210] Particularly preferably, a combination of clamping a part of the outer packaging 4 and subsequent tearing open of an adjoining area, in particular one of the flat side or top side 4E of the outer packaging 4, is carried out, wherein the opening or tearing open and unfolding can also take place only of a part of the flat side or top side 4E.

[0211] It is particularly preferred to first open or unfold a side flap 4D and then tear open the side or top side 4E of the outer packaging 4 adjacent to the opened side flap 4D.

[0212] The direction of the opening movement B (i.e. the relative movement between the packaging 3, 4 and the opening device 110, 120, 130) at the opening station 100 preferably runs horizontally and / or in the Y direction or transversely to the conveying direction X, and at the opening station 200 preferably horizontally and / or parallel to the conveying direction X and / or transversely or perpendicularly to the opening movement B of the opening station 100.

[0213] Preferably, the positioning device 30, the turning device 40, the separating device 60, the unpacking device 70, and / or the (second) opening station 200 are arranged at least substantially in a lower level and / or common level and / or substantially at the same height as the conveying device 10. The (first) opening station 100 is preferably arranged at least substantially in an overlying or higher level. This contributes to a compact design of the device 1.

[0214] The device 1 is preferably designed for the automated unpacking of workpieces 2 from different outer packaging 4 and / or inner packaging 5, wherein the devices required for this purpose are preferably or at least substantially all accommodated in a common frame or housing 1A.

[0215] Preferably, the term “suction device” should generally be understood as a manipulation device that operates with negative pressure.

[0216] It should be noted, however, that instead of a suction cup, another gripping or holding device can generally be used as required, even if this is not explicitly mentioned in each case.

[0217] Individual aspects, features and ideas mentioned with regard to the device 1, the method sequences and the proposed uses can also be implemented independently of one another, but also in any desired combination. List of reference symbols: 1 device 1A frame / housing 2 Workpiece 2A flat side 2B Finished side 3 Packaging 3A marking 4 Outer packaging 4A Base page 4B narrow side 4C tuck-in flap 4D side flap 4E top 4F bend 4G tear line 4H edge 5 Inner packaging 5A Packaging tray / blister 5B Envelope 5C Internal structure 10 Conveyor system 11 transport carriers 12 Connection 20 Charging device 21 Loading manipulator 22 rechargeable vacuum cleaners 23 Slide guide (Y) 24 Slide guide (Z) 25 Recording device 26 carriers 27 Transfer manipulator 28 transfer vacuum cleaners 30 Positioning device 31 first positioning element 32 second positioning element 40 turning device 41 Turning manipulator 42 gripper arm 50 transfer facility 51 Transfer manipulator 52 Holding arm 53 first detection device 53A Sensor 53B Workpiece sensor 54 second detection device 54A Camera 54B Camera 55 sliders 56 supports 57 Drive 60 separating device 61 Recording area 62 holders / suction cups 63 Separation manipulator 64 vacuum cleaners 65 sponsors 70 Unpacking device 71 Rolling element 71A breakthrough 72 Rand 73 Rotary drive 74 Pan / tilt mechanism 75 Extraction 76 Transfer area 77 Transfer element 78 Transfer organ 80 Dispensing facility 81 Dispensing manipulator 82 grippers 83 Leadership 100 opening stations 101 Opening Manipulator 101A vacuum cleaner Section 101B 102 guide rail 103 Adjustment device 104 Measuring device 105 Packaging manipulator 106 slide 110 first opening device 111 first opening element 111A Wedge surface 111B Base page 112 Openers 113 Holding part 120 second opening device 121 second opening element 121A wedge surface 122 Openers 123 Holding part 130 third opening device 131 Opening element 132 clamping element 133 first rotary actuator 134 second rotary actuator 135 Holding device 136 Swivel device 136A holding element 136B vacuum cleaner 137 Swivel device 137A Holding element 137B vacuum cleaner 138 clamping drive 200 opening stations 201 Feeding device 202 holders 202A vacuum cleaner 203 Guide rail 204 Packaging manipulator 205 vacuum cleaners A distance B Opening movement D axis of rotation I Internal distance P1 transfer position P2 transfer position P3 transfer position P4 transfer position P5 Delivery position P6 Transfer position P7 Transfer position P8 Transfer position P9 Opening position R Adjustment direction S1 first swivel axis S2 second swivel axis V Offset X direction Y direction Z direction QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3 819 092 A1

[0003] EP 4 173 979 A1

[0004]

Claims

[1] Device (1) for unpacking an optical workpiece (2), in particular a lens blank for a spectacle lens, from a packaging (3), with a (first) opening device (110, 130) for opening a first side or side flap (4D) of the packaging (3, 4) and in particular with a (second) opening device (120) for opening a second side or side flap (4D) of the packaging (3, 4), characterized by , that the opening device (110, 130) has an opening element (111, 131) for engaging under the side or side flap (4D) to be opened and / or for folding up the side or side flap (4D) to be opened, and / or that the device (1) has an adjusting device (103) and optionally a measuring device (104) for the automated adjustment of an opening device (120) and / or adaptation of the distance (A) of the first and second opening devices (110, 120) or their opening elements (111, 121) to the packaging (3, 4) to be opened. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the opening element (111, 121, 131) is wedge-shaped, web-like and / or tongue-shaped. [3] Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the opening device (130) has or forms a gripping device or clamping device, clamping pliers, in particular with the opening element (131) for unfolding, grasping and / or clamping the side or side flap (4D) to be opened. [4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the first and / or second opening device (110, 120) or their opening element(s) (111, 121) can be inserted laterally under a side flap (4D) to be opened - in particular on opposite sides - of the packaging (3, 4). [5] Device according to claim 4, characterized by that the first and second opening devices (110, 120) or their opening elements (111, 121) are arranged offset in the insertion direction or in the direction of an opening movement (B). [6] Device (1) for unpacking an optical workpiece (2), in particular a lens blank for a spectacle lens, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the device (1) has an opening device (130) for tearing open a side or top (4E) of the packaging (3, 4), and / or that the device (1) has an unpacking device (70) for rolling the preferably circular disk-shaped workpiece (2) on the edge to release a covering (5B) from the workpiece (2), and / or that the device (1) is designed for the automated opening of different packaging variants and / or packages (3, 4) of different sizes and / or for the automated unpacking of differently packaged workpieces (2). [7] Device according to claim 6, characterized by that the device (1) or opening device (130) is designed to fold down a side flap (4D) of the packaging (3, 4) and to subsequently tear open the side or top side (4E) adjoining the side flap (4D). [8] Device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by that the unpacking device (70) has a particularly rotatable rolling element (71) for rolling the workpiece (2) along its edge. [9] Device according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized by that the unpacking device (70) has a compressed air supply and / or a suction device (75) for releasing and / or conveying away the wrapping (5B). [10] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device (1) has a loading device (20) for receiving the packaged workpiece (2), in particular from a transport carrier (11) and / or a positioning device (30) for the defined gripping or holding or aligning of the packaged workpiece (2) and / or a turning device (40) for turning the packaging (3). [11] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device (1) has two differently operating opening stations (100, 200) for opening different packages (3). [12] Method for unpacking an optical workpiece (2), in particular a lens blank for a spectacle lens, in particular by means of a device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a side flap (4D) of a packaging (3, 4) of the workpiece (2) is gripped under and opened by an opening device (110, 120, 130), and / or that a side or top side (4E) of a packaging (3, 4) of the workpiece (2) is torn open, and / or that opposite sides of a packaging (3, 4) of the workpiece (2) are opened by means of spaced-apart opening devices (110, 120), wherein the distance (A) of the opening devices (110, 120) is automatically adapted to the actual lateral distance of the sides to be opened, and / or that a covering (5B) of the workpiece (2) is released from the workpiece (2) by rolling the workpiece (2) along its edge and preferably additionally by an air stream. [13] Method according to claim 12, characterized by that the side flap (4D) is opened by laterally inserting a particularly tongue-shaped or pincer-shaped opening element (131) of the opening device (130) and optionally pivoting. [14] Method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized by that the side or top side (4E) is torn open via an adjacent side flap (4D) which is first grasped or opened. [15] Method according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized bythat the size of the packaging (3) or the distance (A) between the opposite sides to be opened or the position of a side to be opened is detected by means of a measuring device (104) and the distance (A) between the opening devices (110, 120) or the position of an opening device (120) is adjusted accordingly, in particular so that an opening element (121) can be inserted under a side or side flap (4D) to be opened. [16] Method according to one of claims 12 to 13, characterized by that the wrapping (5B) is released by rolling the workpiece (2) on the edge while rotating the rolling element (71) about an axis of rotation (D) inclined by more than 5° and / or less than 45° or 35°, preferably approximately between 10° and 30°, to the horizontal. [17] Use of a device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11 for unpacking an optical workpiece (2), in particular a lens blank for a spectacle lens, wherein outer packagings (4) of the workpiece (2) which are to be opened differently are opened by means of the same device (1) and / or the workpieces (2) are removed from differently constructed inner packagings (5) by means of the same device (1), and / or wherein by means of the same device (1) an outer packaging (4) is first opened and the workpiece (2) is then removed from an inner packaging (5).

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