Processing station

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for transporting and processing products, wherein a processing unit for processing the products, comprising a conveying unit, a processing means and an associated auxiliary device, is movable relative to a stationary base body transversely to the conveying direction in order to be able to receive the products supplied to the processing unit at a predetermined transverse position.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing station for conveying and processing discrete products that are transported along a process line. Often, a large number of similar products (production batch, hereinafter also referred to as a batch) are processed in a single processing run before the product type or required processing changes.

[0002] Various processing tools are known for processing products, which interact with the product during the processing process. This could, for example, be a reading unit for capturing product markings. Inspection units that examine the product for specific properties are also conceivable. Applying markings to the product is also part of such processing operations. The products are often moved into the effective range of the processing tool using a conveying unit, such as a conveyor belt or a similar transport device, in a conveying direction X. Successful processing often requires a specific alignment or positioning of the product relative to the processing tool.

[0003] For example, it would be conceivable to move and / or align the print head of a printing unit relative to the product, in particular transversely to the conveying direction X, so that the printing process can be carried out with a desired Y-distance between the product and the print head. Alternatively, a product initially positioned in any desired manner could be aligned with a stationary print head by, for example, coming from the conveyor belt of a feed unit, first being redirected and / or aligned along a track redirection path onto a track running alongside the print head, in order to then reach the processing means in a position or alignment optimal for processing.

[0004] However, these measures could become difficult if, for example, the print head cannot be moved freely in a transverse direction Y that runs orthogonally to the conveying direction X, because its movement is blocked, for example, by the conveyor belt. On the other hand, a gauge changeover line requires additional and valuable installation space along the conveying path of the process line. Furthermore, an auxiliary device is often required that interacts specifically with the processing tool during product processing. This auxiliary device, too, often has to assume a specific position relative to the product during processing, which further complicates the correct positioning of the product, processing tool, and auxiliary device.

[0005] DE 10 2009 048 442 A1 discloses a control system comprising a central control unit connected to multiple sensors for recording process parameters in real time. The system integrates actuators controlled by the control unit based on the collected data to optimize the functionality of an industrial process. The design enables precise adjustment and control, with a focus on increased efficiency and flexibility.

[0006] DE 93 04 387 U1 describes a treatment device with a treatment chamber consisting of a base body and a holding device attached to it. The holding device is designed to securely hold the object to be treated. A locking device is integrated to fix the object in the treatment chamber and ensure precise alignment. The device's construction is designed to offer both stability and user-friendliness, as well as being suitable for easy assembly and maintenance.

[0007] JP S63-107 592 U1 describes a workpiece handling device consisting of a base plate, a vertically mounted support column for structural support, a rotating arm attached to the support column for rotating the workpiece, and a gripping mechanism at the end of the rotating arm for gripping and holding the workpiece. A drive unit controls the movement of the rotating arm and the gripping mechanism. This configuration enables precise positioning and efficient handling of workpieces in industrial applications.

[0008] From KR 20 0 206 740 Y1, a device is known that comprises a device with a base structure on which a holding device is mounted. This holding device serves to hold a workpiece or object in a stable position. Additionally, the device contains a control mechanism that enables precise adjustments of the holding device. The goal is to ensure improved handling and positioning of the workpiece, with the design being optimized for ease of use and versatility.

[0009] The object of the invention was therefore to provide a processing station that overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages. The invention is achieved by a processing station according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 9. Further advantageous embodiments are set out in the subclaims.

[0010] The invention is based on the discovery that a product can be positioned relative to the processing means for its upcoming processing by displacing the processing means, together with the auxiliary device and the conveyor unit, in the transverse direction Y as part of a processing unit. This makes it possible, according to the invention, to move the processing unit or its conveyor unit into a predeterminable Y position for successful processing before a product to be processed reaches the conveyor unit. By skillfully selecting the Y position, the product reaches the conveyor unit in a transverse position that is optimal for subsequent processing.

[0011] The processing unit is part of a processing station according to the invention, which is designed to convey and process discrete products in a product stream and extends in a conveying direction X, a transverse direction Y that is orthogonal thereto and usually runs horizontally, and a vertical direction Z that is orthogonal to the conveying direction and transverse direction and usually runs vertically. The processing station comprises a base body that is stationary during regular operation, for example a machine frame arranged on a hall floor, which is designed to receive and fix different components of the processing station.

[0012] The processing station comprises a processing unit, which in turn comprises a conveyor unit, at least one processing means, and at least one auxiliary means associated with the processing means. The conveyor unit is designed to transport products in the conveying direction X along a conveying plane formed by the conveyor unit. For example, the upper side of a conveyor belt of the conveyor unit, assumed to be flat, can form the conveying plane.

[0013] The processing tool is designed to process a product while it is being conveyed or temporarily stopped by the conveyor unit. This particularly applies to processing tools that require a specified distance between the processing tool and the product for processing.

[0014] "Processing" in the broadest sense refers to any deliberately induced interaction between the product and the processing means that serves to create, modify, or capture a property of the product. A marking on the product should also be understood as a property of the product, so that reading an existing marking or applying a new marking to the product corresponds to capturing or creating a product property.Inspecting a product with a camera, for example to gain insights into specific product features through image analysis, should be understood as recording a product property, just as examining a product using X-rays to determine its radiographic properties and, for example, detect foreign bodies in the product, determine layer thicknesses or fill levels, or perform completeness and leak tests. However, the mere existence or orientation of a product at a specific position on the conveyor plane, which could be detected, for example, using a sensor, should not be understood as a property within the meaning of the above definition. For example, with a light barrier, the distance between the product and the sensor is generally insignificant.Even a sensor that operates inductively or capacitively, for example, which, despite certain distance requirements, serves solely to detect a product, should not be understood as a means of detecting a property of the product.

[0015] The aid assigned to a specific processing tool serves to support the processing of the product by the processing tool or to enable it in the first place. For example, a guide element could be used as an aid to align or guide the product during processing. In particular, the guide element could serve to stabilize the product against movement in the transverse direction Y while it is being provided with a marking by the processing tool, for example. This can be the application of a label or an imprint to the product, whereby this is preferably carried out on the side of the product facing away from the guide element. The guide element ensures that the product is guided along the processing tool at a predetermined, preferably small Y-distance during marking in order to be able to apply a high-quality marking to the product.

[0016] Embodiments in which more than one processing means is provided are conceivable. For example, the processing unit could comprise both a printing unit and a camera. Irrespective of this, it is also conceivable for the processing unit to comprise a plurality of auxiliary elements, wherein the plurality of auxiliary elements can each be assigned to different processing means or to just one. For example, the previously described guide element could serve to guide a product in the transverse direction Y both during a marking process and during a subsequent or preceding inspection with a camera, for example to ensure that the product does not leave the focusing range of the camera during processing.

[0017] Alternatively, a first auxiliary element could simply guide the product during a marking process, while a second auxiliary element, designed as a light shield or illumination, supports or optimizes image capture by a camera. The two auxiliary elements would then each be assigned to different processing equipment.

[0018] According to the invention, the at least one processing means and the at least one auxiliary means associated with it each extend at least partially above the conveying plane, thereby enabling or facilitating the processing of the product. According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one processing means extends at least partially below the conveying unit or the conveying plane in such a way that the conveying unit blocks free movement of the processing means in the transverse direction Y, in particular toward a product P arranged on the conveying plane.

[0019] According to the invention, the at least one processing means and the at least one auxiliary element associated with it for processing the product are fixed to the processing unit on two sides of the product opposite one another in the transverse direction Y. The processing means and the associated auxiliary element therefore hold the product between them during processing, with the processing means on one side and the associated auxiliary element on the opposite side of the product cooperating with each other to properly carry out the processing.

[0020] The core of the invention is to design the processing means and the auxiliary element associated with it, together with the conveyor unit, to be movable relative to the stationary base body in the transverse direction Y. According to the invention, the relative movement serves to pick up a product to be fed to the processing unit at a predeterminable Y position of the conveyor plane in order to subsequently convey and process it between the auxiliary element and the processing means.

[0021] The joint mobility of the processing means, auxiliary means and conveyor unit advantageously allows particularly flexible adaptation to different product sizes and feed positions of the products in relation to the transverse direction Y. The processing unit is therefore able to receive products to be fed to it at a selectable Y position or to pick them up on the conveyor level of the conveyor unit, as will also be made clear from the example figures. The position of the processing means relative to the conveyor unit does not have to be changed (i.e. it does not have to be readjusted). The auxiliary means also retains its position relative to the conveyor unit or to the processing means, while all three units can be moved together, almost rigidly to one another, in the transverse direction Y in order to move them to the required Y position for receiving the product to be fed to the conveyor unit.

[0022] However, the joint displacement does not preclude the processing unit from being prepared in advance for processing a specific product type, which, for example, is to be processed as a batch or in a larger quantity. In this case, it may be necessary to first adjust the auxiliary device and / or the processing device and to position and fix it relative to the conveyor unit in the transverse direction Y. For example, a guide element as an auxiliary device and / or a printing unit as a processing device could be adjusted to the width of the products to be printed before the start of a processing run by means of a respective transverse displacement and subsequent fixation.Knowing the transverse position in which the products are fed to the conveyor unit (pickup position), the processing unit can then be moved relative to the base body in the transverse direction Y such that the picked-up products are guided precisely past the print head of the printing unit with one side to be printed, while the products on the opposite side are guided and stabilized using the previously positioned and fixed guide element. For all further products of the same product type fed in, neither a further transverse displacement of the entire processing unit nor a re-adjustment of the relative positions of the processing equipment, auxiliary equipment, and conveyor unit is required.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the processing station comprises a feed unit arranged upstream of the processing unit, which is designed to feed the products to the conveyor unit. The feed unit can have a conveyor belt or a comparable conveying means, on which the products are conveyed in the conveying direction X to the conveyor unit and transferred thereto. The inventive displaceability of the processing unit relative to the feed unit makes it possible to transfer the product in a straight line or track in the conveying direction X from the feed unit to the conveyor unit at a selectable Y position, without the need for a re-tracking or transverse displacement of the product as such on the feed unit or the conveyor unit for subsequent processing.

[0024] Unlike the processing unit, the feed unit can be stationary and, for example, connected to the base body of the processing station. A transverse displacement of the feed unit in the Y direction is neither necessary nor usable for implementing the principle underlying the invention, since a kinematic reversal of the device according to the invention (i.e., with a stationary processing unit and a transversely displaceable feed unit) cannot achieve the object of the invention. This would require the feed unit to reposition each individual product conveyed to it by individually transversely displacing it for the downstream processing unit, which would severely limit the conveying capacity of the feed unit and require constant travel movements.

[0025] Instead, the processing unit can be moved relative to the feed unit in the transverse direction Y in such a way that a product coming from the feed unit is transferred from it to the conveyor unit or to the conveyor level formed by it at a selectable Y position.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the processing unit is carried by a guide, in particular a linear guide, which in turn is connected to the base body. For example, the guide can have a lower section connected to the base body and an upper section as a carriage that is movable relative thereto in the transverse direction Y and is connected to the processing unit. The guide can be operated manually, for example by an operator moving the carriage in a suitable transverse direction before the start of a processing run and fixing it in this position. Alternatively, the guide could also have a drive and be operated automatically, for example with the aid of a control system that automatically sets the transverse position to be approached depending on the products to be processed and their processing.

[0027] The processing means can, for example, be designed as a printing unit. The printing unit can, for example, be designed to print a marking on a product on a side surface protruding from the conveying plane. It is also conceivable for the marking to be applied just above the conveying plane, so that the print head is also arranged just above the conveying plane. For this purpose, it may be necessary to arrange the printing unit at the edge of the conveying plane so that parts of the printing unit can also extend below the conveying plane. In this case, the processing unit could be positioned relative to an upstream feed unit in the transverse direction Y such that the products transfer from the feed unit to the conveying unit exactly at the edge of the conveying plane or at the edge of the conveyor belt of the conveying unit.An auxiliary element designed as a guide element would be adjusted and secured to the processing unit according to the product width so that the product is conveyed along the edge of the conveyor belt and as close and securely as possible to the print head and the guide element, or between the print head and the guide element, without twisting. Like any other processing, the application of a marking or printing, such as an inkjet print, can be performed while the product is being conveyed by the conveyor unit or even during a temporary belt stop.

[0028] The processing equipment can also be designed as an inspection unit. This should include devices that detect a marking affixed to the product or specific design features or product dimensions. These include, for example, cameras, RFID sensors, or barcode or QR code scanners. An X-ray device for detecting specific product or transmission properties, e.g., for detecting inhomogeneities or foreign bodies in the product, for fill level measurement, or for optical transmission inspection such as seal seam testing, should also be considered part of the group of inspection units. The operating equipment in the case of an X-ray inspection would then be, for example, a scintillator or other X-ray-detecting sensor or detector, while an X-ray source could be considered as the associated auxiliary device. The two components could then be positioned opposite each other in the transverse direction Y and inspect a product conveyed between them ("side view").

[0029] An ejector, which can selectively eject individual products from the conveyor stream, can also be used as a processing device. This can, in particular, be a ejection element that can be pivoted or moved above the conveyor level and applies a force to a product laterally, particularly in a jerky manner, to move it down from the conveyor level. A guide element could be provided as an associated auxiliary element, which specifically directs the products acted upon by the steering element down from the conveyor level, for example, into a container arranged next to the conveyor unit.

[0030] An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the auxiliary element is designed as a guide element in order to guide a product conveyed on the conveying plane laterally (in the transverse direction Y). For this purpose, the guide element has a guide surface along which the product can slide or rest in the event of a temporary belt stoppage. The guide surface can also serve to prevent twisting or displacement of the product on the conveying plane. Preferably, the guide surface extends in the conveying direction X. Furthermore, the guide surface is preferably flat. Most preferably, the guide surface extends in an XZ plane. A guide element can be useful for various processing means that require guidance of the product during processing. This includes the application of markings, in particular on a product side opposite the guide surface and particularly when the processing (e.g.During labeling, a force is exerted on the product in the transverse Y direction, which is absorbed and compensated by the guide element. The guide element can also prevent a product being inspected with image recognition equipment from changing its position in the transverse Y direction during processing, enabling correct capture of the image data and keeping the product, for example, within the focus range of a camera.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary element can also be designed as a light shield, as a background light, as protection against electromagnetic radiation, as a wind shield, as a reflection means, as a lighting means or as another component that is directly associated with the respective processing means and is specifically intended to enable or facilitate the processing of the product with the respective processing means.

[0032] According to a further embodiment of the invention, it is also conceivable for an auxiliary device to be designed as a further processing means. For example, two opposing cameras could capture a product from two sides, or a product could be printed on one side while a camera on the opposite side interacts with the product to capture images. It is also conceivable to apply two markings, for example on two opposing product sides, using two printing units, wherein an auxiliary device serving as a guide element for one printing unit is also part of the opposite printing unit. It is also conceivable to use two cameras on sides opposite one another in the transverse direction Y, wherein a guide element serving as an auxiliary element for the first camera could also carry the second camera. The second camera could also capture features on the top side of the product facing away from the conveying plane.

[0033] Preferably, the at least one processing means and / or the at least one auxiliary means can be manually or automatically adjusted and fixed in the transverse direction Y and / or in the vertical direction Z. This allows the processing unit to be adjusted to products with different dimensions and to different processing requirements. For example, the height position of a marking to be applied to the product can be adjusted by fixing a processing means designed as a printer at the required height.

[0034] The processing station according to the invention as such is stationary and has, for example, a common frame as a base body, to which the processing unit can be movable and a feed unit can be fixedly attached. The processing unit, which can be moved relative to the base body in the transverse direction Y, is preferably limited as best as possible to those components (at least one processing means, one conveyor unit, and at least one auxiliary means) that are necessary to implement the principle of transverse displacement underlying the invention.In contrast, other machine-typical components such as a housing protecting the machining station in whole or in part, an associated control cabinet, a control unit, an operating terminal or a display unit can preferably be stationary and connected to the base body, since a transverse displacement of these components is not directly required for the realization of the inventive concept and thus smaller masses have to be displaced.

[0035] The conveyor unit of the processing unit can meet the requirements for implementing the invention provided it is capable of conveying a product to be processed between the processing means and the auxiliary device. This is preferably a conveyor belt with an uninterrupted belt surface. Alternatively, and depending on the products to be conveyed, other conveying devices or principles are also possible. For example, a belt conveyor with several parallel belts, a roller conveyor, or a chain conveyor could be used, as long as the proper transport of the products and the transverse displaceability of the processing unit due to the conveying principle do not adversely affect the implementation of the invention. A feed unit can also be implemented using various transport devices known to those skilled in the art, as long as it can transfer the products to the conveyor unit.

[0036] A processing station according to the invention can comprise an additional conveyor component arranged above the conveyor level, which supports the conveyance of the product. For example, a further conveyor unit could be arranged above the conveyor unit so that the product can be transported clamped by the upper and lower conveyor units. The upper conveyor unit, which can also be referred to as the upper runner, is then also part of the processing unit and, together with the lower conveyor unit, the processing means, and the auxiliary means, can be displaced in the transverse direction Y. Furthermore, the upper runner can itself be transversely displaced and fixed relative to the processing unit and / or the base body in order to align it for specific product types. Furthermore, the upper runner can carry further processing means, for example, a printer preferably intended for the top of the product, a camera, etc.If the upper runner or means attached to it support processing by another processing means, it can also be understood as an aid in the broadest sense.

[0037] A method according to the invention uses a processing station as described above together with a feed unit and comprises the following steps: 10) Positioning of the processing unit in the transverse direction relative to the feed unit depending on the position in which the product is to be provided on the feed unit at the moment of transfer to the conveyor unit, 20) Conveying at least one product by means of a feed unit and automatically transferring the product to the conveyor unit of the processing unit with subsequent conveying of the product in the conveying direction X and processing of the product by the processing means and the aid associated therewith.

[0038] After performing process step 10), process step 20 can be immediately repeated for each subsequent product of the same type or with the same processing, without requiring a new adjustment or transverse displacement according to process step 10 each time. It is assumed that each product is always transported by the feed unit at the same transverse position in order to reach the conveyor level at the transfer position that was the basis for the adjustment according to process step b).

[0039] In preparation for product processing, it may be appropriate, according to one embodiment of the method, to precede the following step to process step 10): 05) Positioning of the at least one processing means and the aid associated with it in the transverse direction Y relative to the conveying unit depending on a product to be conveyed, in particular setting a distance in the transverse direction Y between the at least one processing means and the aid associated with it.

[0040] This ensures that the distance between the processing tool and / or the auxiliary device and the product and / or between them is adjusted for the subsequent processing. Performing this step once may be sufficient for a batch of similar products, and it could also be interchanged with process step 10, depending on the product availability.

[0041] A preferred embodiment of the method is directed to the use of a guide element as an auxiliary element, the guide surface of which extends substantially in the conveying direction X. In this case, the method steps 05 and / or 10) are carried out with the proviso that i) a portion of a first outer surface of the product, when transferred from the feed unit to the conveying plane, is aligned with the guide surface, so that the product is guided laterally by the guide element after transfer to the processing unit, and / or ii) a section of a second outer surface of the product, after being transferred to the processing unit on the conveyor plane, assumes a predeterminable Y position required for processing with the processing means.

[0042] For example, for side printing of a product with the support of a guide element, a distance Y DHbetween the guide surface of the guide element and the processing means (for example a print head), which essentially corresponds to the width of the product to be processed in the transverse direction Y, in order to ensure precise and close guidance of a first side of the product along the print head. The adjustment can be made, for example, by moving the guide element in the transverse direction Y to the stated distance from the print head and fixing it in this position on the processing unit. The print head then does not have to be moved as well and could, for example, even be permanently fixed to the processing unit. In this relatively rigid arrangement, the processing means “print head”, the conveyor unit and the aid “guide element” are jointly displaceable in the transverse direction Y and relative to the base body as parts of the processing unit.

[0043] The processing unit can then be positioned relative to the feed unit in such a way that the product to be received by the feed unit, with a second side opposite the first side in the transverse direction Y, is guided closely past the print head during further conveyance in order to be able to produce a high-quality print image on this second side. In this specific application (printing), the processing station is therefore precisely adjusted to the product width and the feed position of the product through process steps i) and ii). Even when inspecting the product, for example using a camera, the displacement of the processing unit enables the products to be received onto the conveyor level at exactly the Y position at which the products are guided through the focusing range of the camera during further conveyance by means of the conveyor unit.

[0044] In the case of an X-ray inspection, the product should preferably be positioned so that all rays emitted by the X-ray source are directed onto the product and penetrate it across its entire vertical extent. Furthermore, the X-ray source and X-ray detector should preferably be positioned relative to each other so that the rays passing through the product, which usually emanate from the X-ray source in a fan-shaped pattern, make the best possible use of the size of the X-ray detector located behind the product. Fig. 6 illustrates this.

[0045] In the aforementioned processing cases, which are comparable with regard to positioning requirements, the product can then be transferred in a straight line from the feed unit to the conveyor unit and processed there.

[0046] In the following, an embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail using exemplary figures. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the invention, Fig. 2 the embodiment according to Fig. 2 after transverse displacement of the processing unit, Fig. 3 a simplified plan view of the device according to Fig. 1, Fig. 4 a simplified plan view of the device according to Fig. 2, Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the invention, and Fig. 6 a schematic representation of the X-ray irradiation of a product.

[0047] Fig. 1 shows a simplified perspective view of a processing station T according to the invention, which extends in a horizontal conveying direction X, a horizontal transverse direction Y orthogonal thereto and a height direction Z orthogonal to both directions.

[0048] The processing station T is arranged on a stationary base body G, which is only partially shown and is designed as a frame and which can be fastened, for example, to the floor of a production hall.

[0049] The base body carries a feed unit A that is fixedly connected to it, with the aid of which products P are conveyed in conveying direction X. A processing unit B is arranged immediately downstream of the feed unit A. The processing unit B comprises a conveyor unit M, which is also designed to transport products P in conveying direction X and, for this purpose, receives the products P from the upstream feed unit A. The feed unit A and the conveyor unit M are each equipped with a circulating conveyor belt. The top sides of the respective conveyor belts are aligned at the same height, and the conveyor belt of the conveyor unit M defines a conveying plane E on its top side.

[0050] The processing unit B comprises a first processing means D1 designed as a printing unit, which comprises a print head (not further specified) that is closely connected to the conveying plane E in the transverse direction Y. The printing unit extends both above and below the conveying plane E. In addition, the processing unit comprises a second processing means D2 designed as a camera, which is arranged at a close distance from the first processing means D1 and immediately upstream of it. The camera is also closely connected to the sides of the conveying plane E and likewise extends both above and below it. Independently of the solution shown in these figures, it is also conceivable to arrange a camera downstream of another processing means, for example to check the quality of a print image that has just been applied upstream.

[0051] On the opposite side of the conveyor unit M in the transverse direction Y, a guide element H F A tool is provided with a guide surface F extending essentially in an XZ plane. The element serves to guide or stabilize a product P in the transverse direction Y while it is captured by the camera D2 and printed by the printing unit D1. The guide element H F is thus assigned to both the camera D2 and the printing unit D1 in order to support both processing tools during the respective processing.

[0052] The position of the guide element H FIt is also freely adjustable in the transverse direction Y relative to the conveyor unit M or the processing equipment D1 and D2 and can be fixed using two unidentified clamping rails. The guide element can also be moved so far toward the printing unit or the camera that it is positioned above the conveyor plane E rather than laterally.

[0053] The processing unit B, which comprises the processing means D1, D2, the conveyor unit M and the guide element H Fis connected to a linear guide L which is manually operated via a handwheel in such a way that the machining unit B can be freely moved in the transverse direction Y relative to the base body G and thus also relative to the feed unit A. The machining unit B can optionally be fixed in any selected displacement position along the linear guide L using fixing means (not shown in detail) in order to prevent unwanted displacement. Alternatively, for example, a threaded spindle of the linear guide can bring about the necessary fixing through sufficient friction or self-locking.

[0054] In Fig. 1 shows how a product P is positioned approximately centrally on the feed unit A and fed in this transverse position to the conveyor unit M. This position is unfavorable, at least for processing with the printing unit D1, since the print head will not reach the side surfaces of the product facing the printing unit when the product is conveyed on the conveyor level E. Printing is not possible in this way.

[0055] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the inventive mobility of the processing unit B relative to the base body G or the feed unit A, however, enables the product P to be picked up in a modified transverse position that is advantageous for the printing process. For this purpose, the processing unit B was displaced by means of the linear guide L in the transverse direction Y by an offset ΔY such that the product P reaches the conveyor unit M at the edge of the conveyor belt or the conveyor plane E and can thus be transferred to it. The product side to be printed then reaches the print head at the close distance required for printing.

[0056] Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 illustrate the principle according to the invention in a simplified schematic plan view of the conveyor level E. Fig. 3 illustrates the case in which a product P can be transferred from the feed unit A to the conveyor unit already in the correct transverse position, namely at the left edge of the feed unit A as seen in the conveying direction, in order to be able to print the product with the printing unit D1. A transverse displacement of the processing unit B relative to the base body G or the feed unit A is therefore not necessary.

[0057] In Fig. 3 it can also be seen that the guide element H F with its guide surface F pre-positioned and fixed in the transverse direction Y in such a way that the products P are guided laterally during their further conveyance and processing and are guided past the print head of the printing unit D1 with little play.

[0058] The camera provided as a further processing means D2 was aligned and fixed in the transverse direction Y by means of positioning means not shown in detail so that the product P or a section of the product to be captured by the camera lies in the focusing range of the camera.

[0059] Fig. 4, however, shows the case where the product P is fed to the processing unit B at the right edge of the feeding unit A, seen in the conveying direction. In order to still process the products in the Fig. 3 shown transverse position to the conveyor unit M and to process it there, the processing unit B was shifted according to the invention relative to the base body G or to the feed unit A by the offset ΔY, so that the product P can now be transferred to the conveyor unit in a straight track and processed there with the specified or necessary distance.

[0060] Fig. 5 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention in a simplified representation, wherein recurring reference numerals correspond to the respective above explanations. A processing device T is shown with a feed unit A, a processing unit B arranged downstream thereof, and a discharge belt (not further designated) arranged downstream thereof. Unlike the feed unit A and the discharge belt, the processing unit B is again displaceable in the transverse direction Y relative to the base body G. An inspection device D2 designed as a camera is arranged laterally next to and just above the conveying plane E and serves here as a processing means for capturing the products P fed to the conveying plane E using image recognition means. In the transverse direction Y, on the other side of the conveying plane E, opposite the camera, is an aid in the form of a light shield H that interacts with the camera. LThis at least partially blocks the spread of light emitted by the camera's lighting into the surrounding area, as this is usually a flash light that is distracting to the operator.

[0061] The camera D2, the conveyor unit M and the light shield H L are, as a common part of the processing unit B, movable in the transverse direction Y according to the invention so that the products P fed by the feed unit A are in the focusing range of the camera.

[0062] Fig. Figure 6 shows a simplified representation of a product P during an X-ray inspection, viewed along the conveying direction X. For this purpose, an aid H designed as an X-ray source RQX-rays are directed fan-shaped in the transverse direction Y onto a processing device designed as an X-ray detector D3. The X-rays penetrate the product P transported on the conveyor unit M in a YZ plane and reach the X-ray detector D3 with greater or lesser intensity along the respective X-ray beam, depending on the product's radiography properties. In order to completely irradiate the entire product, the processing unit with the conveyor unit M was moved in the transverse direction Y in such a way that the product was conveyed at the position Y1 suitable for optimal irradiation instead of at a disadvantageous transverse position Y0. To optimally utilize the size of the detector D3, its Y-distance to the X-ray source H RQ previously adjusted. This ensures that the product is completely penetrated, and the X-rays reach the D3 detector across its entire available vertical detection range. List of reference symbols A Feed unit B processing unit D, D* processing equipment D1 printing unit D2 camera D3 X-ray detector E conveyor level F guide surface G base body H auxiliary element H RQ X-ray source H F Guide element H L Sun protection L Linear guide M conveyor unit P Product T processing station X Conveying direction Y transverse direction Y0 unsuitable transverse position Y1 suitable transverse position Y DH Distance between processing tool D and tool H Z Altitude direction ΔY Offset in transverse direction Y

Claims

[1] Processing station (T) for conveying and processing discrete products (P) in a product stream, wherein the processing station (T) extends in a conveying direction (X), a transverse direction (Y) orthogonal thereto and a height direction (Z) orthogonal to these two directions, and wherein the processing station has a base body (G) which is fixedly positioned on a frame during regular operation, a) wherein the processing station (T) comprises a processing unit (B), which in turn comprises a conveyor unit (M), at least one processing means (D) and at least one auxiliary means (H) associated with the at least one processing means, b) and wherein the conveyor unit (M) is designed to transport products (P) in the conveying direction (X) along a conveying plane (E) formed by the conveyor unit (M), c) and wherein the processing means (D) is designed to process a product (P) while it is being conveyed or temporarily stopped by the conveyor unit (M), and wherein the processing is carried out using the auxiliary element (H) assigned to the respective processing means (D), characterized by , d) that the at least one auxiliary element (H) and the at least one processing means (D) each extend at least partially above the conveying plane (E), and e) that the at least one processing means (D) and the at least one auxiliary element (H) associated with it for processing the product (P) e1) are fixed to the processing unit (B) on two sides of a product (P) conveyed by the conveying unit (M) which are opposite one another in the transverse direction (Y), and e2) are movable together with the conveyor unit (M) and relative to the base body (G) in the transverse direction (Y) (relative movement) in order to pick up a product (P) to be fed to the processing unit (B) at a predeterminable Y position of the conveyor plane (E) or the conveyor unit (M) and to convey it between the auxiliary element (H) and the processing means (D). [2] Processing station (T) according to claim 1, further comprising a feed unit (A) arranged upstream of the processing unit (B), which is stationary during regular operation and is designed to convey products (P) lying thereon in the conveying direction (X) and to feed them to the conveying unit (M) of the processing unit (B). [3] Processing station (T) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the machining unit (B) is carried by an automatically or manually operated guide (L), in particular a linear guide (L), connected to the base body (G), which enables the relative movement of the machining unit (B) in the transverse direction (Y). [4] Processing station (T) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processing means (D) a) is designed as a marking unit, in particular as a printing unit (D1), in order to print a product (P) on a side surface, preferably a side surface facing away from the auxiliary element (H), and / or b) is designed as an inspection unit (D2) to b1) a feature identifying the product (P), in particular a marking affixed to the product (P), or b2) to detect a product property that can be detected by detection means, in particular an inhomogeneity or a foreign body. [5] Processing station (T) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one auxiliary element (H) a) as a guide element (H F ) is designed with a guide surface (F) to guide a product (P) conveyed on the conveying plane (E) along the guide surface (F) in the transverse direction (Y) in a defined Y-position, and / or b) as light protection (H L ) or background lighting or as a radiation source. [6] Processing station (T) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one auxiliary element (H) comprises a further processing means (D*) according to claim 4a) or claim 4b). [7] Processing station (T) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one processing means (D) and / or one auxiliary means (H) is manually or automatically adjustable and fixable in the transverse direction (Y) and / or vertical direction (Z) in order to be able to guide and / or process products (P) of different widths and / or heights. [8] Processing station (T) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a) a housing at least partially surrounding the at least one processing unit (B), and / or b) a control and / or evaluation unit and / or display unit and / or control cabinet predominantly assigned to the at least one processing unit (B) is fixedly connected to the base body (G). [9] Method for processing a product (P) by means of a processing station (T) according to one of the preceding claims and claim 2, comprising the following steps: 10) Positioning of the processing unit (B) in the transverse direction (Y) relative to the feed unit (A) depending on the position in which the product (P) is provided on the feed unit (A) at the moment of transfer to the conveyor unit (M), 20) Conveying at least one product (P) by means of a feed unit (A) and automatically transferring the product (P) to the conveying unit (M) of the processing unit (B) with subsequent conveying of the product (P) in the conveying direction (X) and processing of the product (P) by the processing means (D) and the aid (H) associated therewith. [10] Method according to claim 9, wherein the following step is carried out before method step 10): 05) Positioning of the at least one processing means (D) and the auxiliary means (H) assigned to it in the transverse direction Y relative to the conveyor unit (M) depending on a product (P) to be conveyed, in particular setting a distance (YDH ) in the transverse direction (Y) between the at least one processing means (D) and the aid (H) assigned to it. [11] Method according to one of the preceding claims and claim 5a), wherein the guide surface (F) extends substantially in the conveying direction (X), wherein the positioning of the processing unit (B) in the transverse direction (Y) is carried out in such a way that i) a portion of an outer surface of the product (P) is aligned with the guide surface (F), so that the product (P) is guided by the guide element (H F ) is guided laterally, and / or ii) a section of an outer surface of the product (P) after transfer to the processing unit (B) on the conveyor plane (E) assumes a predeterminable Y position required for processing with the processing means (D). [12] Method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the positioning of the processing unit (B) in the transverse direction (Y) is carried out in such a way that the product (P) or a marking arranged thereon assumes a Y-position on the conveying plane (E) after the transfer of the product (P) to the processing unit (B) in such a way that a) that an area of the product (P) to be captured by an inspection unit designed as a camera (D2) lies within the focusing range of the camera, or b) that the radiation emitted by an X-ray source (H RQ ) X-rays radiate through the entire product (P).

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