Bag opening station, bag closing station, overhead conveyor system and method for opening and closing an overhead conveyor transport bag

Abstract

Pocket opening station (52) for, in particular automatically, opening a suspended conveyor transport pocket (10) that can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction (24) along a guide rail (22) of a suspended conveyor (50), wherein the suspended conveyor transport pocket (10) has a supporting wall (12) that has a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and can be arranged between a closed state, in which the supporting wall (12) delimits a supporting volume (34) for receiving a conveyed item at least partially to the front, downwards, and backwards, and an open state, in which the supporting wall (12) releases the supporting volume (34) downwards, and a closure device (14) for detachably connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the closure device (14) has a front closure strip (14-1) and a rear closure strip (14-2),which are detachably connected to one another for connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, and has two closing elements (36) which can be displaced relative to one another, in particular locking bolts (36), for detachably connecting the front closure strip (14-1) to the rear closure strip (14-2), wherein the pocket opening station (52) has two pocket opening devices (54) which can be moved relative to one another in an adjustment direction transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction, between which the overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) with its closure device (14) can be positioned, wherein the pocket opening devices (54) each have a catching body (58) with a catching region (60) which tapers at least partially in the adjustment direction (56) towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) for catching and centering the interconnected closure strips (14-1,14-2) and an actuating element (62) arranged in the catch area (60) for actuating the respective closing element (36) to release the connection between the front closure strip (14-1) and the rear closure strip (14-2) and thus between the front wall (12-1) and the rear wall (12-2) from the closed state.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a bag opening station. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a bag closing station. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for opening an overhead conveyor transport bag. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for closing an overhead conveyor transport bag.

[0002] Overhead conveyor transport bags as well as the bag closing and opening stations provided for them are already known from the state of the art.

[0003] A bag opening station for automatically unloading an overhead conveyor transport bag is known, for example, from EP 3 521 214 A1. The transport bag has a supporting wall with a front wall and a rear wall, and a closure device for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall. The closure device comprises a front closing bar and a rear closing bar for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall.

[0004] To release the connection between the front and rear walls, the carrying bag has an actuating device with an actuating lever arranged at a distance from the closure device and a flexible transmission means in the form of a Bowden cable acting between the actuating lever and the closure device. The transmission means establishes a force-transmitting connection between the actuating means and the closure device.

[0005] To release the closure strips from each other, EP 3 521 214 A1 proposes moving the transport bag along a guide profile by means of a rail drive to a bag opening station, where an actuating force acting counter to the transport direction is exerted on the actuating lever by means of an actuating drive. The actuating force is transmitted via a complex actuating mechanism and the transmission means to a locking connection in the closure device to release the closure device.

[0006] The bag opening station known from EP 3 521 214 A1 has the disadvantage that the transmission of the actuating force takes place at a distance from the closure device in the area of ​​the suspension device of the transport bag. Such an actuation requires additional means on the bag side (e.g., an actuating mechanism and a transmission means) to transmit the actuating force to the closing mechanism of the closure device, thereby increasing the complexity of the transport bag and the susceptibility to errors during the opening and / or unloading process.

[0007] Furthermore, WO 2017 / 178225 A1 shows a bag closing station and a bag opening station for a transport bag provided with a closing device.

[0008] The bag opening station known from WO 2017 / 178225 A1 has two pressure means, each with a pressure surface extending approximately perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closure strips, between which the transport bag with its closure strips can be positioned, wherein a distance between the pressure means in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closure strips can be reduced in such a way that the closure strips are displaced towards each other.

[0009] The bag opening station known from WO 2017 / 178225 A1 has the disadvantage that the pressure means are designed as flat pressure plates. To ensure reliable opening of the transport bag, the locking bars must always strike the flat pressure plates perpendicularly, which is difficult to achieve given possible alignment inaccuracies (e.g., caused by the transport bag swinging and / or twisting around a vertical axis). Targeted and reliable opening is therefore only possible to a limited extent.

[0010] The bag closing station known from WO 2017 / 178225 A1 has two pressure means that can be moved toward each other transversely to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closure strips, between which the transport bag with its closure strips can be positioned. The distance between the pressure means can be reduced transversely to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closure strips in such a way that the closure strips are pressed against each other. The closure strips are pressed against each other by applying pressure in the conveying direction and are thus locked or clipped into place.

[0011] The pocket closing station known from WO 2017 / 178225 A1 has the disadvantage that the pressure means, designed as flat pressure plates, by means of which the closure strips are pressed together, are arranged below the transport pockets guided into the pocket closing station. In order to ensure contact-free insertion of the transport pocket into the engagement area of ​​the pressure means, the pressure plates can be pivoted about a pivot axis running transversely to the conveying direction. Such a design is complex and requires a lot of installation space. Furthermore, the pivoting mechanism makes it difficult to reliably transfer the closure strips from an open state to a closed state. In particular, the pivoting mechanism places high demands on the positioning accuracy of the transport pocket and / orof the closure strips in the bag closing station, since even small deviations can lead to the pressure media no longer being able to reliably apply the required contact pressure to connect the closure strips.

[0012] However, the known opening and closing processes still leave room for improvement, particularly in terms of simplicity, reliability, safety and efficiency.

[0013] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved bag opening station, an improved bag closing station, an improved overhead conveyor system, an improved method for opening an overhead conveyor transport bag and an improved method for closing an overhead conveyor transport bag, which enable a simple, reliable and selective opening and closing of the transport bag.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the invention, a pocket opening station is provided for, in particular, automatically opening a suspended conveyor transport pocket that can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction along a guide rail of a suspended conveyor, wherein the suspended conveyor transport pocket has a supporting wall that has a front wall and a rear wall and can be arranged between a closed state, in which the supporting wall delimits a supporting volume for receiving a conveyed item at least partially to the front, downwards and rearwards, and an open state, in which the supporting wall releases the supporting volume downwards, and has a closure device for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the closure device has a front closure strip and a rear closure strip that are releasably connected to one another for connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state,and two locking elements, in particular locking bolts, which can be moved relative to one another for releasably connecting the front closure strip to the rear closure strip, wherein the pocket opening station has two pocket opening devices which can be moved relative to one another in an adjustment direction transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction, between which the overhead conveyor transport pocket with its closing device can be positioned,wherein the pocket opening devices each have a catching body with a catching area tapering at least partially in the adjustment direction towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket for catching and centering the interconnected closure strips and an actuating element arranged in the catching area for actuating the respective closing element to release the connection between the front closure strip and the rear closure strip and thus between the front wall and the rear wall from the closed state.

[0015] The bag opening station is used to open an overhead conveyor transport bag. The overhead conveyor transport bag has a supporting wall with a front wall and a rear wall, as well as a closure device. The supporting wall, in particular the front wall and the rear wall, can be designed to be flexible in shape, at least in some areas. For example, the supporting wall can be made of a textile material, at least in some areas.

[0016] The closure device serves to detachably connect the front wall and the rear wall in the closed state and has a front closure strip and a rear closure strip. The closure device is preferably attached to the front wall and / or the rear wall in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner, in particular as a separate component. For example, the front closure strip can be attached or formed on the front wall. The rear closure strip can, for example, be attached or formed on the rear wall.

[0017] The locking elements of the locking device serve to detachably connect the front locking strip to the rear locking strip, particularly in the closed state. The locking elements can, for example, be arranged on the same locking strip (e.g., on the front locking strip or on the rear locking strip). Alternatively, the locking elements can, for example, be arranged on different locking strips. Alternatively, it is conceivable that one of the two locking elements is arranged on the rear locking strip and the other of the two locking elements is arranged on the front locking strip.

[0018] The closing elements are displaceable relative to one another, in particular sliding and / or rotating. The closing elements can, for example, be displaceable relative to one another in a translational and / or rotational manner. In order to move from a closed position to an open position, the closing elements are displaceable relative to one another, in particular sliding and / or rotating in opposite directions to one another. By actuating the closing elements using the actuating elements, the closing device can therefore be transferred to the open state, in which the supporting wall releases the supporting volume downwards, so that a loaded conveyed item can fall downwards out of the overhead conveyor transport pocket due to gravity. Each closing element is preferably designed as a locking bolt.

[0019] The bag opening station according to the invention has two bag opening devices which are movable, displaceable or adjustable relative to one another in the adjustment direction. The adjustment direction extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction of the overhead conveyor transport bag. Since each of the two bag opening devices has a catch body and an actuating element, the catch bodies can also be displaced relative to one another in the adjustment direction. The same applies to the actuating elements. The adjustment direction can be oriented or aligned essentially horizontally. The term “horizontally oriented” or “horizontally aligned” preferably means an orientation or alignment which is rotated by 90 degrees relative to a vertical orientation, i.e. an orientation or alignment which corresponds to the earth’s gravitational field.

[0020] The catching bodies have catching areas for catching and centering the interconnected closure strips. Each catching area tapers in the adjustment direction, at least in some areas, towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket. In other words, each catching area widens in the adjustment direction, at least in some areas, towards a side facing the overhead conveyor transport pocket and / or the opposite pocket opening device. The at least partial tapering of the respective catching area ensures that, when the distance between the pocket opening devices decreases, the interconnected closure strips are caught at their wide ends by the respective catching areas and centered towards the actuating elements, wherein the actuating elements actuate the pocket-side closing elements to move the pocket wall into the open state.In other words, the catching and centering of the interconnected closure strips as well as the actuation of the closing elements take place by a movement of the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction relative to each other.

[0021] The bag opening station according to the invention enables automatic, simplified, and reliable opening of the transport bag, particularly in continuous operation. The design of the catch bodies places comparatively low demands on the positioning accuracy of the transport bag or the closure device in the bag closing station. Furthermore, the relative mobility of the bag opening devices in the adjustment direction, combined with the arrangement of the actuating elements in the respective catch areas, particularly within the respective catch areas, prevents unintentional opening of the transport bag.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the invention, a suspended conveyor system is proposed which comprises: - a suspended conveyor transport pocket having a supporting wall which has a front wall and a rear wall and which can be arranged between a closed state, in which the supporting wall at least partially delimits a supporting volume for receiving a conveyed item to the front, downwards and backwards, and an open state, in which the supporting wall releases the supporting volume downwards, and having a closing device for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the closing device has a front closing strip and a rear closing strip which are releasably connected to one another for connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, and two closing elements, in particular locking bolts, which are displaceable relative to one another for releasably connecting the front closing strip to the rear closing strip; - an overhead conveyor for conveying the overhead conveyor transport pocket along a guide rail downstream in a conveying direction; and - a bag opening station according to the first aspect.

[0023] The overhead conveyor is used to transport the overhead conveyor transport pocket downstream along the guide rail in the conveying direction. The overhead conveyor transport pocket can have a suspension device with a transport hook for attaching the overhead conveyor transport pocket to a roller adapter of the guide rail. The roller adapter can be mounted in a guide profile of the guide rail for linear displacement. Using a rail drive, the roller adapter, together with the attached overhead conveyor transport pocket, can be automatically moved along the guide rail.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for opening an overhead conveyor transport pocket in an overhead conveyor system according to the second aspect is proposed, the method comprising the following steps: - moving the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag opening station between the bag opening devices, wherein the closing device is arranged in the closed state; - first reducing a distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the interconnected closure strips are caught by the catch areas and centered towards the actuating elements; and - secondly reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the actuating elements actuate the locking elements releasably connecting the captured locking strips to one another to displace the supporting wall into the open state.

[0025] In the step of moving the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag opening station between the bag opening devices, the closure device is in the closure state in which the front closure bar and the rear closure bar are detachably connected to each other.

[0026] In the step of moving the overhead conveyor transport pocket, a distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction can be set such that collision-free feeding of the overhead conveyor transport pocket into the pocket opening station between the pocket opening devices is ensured. For example, in the step of moving the overhead conveyor transport pocket, a distance between the pocket opening devices, in particular between the catching bodies of the pocket opening devices, in the adjustment direction can be set to a retraction dimension that is greater than a total length of the closure strips along the adjustment direction and / or along the longitudinal axis of the closure device. In this way, collision-free feeding of the overhead conveyor transport pocket can be ensured. The step of moving the overhead conveyor transport pocket preferably takes place automatically or in an automated manner.

[0027] By first reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, the interconnected closure strips, particularly at their pocket-wide ends, are captured by the respective capture areas and, due to the at least partial tapering of the respective capture area, are centered or guided toward the respective actuating elements. The step of first reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction is preferably performed automatically or in an automated manner.

[0028] By reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction for the second time, the two pocket-side closing elements are actuated by the corresponding actuating elements to assume the open state, i.e., they are displaced relative to one another. The step of reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction for the second time is preferably carried out automatically or in an automated manner.

[0029] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a pocket closing station is proposed for, in particular, automatically closing a suspended conveyor transport pocket that can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction along a guide rail of a suspended conveyor, wherein the suspended conveyor transport pocket has a supporting wall that has a front wall and a rear wall and can be arranged between a closed state, in which the supporting wall delimits a supporting volume for receiving a conveyed item at least partially to the front, downwards, and backwards, and an open state, in which the supporting wall releases the supporting volume downwards, and has a closing device for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the closing device has a front closing strip and a rear closing strip that are releasably connected to one another for connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state,wherein the front closure strip and the rear closure strip are mounted on one another transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a direction of the longitudinal axis of the closure device for displacement from the closed state, wherein the pocket closing station has two pocket closing devices movable relative to one another in the adjustment direction transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction, between which the overhead conveyor transport pocket with its closure device can be positioned in the open state, wherein the pocket closing devices each have a catching body with a catching area tapering at least partially in the adjustment direction towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket for catching and centering the closure strips that have been released from one another, and a clamping section arranged in the catching area for displacing the closure device from the open state to the closed state.

[0030] The front closure strip and the rear closure strip are mounted so as to be displaceable relative to one another transversely to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the closure device in order to be moved out of the closed state. The longitudinal axis is preferably oriented parallel to a width direction of the transport bag or coincides with it. The displaceable mounting of the front closure strip relative to the rear closure strip and transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the longitudinal axis ensures that the displacement of the supporting wall into the open state is supported by the dead weight of a loaded conveyed item. The displaceable mounting of the front closure strip relative to the rear closure strip is preferably designed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The front closure strip and the rear closure strip can be mounted so as to be linearly displaceable relative to one another in order to be moved out of the closed state.

[0031] The pocket closing station according to the invention has two pocket closing devices that are movable, displaceable, or adjustable relative to one another in the adjustment direction. The adjustment direction extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction of the overhead conveyor pocket. Since each of the two pocket closing devices has a catch body, the catch bodies are also displaceable relative to one another in the adjustment direction. The same applies to the clamping sections. The adjustment direction can be oriented or aligned essentially horizontally.

[0032] The catch bodies each have a catch zone for catching and centering the released closure strips. Each catch zone tapers in the adjustment direction, at least in some areas, toward a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket. In other words, each catch zone widens in the adjustment direction, at least in some areas, toward a side facing the overhead conveyor transport pocket and / or the opposite pocket closing device.The at least partial tapering of the respective catching area ensures that, when the distance between the pocket closing devices decreases, the non-interconnected closure strips are caught at their wide ends by the respective catching areas and centered toward the clamping sections. The clamping sections shift the closure device from the open state to the closed state, in particular by pressing the closure strips against each other transversely to the direction of the longitudinal axis. In other words, the catching and centering of the detached closure strips and the shifting of the closure strips into the closed state take place by a movement of the pocket closing devices relative to each other in the adjustment direction.

[0033] The bag closing station according to the invention enables automatic, simplified, and reliable closing of the transport bag, especially in continuous operation. The design of the catch bodies places comparatively low demands on the positioning accuracy of the transport bag or the closing device in the bag closing station.

[0034] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a suspended conveyor system is proposed, which comprises: - a suspended conveyor transport pocket having a supporting wall which has a front wall and a rear wall and which can be arranged between a closed state, in which the supporting wall delimits a supporting volume for receiving a conveyed item at least partially to the front, downwards and backwards, and an open state in which the supporting wall releases the supporting volume downwards, and having a closure device for releasably connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the closure device has a front closure strip and a rear closure strip which are releasably connected to one another for connecting the front wall to the rear wall in the closed state, wherein the front closure strip and the rear closure strip are mounted displaceably on one another transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a longitudinal axis of the closure device for displacement from the closed state; - an overhead conveyor for conveying the overhead conveyor transport pocket along a guide rail downstream in a conveying direction; and - a bag closing station according to the fourth aspect.

[0035] It is understood that the overhead conveyor system according to the second aspect may further comprise a pocket closing station according to the fourth aspect. Alternatively or additionally, the overhead conveyor system according to the fifth aspect may further comprise a pocket opening station according to the first aspect.

[0036] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a method for closing an overhead conveyor transport pocket in an overhead conveyor system according to the fifth aspect is proposed, the method comprising the following steps: - moving the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag closing station between the bag closing devices, wherein the closing device is arranged in the open state; - first reducing a distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the separated closure strips are caught by the catch areas and centered towards the clamping sections; and - second reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the captured closure strips are pressed against each other by means of the clamping sections in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis and are thereby displaced into the closed state.

[0037] In the step of moving the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag closing station between the bag closing devices, the closing device is in the open state in which the front closing bar and the rear closing bar are released from each other.

[0038] In the step of moving the overhead conveyor transport pocket, a distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction can be set such that collision-free feeding of the overhead conveyor transport pocket into the pocket closing station between the pocket closing devices is ensured. For example, in the step of moving the overhead conveyor transport pocket, a distance between the pocket closing devices, in particular between the catch bodies of the pocket closing devices, in the adjustment direction can be set to a retraction dimension that is greater than a total length of the closure strips along the adjustment direction and / or along the longitudinal axis. In this way, collision-free feeding of the overhead conveyor transport pocket can be ensured. The step of moving the overhead conveyor transport pocket preferably takes place automatically or in an automated manner.

[0039] By first reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction, the unconnected closure strips, particularly at their pocket-wide ends, are captured by the respective capture areas and, due to the at least partial tapering of the respective capture area, are centered or guided toward the respective clamping sections. The step of first reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction preferably occurs automatically or in an automated manner.

[0040] In the step of secondly reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction, the captured closure strips are pressed or compressed against each other by means of the respective clamping sections to assume the closed state. In other words, the closure strips are pressed against each other by being applied in the conveying direction and are thus connected to each other. The step of secondly reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction preferably takes place automatically or in an automated manner.

[0041] The task posed at the beginning is thus completely solved.

[0042] In an embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket opening devices are linearly movable relative to one another in the adjustment direction.

[0043] The (relative) linear mobility of the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction enables precise and controlled movement in the adjustment direction and promotes automatic opening of the overhead conveyor pocket along its wide sides. Another advantage of linear movement is the reduction of mechanical complexity. Linear movements are generally easier to implement than pivoting or rotating movements. Furthermore, linear movements can be controlled with high precision and repeatability, which increases the efficiency of the opening process and reduces the risk of errors.

[0044] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket opening station further comprises a drive device for moving, in particular linearly, the pocket opening devices relative to one another in the adjustment direction.

[0045] The drive device is used to move, adjust, or relocate the pocket opening devices relative to each other in the adjustment direction, thus adjusting the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction. The integration of a drive device enables automated and precise motion control. The drive device can, for example, comprise a toothed belt drive.

[0046] Preferably, the pocket opening station has a control device for controlling the drive device of the pocket opening station. The control device can be configured to carry out the method according to the third aspect or one of its embodiments.

[0047] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the catching bodies each have a first centering jaw and a second centering jaw which delimit the catching area in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction, wherein the actuating elements are arranged between the centering jaws of the respective catching body, preferably in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction.

[0048] The first centering jaw and the second centering jaw of the respective catching body define the catching area. The corresponding actuating element is provided between the centering jaws of the respective catching body. In other words, the first centering jaw and the second centering jaw of the respective catching body are arranged at least partially on opposite sides of the respective actuating element in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction. The centering jaws serve to catch and center the closure strips.

[0049] This design promotes precise centering of the interconnected closure strips relative to the respective actuating element and contributes to a secure opening process. This self-centering property of the centering jaws ensures that the closure strips reliably reach the optimal position for actuation by the actuating elements, regardless of positioning and / or orientation errors of the overhead conveyor transport pocket during transport. This reduces the requirements for the accuracy of the transport pocket's positioning and increases tolerance to operational irregularities.

[0050] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the first centering jaws each have a first centering surface and the second centering jaws each have a second centering surface, wherein the first centering surface and the second centering surface of the respective catching body face each other in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction, in particular wherein the mutually facing centering surfaces of the centering jaws of the respective catching body are V-shaped at least in some regions.

[0051] In other words, centering surfaces of the respective catching body delimit the catching area in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction. Due to the at least partial tapering of the respective catching area, the centering surfaces (i.e., the first centering surface and the second centering surface) of the respective catching body converge toward one another at least partially in the depth direction of the respective catching area. The depth direction of the respective catching area is preferably oriented parallel to the adjustment direction.

[0052] The preferred V-shaped alignment of the centering surfaces ensures that the interconnected locking strips, when they enter the respective catch areas, are guided easily and smoothly to the respective actuating elements. In particular, this design minimizes the resistance that occurs when inserting the locking strips into the respective catch areas and ensures a smooth centering movement. This can increase the efficiency of the opening process.

[0053] Alternatively or additionally, the centering surfaces of the respective impact body facing one another can each be convexly curved, at least in some areas.

[0054] One advantage of the at least partially convex curvature is the improved guidance and centering of the locking strips. In particular, this shape improves their self-centering capability. Another advantage of the convex centering surfaces is the reduction of friction and mechanical resistance. The convex curved shape minimizes the contact area between the locking strips and the centering jaws, which reduces frictional resistance. This leads to a more friction-free movement of the locking strips within the catch area, which increases the efficiency of the opening process and reduces wear on the mechanical components.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the actuating elements are arranged in the adjustment direction, in particular completely, within the respective catch area.

[0056] In other words, the actuating elements do not protrude from the respective catch area toward the overhead conveyor pocket along the adjustment direction. This ensures that the actuating elements only come into contact with the closing elements of the overhead conveyor pocket when the catch elements have already securely caught and centered the locking strips.

[0057] This reliably prevents accidental opening of the overhead conveyor bag, increasing the reliability and operational safety of the bag opening station.

[0058] For example, a distance between a free end of the first catching body and a free end of the second catching body can be smaller than a distance between a free end of the first actuating element arranged within the first catching area of ​​the first catching body and a free end of the second actuating element arranged within the second catching area of ​​the second catching body.

[0059] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the actuating elements are designed as pressure elements, each having a pressure surface extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction, wherein the actuating elements are designed to come into contact with the respective closing elements with their pressure surfaces during a relative movement of the pocket opening devices towards one another in the adjustment direction and to displace the closing elements relative to one another in order to displace the closure device from the closed state into the open state.

[0060] One advantage of this design is the secure transmission of force. In particular, the pressure surfaces of the pressure elements, which are aligned transversely to the adjustment direction, enable secure actuation of the closing elements, which increases the operational reliability and efficiency of the opening process. A further advantage of the pressure surfaces is their ability to adapt to different geometries and dimensions of the closing elements. This adaptability increases the versatility and range of applications of the bag opening station. Each of the pressure elements can be designed, for example, as a pressure pin or as a pressure bar. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure elements and / or the closing elements can each be designed to be rigid.

[0061] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, each printing element is designed as a substantially vertically aligned printing bar.

[0062] The essentially vertical alignment or orientation of the pressure elements (i.e. in line with the earth's gravitational field) in conjunction with their design as pressure bars ensures that overhead conveyor transport bags with different load states can be reliably opened by means of the bag opening station. The background to this is that due to the shape-flexible design of the supporting wall, at least in some areas, the overhead conveyor transport bag can have different (vertical) lengths depending on the load state. This means that the closing device can assume different vertical positions in space depending on the load state. Due to the vertical alignment of the pressure bars, the bag-side closing elements can be actuated at different heights. The bag opening station is therefore capable of efficiently opening a large number of transport bags with different load states.This contributes significantly to increasing the efficiency, reliability and flexibility of the bag opening station.

[0063] In particular, there is no longer any need to provide (additional) vertical mobility of the pocket opening devices in addition to a preferred horizontal mobility of the pocket opening devices, which makes the pocket opening station less complex.

[0064] A length of the respective pressure bar in the vertical direction is preferably selected such that actuation of the closing elements is possible under different loading conditions of the overhead conveyor transport pocket. Preferably, a length of the respective actuating element, in particular of the respective pressure bar, in the vertical direction is greater than a length of the closure device in the closed state in the vertical direction, in particular at least twice as great, preferably at least four times as great.

[0065] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket opening devices can be displaced in the vertical direction, in particular automatically.

[0066] In this way, different loading conditions of the transport bag(s) can be reliably taken into account.

[0067] In particular, it can be provided that at least the impact bodies and / or the actuating elements are vertically movable or displaceable.

[0068] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments, the actuating elements are each spring-mounted.

[0069] The spring-loaded actuating elements can improve the coupling process with the bag-side closing elements, ensuring precise and reliable actuation of the closing elements. In particular, the spring-loaded mounting offers the advantage that the actuating elements do not tilt when the distance between the bag opening devices is reduced in the adjustment direction. The spring-loaded mounting thus reduces the need for precise positioning of the transport bag relative to the bag opening station and increases operational reliability.

[0070] Preferably, each of the two pocket opening devices has a support structure for supporting the respective impact body and the respective actuating element, wherein each actuating element is resiliently mounted on the respective support structure.

[0071] In a further embodiment of the aspects or one of its embodiments, a width of the respective catch area transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction is greater than a thickness of the closure device in the closed state, in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large, particularly preferably at least six times as large.

[0072] The thickness of the closure device refers to a thickness direction of the overhead conveyor transport pocket. The thickness direction preferably extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the closure device and horizontally. In other words, the thickness direction extends perpendicular to a center plane of the overhead conveyor transport pocket oriented vertically and parallel to the longitudinal axis. The thickness of the closure device can, for example, be a thickness, in particular a maximum thickness, of the closure device in the region of its free ends arranged in the width direction.

[0073] The size ratios refer to a, in particular maximum, thickness of the closure device in the closed state, ie when the closure strips are connected to one another.

[0074] The width of the catching area preferably refers to a, in particular maximum, width of the catching area at the (or in the area of) the free ends of the respective catching body facing the overhead conveyor transport pocket.

[0075] An advantage of this design is that the overhead conveyor transport pocket can be securely captured and opened or closed over a comparatively large area along the conveying direction. Furthermore, there is no need for precise positioning of the overhead conveyor transport pocket relative to the pocket opening or closing devices.

[0076] In a further embodiment of the aspects or one of its embodiments, a length of the respective catching area and / or of the respective catching body in the vertical direction is greater than a length of the closure device in the closed state in the vertical direction, in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large.

[0077] The "length of the capture zone" means a vertical length (i.e., consistent with the Earth's gravitational field) of the capture zone. Accordingly, the "length of the closure device" means a vertical length (i.e., consistent with the Earth's gravitational field) of the closure device in the closed state.

[0078] The length of the catching area can, for example, be a, in particular maximum, length of the catching area at the (or in the area of) the free ends of the respective catching body facing the overhead conveyor transport pocket.

[0079] One advantage of this design is that the bag opening and closing stations can efficiently accommodate a variety of transport bags with varying load levels. This contributes to increasing the efficiency, reliability, and flexibility of the respective stations.

[0080] In a further embodiment of the first to third aspects, the overhead conveyor transport pocket further comprises two locking engagements for reversibly engaging the respective locking bolts in the closed state, wherein a distance between the pocket opening devices can be reduced such that the actuating elements, in particular the pressure elements, actuate the respective locking bolts and thereby disengage them from the locking engagements.

[0081] One advantage of this design is the secure and efficient opening of the overhead conveyor transport pocket. The locking engagements fulfill a dual function, which consists, on the one hand, in ensuring the engagement of the locking bolts in the closed state, and, on the other hand, in enabling the actuation or loading of the locking bolts in the closed state by the respective actuating elements, in particular by the respective pressure elements. For this purpose, the locking bolts, in particular free ends of the locking bolts, can be exposed outwards on both sides along the longitudinal axis of the locking device in the closed state. In other words, the locking bolts, in particular the free ends of the locking bolts, can be actuated or loaded from the outside along the longitudinal axis in the closed state.The locking recesses are preferably designed to receive, on the one hand, the respective locking latch and, on the other hand, a respective actuating element of a corresponding pocket opening station. The locking recesses preferably extend along the longitudinal axis through an outer, in particular outermost, boundary of the front closure strip.

[0082] In a further embodiment of the third aspect or one of its embodiments, the step of secondly reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction occurs after the step of firstly reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction.

[0083] One advantage of this design is a safe opening process. The chronological sequence of the first and second reduction steps prevents the closing elements from being actuated prematurely or accidentally, thus reducing the risk of unintentional discharge of a loaded material. This significantly increases reliability and operational safety.

[0084] In a further embodiment of the third aspect or one of its embodiments, the actuation of the locking elements comprises a displacement of the respective locking element against a closing spring force exerted on the locking bolt and causing a displacement of the locking element into the closed state.

[0085] The locking device can have at least one closing spring, in particular two closing springs, for exerting a closing spring force on the respective locking element, in particular the respective locking bolt. The closing spring is preferably designed such that the closing spring force causes the locking element to shift into the closed state. The locking element is thus securely held in the closed state and accidental release of the locking device is reliably prevented. The respective closing spring can be designed as a compression spring and / or as a torsion spring. Preferably, the respective closing spring acts between the respective locking element and the front locking bar or the rear locking bar.

[0086] The closing spring force thus counteracts any displacement of the closing element from the closed state. The actuating force exerted by the actuating elements on the closing elements in the step of secondly reducing the distance between the pocket-opening devices must therefore be selected such that the closing spring force(s) are overcome when the closing elements are actuated.

[0087] In a further embodiment of the third aspect or one of its embodiments, it can be provided that each closing element is designed as a locking bolt and the overhead conveyor transport pocket further comprises two locking engagements, preferably spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal axis of the closure device and arranged on a lateral boundary of the supporting wall, for reversibly engaging the locking bolts in the closed state, wherein the locking bolts are actuated in the step of secondly reducing the distance between the pocket opening devices such that the locking bolts are brought out of engagement with the respective locking engagements.

[0088] An advantage of this design is the safe and efficient opening of the overhead conveyor transport bag.

[0089] In a further embodiment of the third aspect or one of its embodiments, the method further comprises a step of increasing the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction and / or a step of further transporting the opened overhead conveyor transport pocket along the overhead conveyor, in particular in the conveying direction.

[0090] In other words, this means that after the overhead conveyor transport pocket has been opened, the pocket opening devices are moved relatively away from each other along the adjustment direction in order to enable the overhead conveyor transport pocket to pass the pocket opening station unhindered, in particular in or along the conveying direction.

[0091] The step of increasing the distance between the pocket opening devices preferably occurs after the steps of moving, first decreasing, and second decreasing. The step of further transporting the overhead conveyor transport bag preferably occurs after the step of increasing the distance between the pocket opening devices.

[0092] The step of increasing the distance between the pocket opening devices and / or the step of further transporting the overhead conveyor transport pocket is preferably carried out automatically or in an automated manner.

[0093] In an embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket closing devices are linearly movable relative to one another in the adjustment direction.

[0094] The (relative) linear mobility of the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction enables precise and controlled movement in the adjustment direction and promotes automatic closing of the overhead conveyor pocket along its broad sides. Another advantage of linear movement is the reduction of mechanical complexity. Linear movements are generally easier to implement than pivoting or rotary movements. Furthermore, linear movements can be controlled with high precision and repeatability, which increases the efficiency of the closing process and reduces the risk of errors.

[0095] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket closing station further comprises a drive device for moving, in particular linearly, the pocket closing devices relative to one another in the adjustment direction.

[0096] The drive device is used to move, adjust, or relocate the pocket closing devices relative to each other in the adjustment direction, thus adjusting the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction. The integration of a drive device enables automated and precise motion control. The drive device can, for example, comprise a toothed belt drive.

[0097] Preferably, the pocket closing station further comprises a control device for controlling the drive device of the pocket closing station. The control device can be configured to carry out the method according to the sixth aspect or one of its embodiments.

[0098] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the catching bodies each have a first centering jaw and a second centering jaw, which delimit the catching area in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction.

[0099] The first centering jaw and the second centering jaw of the respective impact body define the capture area, which securely grasps or catches the locking strips and guides them into a position for compression.

[0100] This design facilitates precise centering of the separated closure strips toward the respective clamping section and contributes to a secure closing process. This self-centering property of the centering jaws ensures that the closure strips are reliably positioned for compression during transport, regardless of positioning and / or orientation errors of the overhead conveyor transport pocket. This reduces the requirements for the accuracy of the transport pocket's positioning and increases tolerance to operational irregularities.

[0101] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the centering jaws of the respective impact body form the clamping section.

[0102] One advantage of this design is the reduction in the complexity of the bag closing station. For example, the number of individual components that require assembly and maintenance can be reduced. Another advantage is the synergistic effects that result from combining multiple functions in one assembly. The centering jaws perform both a catching and centering function as well as a clamping function. The integration of these functions makes the entire closing process simpler and more efficient. Furthermore, this design enables a compact design.

[0103] Preferably, the clamping sections are arranged in a narrowest cross-section of the respective catching area. In this context, a "narrowest cross-section of the respective catching area" is understood to mean a section or location within the respective catching area where the distance between the opposing centering jaws of the respective catching body is smallest transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction. This narrowest point forms a kind of bottleneck within the respective catching area, to which the closure strips are fed in order to be pressed against each other.

[0104] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the first centering jaws each have a first centering surface and the second centering jaws each have a second centering surface, wherein the first centering surface and the second centering surface of the respective catching body face each other in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction, in particular wherein the mutually facing centering surfaces of the centering jaws of the respective catching body are at least partially V-shaped.

[0105] In other words, centering surfaces of the respective catching body delimit the catching area in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction and / or in the conveying direction. Due to the at least partial tapering of the respective catching area, the centering surfaces (i.e., the first centering surface and the second centering surface) of the respective catching body converge toward one another at least partially in the depth direction of the respective catching area. The depth direction of the respective catching area is preferably oriented parallel to the adjustment direction.

[0106] The preferred V-shaped alignment of the centering surfaces ensures that the separated locking strips, upon entering the respective catch areas, are guided easily and smoothly to the respective clamping section. In particular, this design minimizes the resistance that occurs when inserting the locking strips into the respective catch areas and ensures a smooth centering movement. This can increase the efficiency of the closing process.

[0107] Alternatively or additionally, the centering surfaces of the respective impact body facing one another can each be convexly curved, at least in some areas.

[0108] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the overhead conveyor transport pocket of the third to sixth aspects is designed correspondingly to the overhead conveyor transport pocket according to the first to third aspects or one of its embodiments.

[0109] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the clamping sections are arranged in the adjustment direction, in particular completely, within the respective catch area.

[0110] This ensures that the clamping sections only come into contact with the closure strips of the overhead conveyor transport pocket when the impact bodies have already safely caught and centered the closure strips.

[0111] In a further embodiment of the fourth to sixth aspects or one of its embodiments, the pocket closing devices can be displaced in the vertical direction, in particular automatically.

[0112] In this way, different loading conditions can be reliably taken into account.

[0113] In a further embodiment of the sixth aspect or one of its embodiments, the step of secondly reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction occurs after the step of firstly reducing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction.

[0114] One advantage of this design is a secure closing process. The chronological sequence of the first and second reduction steps prevents the separated closure strips from being accidentally pressed against each other, reducing the risk of the overhead conveyor pocket closing accidentally. This significantly increases reliability and operational safety.

[0115] In a further embodiment of the sixth aspect or one of its embodiments, the method further comprises a step of increasing the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction and / or a step of further transporting the closed overhead conveyor transport pocket along the overhead conveyor, in particular in the conveying direction.

[0116] In other words, this means that after the overhead conveyor transport pocket has been closed, the pocket closing devices are moved relatively away from each other along the adjustment direction in order to enable the overhead conveyor transport pocket to pass the pocket closing station unhindered, in particular in or along the conveying direction.

[0117] The step of increasing the distance between the pocket closing devices preferably occurs after the steps of moving, first decreasing, and second decreasing. The step of further transporting the overhead conveyor transport pocket preferably occurs after the step of increasing the distance between the pocket closing devices.

[0118] The step of increasing the distance between the pocket closing devices and / or the step of further transporting the overhead conveyor transport pocket is preferably carried out automatically or in an automated manner.

[0119] In a further embodiment of the third or sixth aspect or one of its embodiments, the steps of first reducing the distance and secondly reducing the distance are carried out during continuous movement of the overhead conveyor transport pocket along the conveying direction.

[0120] One advantage of this design is that the opening and closing process can be performed in continuous operation. Instead of stopping the overhead conveyor pocket during opening and closing, it can move continuously along the conveying direction, resulting in significant time savings and optimizing material flow. This can significantly increase the system's throughput and productivity.

[0121] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0122] Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an overhead conveyor transport bag in a closed state, comprising a supporting wall and a closure device with a front closure strip and a rear closure strip, Fig. 2A-2B isometric views of a section of the locking device from Fig. 1 in the open state and in the closed state, Fig. 3A-3C Cross-sectional views of a section of the locking device from Fig. 1, which illustrate a shifting of the locking strips between the open state and the closed state, Fig. 4 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bag opening station, Fig. 5A-5F Top views of the bag opening station from Fig. 4 to illustrate an opening process, Fig. 6 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of a bag closing station, Fig. 7A-7E Top views of the bag closing station from Fig. 6 to illustrate a closing process, Fig. 8 a front view of the bag opening station Fig. 4, Fig. 9 is a schematic flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for opening an overhead conveyor transport pocket, and Fig. 10 is a schematic flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for closing an overhead conveyor transport pocket.

[0123] The following is based on the Fig. 1 to Fig. 3C describes an embodiment of an overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 for receiving one or more conveyed goods (not shown).

[0124] The overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 has a supporting wall 12, a closure device 14, and a suspension device 16. The suspension device 16 is attached to the supporting wall 12 and has a transport hook 18 for coupling the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 to a roller adapter 20 of a guide rail 22 (see. Fig. 4 and Fig. 6). The rolling adapter 20 can, for example, be mounted for linear displacement in a guide profile of the guide rail 22. By means of a rail drive (not shown), the rolling adapter 20, together with the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 attached to it, can be automatically displaced along the guide rail 22.

[0125] The overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 is moved in a conveying direction 24, which is normally oriented parallel to a direction of a thickness (thickness direction) D of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10, in particular in its closed state, provided that the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 is not (unintentionally) rotated about a vertical. Fig. 1, a longitudinal direction L of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 (when coupled to the guide rail 22) essentially coincides with a vertical direction 11. The vertical direction 11 coincides with the Earth's gravitational field.

[0126] The supporting wall 12 has a front wall 12-1 and a rear wall 12-2. The front wall 12-1 is arranged at the front of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 along the conveying direction 24, and the rear wall is arranged at the rear of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 along the conveying direction 24. Alternatively, it can be provided that the front wall 12-1 is arranged at the rear of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 along the conveying direction 24, and the rear wall is arranged at the front of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 along the conveying direction 24.

[0127] The front wall 12-1 is attached to the suspension device 16 via a loading frame 26. The loading frame 26 defines an upper loading opening 28 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10, through which the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 can be loaded with conveyed goods (e.g., in a loading station). The loading frame 26 is preferably dimensionally stable.

[0128] Furthermore, the support wall 12 has two side walls 12-3 and 12-4. The side walls 12-3 and 12-4 extend substantially along the thickness direction D of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 and are each arranged between the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2. The side walls 12-3 and 12-4 are opposite each other in a width direction (width direction) B of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10.

[0129] The closure device 14 has a front closure strip 14-1 and a rear closure strip 14-2. The closure strips 14-1 and 14-2 are oriented substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis 30 of the closure device 14. The longitudinal axis 30 preferably extends parallel to the width direction B of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure strips 14-1 and 14-2 are aligned substantially parallel to one another.

[0130] The front closure strip 14-1 is attached to an underside of the front wall 12-1. The rear closure strip 14-2 is attached to an underside of the rear wall 12-2. The closure device 14 extends over a, in particular the entire, width of the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2. The overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 has a center plane 32 oriented vertically and parallel to the longitudinal axis 30.

[0131] In the Fig. 1, the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 is shown in a closed state. An underside of the front wall 12-1 is connected to an underside of the rear wall 12-2 via the closure device 14. For this purpose, the front closure strip 14-1 is connected to the rear closure strip 14-2, in particular fastened to the rear closure strip 14-2, and the supporting wall 12 delimits a supporting volume 34 to the front, rear, and downward. The front closure strip 14-1 contacts the rear closure strip 14-2 in the region of the central plane 32. The supporting wall 12, in particular the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2, is preferably made of a textile material and is flexible in shape, in particular pliable. The conveyed goods are thus firmly held in the supporting volume 34.

[0132] As particularly in the Fig. As shown in Figures 2A to 3C, the closure device 14 further comprises two displaceably mounted closure elements 36 for releasably connecting the front closure strip 14-1 to the rear closure strip 14-2. The closure elements 36 are arranged on the rear closure strip 14-2. However, it is understood that the closure elements 36 can alternatively also be arranged on the front closure strip 14-1. It is also conceivable that one of the two closure elements 36 is arranged on the front closure strip 14-1 and the other of the two closure elements 36 is arranged on the rear closure strip 14-2.

[0133] The locking elements 36 are arranged spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis 30 and, at least in the closed state, project beyond the rear locking strip 14-2 on both sides along the longitudinal axis 30 (or along the width direction B). The locking elements 36 are translationally displaceable relative to one another along the longitudinal axis 30. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the two locking elements 36 is designed as a locking bolt 36.

[0134] As particularly in the Fig. 2A to 3C, the locking device 14 further comprises two locking engagements 38 for reversibly engaging the locking bolts 36 in the locked state. In the locked state, the locking bolts 36 engage with the respective locking ring engagement 38. The two locking engagements 38 are provided or attached to the front locking strip 14-1. Alternatively, however, the two locking engagements 38 can also be arranged on the rear locking strip 14-1. An alternating arrangement of the two locking engagements 38 on the locking strips 14-1 and 14-2 is also conceivable. The locking engagements 38 are spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis 30 (or along the width direction B) and arranged on a lateral boundary of the supporting wall 12. The locking bolts 36, together with the respective locking engagement 38, form a releasable, positive-locking connection in the closed state.The positive connection allows the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2 to be connected particularly reliably.

[0135] As particularly in the Fig. 2A to 3C, the locking device 14 further comprises two closing springs 40, each for exerting a closing spring force on the corresponding locking bolt 36. The closing spring force preferably acts along the longitudinal axis 30 on the respective locking bolt 36. The respective closing spring 40 is preferably designed such that the closing spring force causes a displacement of the locking bolt 36 into the closed state. In other words, the closing spring force counteracts a displacement of the respective locking bolt 36 from the closed state. The locking bolt 36 is thus securely held in the closed state, and unintentional release of the locking device 14 is reliably prevented. In the illustrated embodiment, the closing springs 40 are each designed as compression springs. The closing springs 40 act between the respective locking bolt 36 and the front locking strip 14-1.

[0136] Furthermore, the closure device 14 has centering means 42 (cf. Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B) for the guided displacement of the front closure strip 14-1 relative to the rear closure strip 14-2 into the closed state. In the illustrated embodiment, the centering means 42 are provided or attached to the front closure strip 14-1. The front closure strip 14-1 and the rear closure strip 14-2 can thus be moved particularly securely and robustly, in particular automatically, from or from an open state (illustrated in Fig. 2A and Fig. 3A), in which the supporting wall 12 releases the supporting volume 34 downwards, into the closed state. The centering means 42 are preferably arranged in the region of the respective locking engagement 38. In other words, at least one centering means 42 can be assigned to each of the two locking engagements 38. The centering means 42 serve to center the closure strips 14-1 and 14-2 relative to one another when transferring or displacing the supporting wall 12 or the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 from the open state to the closed state.

[0137] In addition, the closure device 14 has, in particular, two actuating bevels 43. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating bevels 43 are provided or attached to the front closure strip 14-1. The actuating bevels 43 are preferably arranged in the region of the respective locking engagement 38. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the two locking engagements 38 is assigned, for example, an actuating bevel 43. The actuating bevels 43 are designed to actuate the locking bolts 36 when transferring the supporting wall 12 or the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 from the open state to the closed state.

[0138] The functioning of the centering means 42 and the actuating bevels 43 is particularly described in the Fig. 3A to 3C. In the Fig. 3A, the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 is shown in the open state. To move the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 from or to the open state ( Fig. 3A) into the closed state ( Fig. 3C), the front closure strip 14-1 and the rear closure strip 14-2 can be moved relative to each other along the thickness direction D and / or in the conveying direction 24. In this case, the locking bolts 36 come into contact with the respective actuating bevels 43 ( Fig. 3B) and are displaced from their end position as the locking bars 14-1, 14-2 progressively approach each other. The closing spring forces are thereby overcome. The locking bolts 36 finally engage positively with the locking engagements 38 to assume the locking position. Fig. 3C. The centering means 42 and the actuating bevels 43 thus enable the locking bolt 36 to engage, in particular automatically, from the open state into the closed state.

[0139] As in the Fig. 3C, the locking bolts 36, in particular free ends 44 of the locking bolts 36, are exposed outwardly on both sides along the longitudinal axis 30 (or along the width direction B) in the closed state. In other words, the locking bolts 36, in particular the free ends 44 of the locking bolts, can be actuated or loaded from the outside along the longitudinal axis 30 in the closed state. Preferably, the bolt engagements 38 are designed to actuate, on the one hand, the respective locking bolt 36 and, on the other hand, a respective actuating element 62 of a corresponding pocket opening station 52 (cf. Fig. 4) to record.

[0140] The locking engagements 38 preferably extend along the longitudinal axis 30 through an outer, in particular outermost, boundary of the front closure strip 14-1. The locking engagements 38 can be designed as through-openings. Each locking engagement 38 can open along the longitudinal axis 30 into an actuating element receptacle 46 of the closure device 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating element receptacles 46 are each attached to the front closure strip 14-1. The actuating element receptacles 46 are each designed to receive an actuating element 62 of the pocket opening station 52. The actuating element receptacles 46 can serve as centering means for reliably inserting the respective actuating element 62. In particular, the actuating element receptacles 46 can be designed to correspond to the respective actuating element 62.Preferably, the locking latches 36 can be actuated or loaded in the respective latch engagement 38 and / or in the respective actuating element receptacle 46 in the closed state. This enables, in particular, simplified and automated operation of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10.

[0141] In the Fig. 2A and the Fig. 3A shows the locking device 14 in the open state. The connection between the front locking bar 14-1 and the rear locking bar 14-2 is released. In the open state, the locking bolts 36 are disengaged from the respective locking engagement 38.

[0142] The Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a bag opening station 52. Identical elements are identified by the same reference numerals and will not be explained in detail below.

[0143] The pocket opening station 52 serves to open an overhead conveyor transport pocket 10, for example, to be able to unload a loaded conveyed item. The overhead conveyor transport pocket is designed according to the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 from the Fig. 1 to 3C. The overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 is coupled to the guide rail 22 of an overhead conveyor 50 and hangs vertically downwards. Fig. 4 shows the overhead conveyor transport bag in the closed state.

[0144] The bag opening station 52, the overhead conveyor 50 and the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 preferably form an overhead conveyor system 48.

[0145] In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket opening station 52 is arranged below the guide rail 22. The pocket opening station 52 has two pocket opening devices 54. The pocket opening devices 54 are linearly movable relative to one another in an adjustment direction 56 transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction 24. The pocket opening devices 54 are spaced apart from one another along the adjustment direction 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket opening devices 54 are arranged in the adjustment direction 56 on opposite sides of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 positioned or positionable therebetween. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment direction 56 is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 30 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10.

[0146] Each pocket opening device 54 has a catch body 58 with a catch region 60 for catching and / or centering and / or aligning the closure strips 14-1, 14-2 connected to one another in the closed state. The catch bodies 58 are positioned opposite one another in the adjustment direction 56. Furthermore, each pocket opening device 54 has an actuating element 62 for actuating the respective closing element 36 of the closure device 14 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10. The actuating elements 62 serve to release the connection between the front closure strip 14-1 and the rear closure strip 14-2, and thus between the front wall 12-1 and the rear wall 12-2, from the closed state. The catching areas 60 each taper at least partially in the adjustment direction 56 towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10, ie outwards in the adjustment direction 56.

[0147] The actuating elements 62 are arranged in the respective catching area 60. Each catching area 60 is delimited transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24 by a first centering jaw 58-1 and by a second centering jaw 58-2 of the respective catching body 58. The first centering jaws 58-1 are arranged at the rear in the conveying direction 24. The second centering jaws 58-2 are arranged at the front in the conveying direction 24. The centering jaws 58-1, 58-2 of the respective catching body 58 are spaced apart from one another in the conveying direction 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the centering jaws 58-1, 58-2 of the respective catching body 58 are spaced apart from one another along their entire (vertical) length. This promotes efficient catching of the closure strips 14-1, 14-2.

[0148] The actuating elements 62 are arranged transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24 between the first centering jaw 58-1 and the second centering jaw 58-2 of the respective catching body 58. The actuating elements 62 are designed as pressure elements, each of which has a pressure surface 63 extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction 56. The actuating elements 62 are designed, for example, as substantially vertically aligned pressure bars.

[0149] The centering jaws 58-1, 58-2 of the respective impact body 58 have mutually facing centering surfaces 64-1 and 64-2 (cf. in particular the Fig. 5A) that delimit the catching area 60 in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the mutually facing centering surfaces 64-1, 64-2 of the centering jaws 58-1, 58-2 of the respective catching body 58 are aligned in a V-shape relative to one another, at least in some areas. However, other geometries and / or shapes and / or orientations are also conceivable.

[0150] As exemplified in the Fig. 5A illustrates, a width B F of the respective catch area 60 perpendicular to the adjustment direction 56 (or in the conveying direction 24) is greater than a thickness D V the closure device 14 in the closed state. As exemplified in the Fig. 8 illustrates, a length L F of the respective catching area 60 and / or the respective catching body 58 in the vertical direction 11 is greater than a length L Vthe closure device 14 in the closed state in the vertical direction 11 (or in the longitudinal direction L).

[0151] Furthermore, each pocket opening device 54 has a support structure 66 for supporting the respective catching body 58 and the respective actuating element 62. The centering bodies 58 and the actuating elements 62 are attached to the respective support structure 66. The actuating elements 62 are preferably resiliently mounted on the respective support structure. A resilient mounting of the actuating elements 62 enables a more reliable and gentle coupling with the respective closing element 36 of the closure device 14 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10.

[0152] The support structures 66 are mounted on a frame 68 of the pocket opening station 52 for linear movement, in particular for linear displacement. By means of a drive device (not shown) (e.g., a toothed belt drive), the support structures 66, together with the catch bodies 58 and the actuating elements 62 attached thereto, can be moved automatically, in particular translationally, along the adjustment direction 56. For this purpose, the frame 68 of the pocket opening station 52 can, for example, have at least one guide rail (not shown) on which the support structures 66 are mounted for linear displacement. Furthermore, the pocket opening station 52 can have a control device (not shown) for controlling the drive device.

[0153] Based on the Fig. 5A to 5F, an opening process of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 using the pocket opening station 52 is explained below. Identical elements are identified by the same reference numerals and will not be explained in detail below. Fig. 5A to 5D show the pocket opening devices 54 and the closure device 14 in plan view.

[0154] First, the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 with its interconnected closure strips 14-1, 14-2 is moved along the overhead conveyor 50 in the conveying direction 24 into the pocket opening station 52 between the pocket opening devices 54 (cf. Fig. 5A). The closure device 14 is arranged in the closed state.

[0155] As soon as the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 has reached a defined position, the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 is reduced along the adjustment direction 56, so that the interconnected closure strips 14-1, 14-2 are captured by the capture areas 60. The closure strips 14-1, 14-2 initially come into contact with the respective first centering jaw 58-1 or its centering surface 64-1 (see Fig. 5B).

[0156] When the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 is further reduced along the adjustment direction 56, the closure strips 14 are guided along the centering surfaces 64-1 of the first centering jaws 58-1 in the direction of the actuating elements 62 due to the tapered shape of the respective catch area 60 towards the respective actuating element 62 (cf. Fig. 5C)

[0157] When the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 is further reduced along the adjustment direction 56, the actuating elements 62 come into contact with the respective closing element 36 of the closure device 14 (cf. Fig. 5D). In this case, the actuating elements 62 engage, in particular, with the respective locking engagement 38 of the locking device 14 and / or with the respective actuating element receptacle 46.

[0158] If the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 is further reduced along the adjustment direction 56, the closing elements or locking bolts 36 are brought out of engagement with the respective locking engagement 38 by being acted upon by means of the respective actuating element 62 (cf. Fig. 5E). The closing spring forces are thereby overcome. The connection between the front closure bar 14-1 and the rear closure bar 14-2 is released, and the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 or the supporting wall 12 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket is moved into the open state.

[0159] Subsequently, the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 is increased again along the adjustment direction 56, so that the actuating elements 62 and the closing elements or locking bolts 36 are decoupled from one another (cf. Fig. 5F). Finally, the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 along the adjustment direction 56 is increased to such an extent that the now opened overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 can pass the pocket opening station 28 along the conveying direction 24 without hindrance.

[0160] The Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a bag closing station 72. Identical elements are identified by the same reference numerals and will not be explained in more detail below.

[0161] The pocket closing station 72 serves to close a hanging conveyor transport pocket 10. The hanging conveyor transport pocket 10 is preferably designed in accordance with the hanging conveyor transport pocket 10 from the Fig. 1 to 3C. The overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 is coupled to the guide rail 22 of the overhead conveyor 50 and hangs vertically downwards. Fig. 6, the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 or the supporting wall 12 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 is arranged in the open state.

[0162] In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket closing station 72 is arranged below the guide rail 22. The pocket closing station 72 has two pocket closing devices 74. The pocket closing devices 74 are linearly movable relative to one another in an adjustment direction 56 transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction. The pocket closing devices 74 are spaced apart from one another along the adjustment direction 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket closing devices 74 are arranged in the adjustment direction 56 on opposite sides of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 positioned or positionable between the pocket closing devices 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment direction 56 is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 30.

[0163] Each pocket closing device 74 has a catch body 76 with a catch region 78 for catching and / or centering and / or aligning the closure strips 14-1, 14-2 released from one another in the open state. The catch bodies 76 face one another in the adjustment direction 56. Furthermore, each pocket closing device 74 has a clamping section 80 for moving the closure device 14 from or into the closed state.

[0164] The catch areas 78 each taper at least partially in the adjustment direction 56 towards a side facing away from the transport bag 10, ie outwards in the adjustment direction 56.

[0165] The clamping sections 80 are arranged in the respective catching area 78. Each catching area 78 is delimited transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24 by a first centering jaw 76-1 and by a second centering jaw 76-2. The first centering jaws 76-1 are arranged at the rear in the conveying direction 24. The second centering jaws 76-2 are arranged at the front in the conveying direction 24. The centering jaws 76-1, 76-2 are spaced apart from one another in the conveying direction 24. The centering jaws 76-1, 76-2 of the respective catching body 76 form the clamping section 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping sections 80 are arranged in a narrowest cross-section of the respective catching area 78 in plan view (cf. the Fig. 7A-7E).

[0166] The centering jaws 76-1, 76-2 of the respective catching body 76 have mutually facing centering surfaces 82-1 and 82-2, which delimit the catching area 78 in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction 56 and / or in the conveying direction 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the mutually facing centering surfaces 82-1 and 82-2 of the respective catching body 76 are aligned in a V-shape relative to one another, at least in some areas. However, other geometries and / or orientations are also conceivable.

[0167] As exemplified in the Fig. 7E illustrates, a width B F of the respective catch area 78 perpendicular to the adjustment direction 56 (or in the conveying direction 24) is greater than a thickness D V the closure device 14 in the closed state. As exemplified in the Fig. 6 illustrates, a length L Fof the respective catching area 78 and / or the respective catching body 76 in the vertical direction 11 is greater than a length L V of the closure device 14 in the vertical direction 11 (or in the longitudinal direction L).

[0168] Furthermore, each pocket closure device 74 has a support structure 84 for supporting the respective impact body 76. The impact bodies 76 are attached to the respective support structure 84.

[0169] The support structures 84 are linearly movable, in particular linearly displaceable, and are mounted on a frame 86 of the pocket closing station 72. By means of a drive device (not shown) (e.g., a toothed belt drive), the support structures 84, together with the catch bodies 76 attached thereto, can be moved automatically along the adjustment direction 56. The movement along the adjustment direction is preferably translational. For this purpose, the frame 86 can, for example, have at least one guide rail (not shown) on which the support structures 84 are mounted for linear displacement. Furthermore, the pocket closing station 72 can have a control device (not shown) for controlling the drive device.

[0170] Based on the Fig. 7A to 7E, a closing process of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 by means of the pocket closing station 72 is explained below. The same elements are identified by the same reference numerals and will not be explained in detail below. Fig. 7A to 7E show the pocket closing devices 74 and the closure device 14 in plan view.

[0171] First, the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 with its separated closure strips 14-1, 14-2 is moved along the overhead conveyor 50 in the conveying direction 24 into the pocket closing station 72 between the pocket closing devices 74 (cf. Fig. 7A). The transport pocket 10 or the supporting wall 12 is arranged in the open state. The closure strips 14-1, 14-2 are spaced apart from one another in the conveying direction 24.

[0172] As soon as the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 has reached a defined position, the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 is reduced along the adjustment direction 56, so that the released closure strips 14-1, 14-2 are each caught by the catch areas 78. The rear closure strip 14-2 comes into contact with the respective first centering jaw 76-1 or its centering surface 82-1 in the region of its wide ends, and the front closure strip 14-2 comes into contact with the respective second centering jaw 76-2 or its centering surface 82-2 in the region of its wide ends (cf. Fig. 7B)

[0173] When the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 is further reduced along the adjustment direction 56, the closure strips 14-1, 14-2 are guided along the centering surfaces 82-1, 82-2 in the direction of the clamping sections 80 due to the tapered shape of the respective catch area 78 towards the respective clamping section 80 (cf. Fig. 7C)

[0174] When the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 is further reduced along the adjustment direction 56, the closure strips 14-1, 14-2 are pressed together by the clamping sections 80 in the conveying direction 24, so that the closure strips 14-1, 14-2 are brought closer to one another and finally lock together to assume the closed state (cf. Fig. 7D and Fig. 7E).

[0175] Subsequently, the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 is increased again along the adjustment direction 56 so that the closed transport pocket 10 can pass the pocket closing station 72 along the conveying direction 24 unhindered.

[0176] Fig. 9 shows an embodiment of a method 400 for opening an overhead conveyor transport pocket in the overhead conveyor system 48.

[0177] In a first step 402 of the method 400, the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is moved along the overhead conveyor 50 in the conveying direction into the bag opening station, wherein the closure device 14 is arranged in the closed state.

[0178] In a further step 404 of the method 400, a first reduction of a distance between the pocket opening devices 54 in the adjustment direction 56 is provided, wherein the interconnected closure strips 14-1, 14-2 are captured by the capture regions 60 and centered towards the actuating elements 62.

[0179] In a further step 406 of the method 400, a second reduction of the distance between the pocket opening devices 54 in the adjustment direction 56 is provided, wherein the actuating elements 62 actuate the closing elements 36 releasably connecting the captured closure strips 14-1, 14-2 to one another in order to displace the supporting wall 12 into the open state.

[0180] Fig. 10 shows an embodiment of a method 500 for closing an overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 in the overhead conveyor system 70.

[0181] In a first step 502 of the method 500, the overhead conveyor transport bag 10 is moved along the overhead conveyor 50 in the conveying direction 24 into the bag closing station 72, wherein the closure device 14 is arranged in the open state.

[0182] In a further step 504 of the method 500, a first reduction of a distance between the pocket closing devices 74 in the adjustment direction 56 is provided, wherein the interconnected closure strips 14-1, 14-2 are captured by the capture regions 78 and centered towards the clamping sections 80.

[0183] In a further step 506 of the method 500, a second reduction of the distance between the pocket closing devices 74 in the adjustment direction 56 is provided, wherein the captured closure strips 14-1, 14,2 are pressed against one another by means of the clamping sections in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis 30 of the overhead conveyor transport pocket 10 and are thereby displaced into the closed state.

Claims

[1] Bag opening station (52) for, in particular automatically, opening a hanging conveyor transport bag (10) which can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction (24) along a guide rail (22) of a hanging conveyor (50), wherein the hanging conveyor transport bag (10) has a supporting wall (12) which has a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and can be arranged between a closed state in which the supporting wall (12) delimits a supporting volume (34) for receiving a conveyed item at least partially to the front, downwards and to the rear, and an open state in which the supporting wall (12) releases the supporting volume (34) downwards, and has a closure device (14) for detachably connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the closure device (14) has a front closure strip (14-1) and a rear closure strip (14-2),which are detachably connected to one another for connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, and two closing elements (36) which can be displaced relative to one another, in particular locking bolts (36), for detachably connecting the front closure strip (14-1) to the rear closure strip (14-2), wherein the pocket opening station (52) has two pocket opening devices (54) which can be moved towards one another in an adjustment direction transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction, between which the overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) with its closing device (14) can be positioned, , characterized bythat the pocket opening devices (54) each have a catching body (58) with a catching region (60) which tapers at least partially in the adjustment direction (56) towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) for catching and centering the interconnected closure strips (14-1, 14-2) and an actuating element (62) arranged in the catching region (60) for actuating the respective closing element (36) to release the connection between the front closure strip (14-1) and the rear closure strip (14-2) and thus between the front wall (12-1) and the rear wall (12-2) from the closed state. [2] Bag opening station (52) according to claim 1, wherein the bag opening devices (54) are linearly movable relative to one another in the adjustment direction (56). [3] Pocket opening station (52) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a drive device for moving, in particular linearly, the pocket opening devices (54) relative to one another in the adjustment direction (56). [4] Bag opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the catching bodies (58) each have a first centering jaw (58-1) and a second centering jaw (58-2) which delimit the catching area (60) in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24), wherein the actuating elements (62) are each arranged between the centering jaws (58-1, 58-2) of the respective catching body (58). [5] Pocket opening station (52) according to claim 4, wherein the first centering jaws (58-1) each have a first centering surface (64-1) and the second centering jaws (58-2) each have a second centering surface (64-2), wherein the first centering surface (64-1) and the second centering surface (64-2) of the respective catching body (58) face each other in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24), in particular wherein the mutually facing centering surfaces (64-1, 64-2) of the centering jaws (58-1, 58-2) of the respective catching body (58) are V-shaped at least in regions. [6] Bag opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating elements (62) are arranged in the adjustment direction (56), in particular completely, within the respective catch area (60). [7] Bag opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating elements (62) are designed as pressure elements (62), each having a pressure surface (63) extending transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction (56), wherein the actuating elements (62) are designed, upon a relative movement of the bag opening devices (54) in the adjustment direction (56) towards one another, with their pressure surfaces (63) to come into contact with the respective closing elements (36) and to displace the closing elements (36) relative to one another in order to displace the closure device (14) from the closed state into the open state. [8] Bag opening station (52) according to claim 7, wherein each actuating element (62) is formed as a substantially vertically oriented pressure bar (62). [9] Bag opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating elements (62) are each spring-mounted. [10] Bag opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a width (B F ) of the respective catching area (60) transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24) is greater than a thickness (D V ) of the closure device (14) in the closed state, in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large, particularly preferably at least six times as large. [11] Bag opening station (52) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a length (L F ) of the respective catching area and / or the respective catching body in the vertical direction (11) is greater than a length (L V) of the closure device (14) in the closed state in the vertical direction (11), in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large. [12] Bag closing station (72) for, in particular automatically, closing a hanging conveyor transport bag (10) which can be conveyed downstream in a conveying direction (24) along a guide rail (22) of a hanging conveyor (50), wherein the hanging conveyor transport bag (10) has a supporting wall (12) which has a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and can be arranged between a closed state in which the supporting wall (12) delimits a supporting volume (34) for receiving a conveyed item at least partially to the front, downwards and to the rear, and an open state in which the supporting wall (12) releases the supporting volume (34) downwards, and has a closing device (14) for detachably connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the closing device (14) has a front closing strip (14-1) and a rear closing strip (14-2),which are detachably connected to one another for connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the front closure strip (14-1) and the rear closure strip (14-2) are mounted displaceably against one another transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a direction of a longitudinal axis (30) of the closure device (14) for displacement from the closed state, wherein the pocket closing station (72) has two pocket closing devices (74) which can be moved relative to one another in the adjustment direction (56) transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the conveying direction (24), between which the overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) with its closure device (14) can be positioned in the open state, characterized bythat the pocket closing devices (74) each have a catching body (76) with a catching region (78) which tapers at least partially in the adjustment direction (56) towards a side facing away from the overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) for catching and centering the mutually detached closure strips (14-1, 14-2) and a clamping section (80) arranged in the catching region (78) for displacing the closure device (14) from the open state into the closed state. [13] Bag closing station (72) according to claim 12, wherein the bag closing devices (74) are linearly movable relative to one another in the adjustment direction (56). [14] Bag closing station (72) according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a drive device for moving, in particular linearly, the bag closing devices (74) relative to one another in the adjustment direction (56). [15] Bag closing station (72) according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the catching bodies (76) each have a first centering jaw (76-1) and a second centering jaw (76-2) which delimit the catching region (78) in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24). [16] Bag closing station (72) according to claim 15, wherein the centering jaws (76-1, 76-2) of the respective catching body (76) form the clamping section (80). [17] Bag closing station (72) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the first centering jaws (76-1) each have a first centering surface (82-1) and the second centering jaws (76-2) each have a second centering surface (82-2), wherein the first centering surface (82-1) and the second centering surface (82-2) of the respective catching body (76) face each other in the direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24), in particular wherein the mutually facing centering surfaces (82-1, 82-2) of the respective catching body (76) are V-shaped at least in regions. [18] Bag closing station (72) according to one of claims 12 to 17, wherein a width (B F ) of the respective catching area (78) transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the adjustment direction (56) and / or in the conveying direction (24) is greater than a thickness (D V) of the closure device (14) in the closed state, in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large, particularly preferably at least six times as large. [19] Bag closing station (72) according to one of claims 12 to 18, wherein a length (L F ) of the respective catching area (78) and / or of the respective catching body (76) in the vertical direction (11) is greater than a length of the closure device (14) in the closed state in the vertical direction (11), in particular at least twice as large, preferably at least four times as large. [20] Overhead conveyor system (48), comprising: - a suspended conveyor transport pocket (10) comprising a supporting wall (12) having a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and being capable of being arranged between a closed state, in which the supporting wall (12) delimits a supporting volume (34) for receiving a conveyed item at least partially to the front, downwards, and backwards, and an open state, in which the supporting wall (12) releases the supporting volume (34) downwards, and a closure device (14) for releasably connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the closure device (14) comprises a front closure strip (14-1) and a rear closure strip (14-2), which are releasably connected to one another for connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, and two closure elements (36), in particular locking bolts (36), which are displaceable relative to one another,for detachably connecting the front closure strip (14-1) to the rear closure strip (14-2), - an overhead conveyor (50) for conveying the overhead conveyor transport bag (10) along a guide rail (22) downstream in a conveying direction (24); and - a pocket opening station (52) according to one of claims 1 to 11. [21] Overhead conveyor system (70), comprising, - a suspended conveyor transport pocket, which has a supporting wall (12) which has a front wall (12-1) and a rear wall (12-2) and can be arranged between a closed state, in which the supporting wall (12) delimits a supporting volume (34) for receiving a conveyed item at least partially to the front, downwards and backwards, and an open state, in which the supporting wall (12) releases the supporting volume (34) downwards, and has a closure device (14) for releasably connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the closure device (14) has a front closure strip (14-1) and a rear closure strip (14-2) which are releasably connected to one another for connecting the front wall (12-1) to the rear wall (12-2) in the closed state, wherein the front closure strip (14-1) and the rear closure strip (14-2) for moving from the closed state to each other transversely, in particular vertically,are mounted displaceably in a direction of a longitudinal axis (30) of the closure device (14);, - an overhead conveyor (50) for conveying the overhead conveyor transport bag (10) along a guide rail (22) downstream in a conveying direction (24); and - a bag closing station (12) according to one of claims 12 to 19. [22] Method (400) for opening an overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) in an overhead conveyor system (48) according to claim 20, wherein the method (400) comprises the following steps: - moving (402) the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag opening station between the bag opening devices, wherein the closure device is arranged in the closed state; - first reducing (404) a distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the interconnected closure strips are captured by the capture areas and centered towards the actuating elements; and - second reduction (406) of the distance between the pocket opening devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the actuating elements actuate the closing elements releasably connecting the captured closure strips to one another to displace the supporting wall into the open state. [23] Method (500) for closing an overhead conveyor transport pocket (10) in an overhead conveyor system (70) according to claim 21, wherein the method (500) comprises the following steps: - moving (502) the overhead conveyor transport bag along the overhead conveyor in the conveying direction into the bag closing station between the bag closing devices, wherein the closure device is arranged in the open state; - first reducing (504) a distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the mutually released closure strips are caught by the catch areas and centered towards the clamping sections; and - second reduction (506) of the distance between the pocket closing devices in the adjustment direction, wherein the captured closure strips are pressed against one another by means of the clamping sections in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis and are thereby displaced into the closed state.

Images