Feeding device

Abstract

Feeding device, wherein the feeding device has a hollow element line, wherein an element can be moved through the element line from an element transfer point of the element line to a connection point of the element line, wherein an element can be introduced into the element line at the element transfer point, wherein the element line can be connected to a processing device at the connection point and the element can be transported out of the element line at the connection point so that the element can be transferred to the processing device, wherein the element can be transported to the connection point by means of a gas flow in the element line, wherein a gas flow generating device can be connected to the element line such that the gas flow in the element line is provided in such a way that, due to the gas flow, the element can be moved from the element transfer point through the element line to the connection point.wherein the element line is divided into at least a first and a second line section by means of an interface, wherein the feeding device is designed such that the element line can be vented at the interface.

Description

State of the art

[0001] Processing devices for processing elements are known. One known processing device, for example, comprises a feeding device for providing the elements and a tool, wherein the feeding device has a hollow transport line for transporting the elements to the processing device.

[0002] The small components are, for example, joining elements such as functional components or connecting elements such as rivets and the like. These components are fed to the processing equipment or tool, whereby, for example, a compressed gas in a gas stream is used as a transport medium or energy carrier for picking individual components from a batch and for automated component feeding. Traditionally, compressed air is used for this purpose, which is conventionally supplied centrally. However, centralized compressed air supply results in comparatively high energy losses due to friction and leakage, which is why processing equipment is now available that uses a fan instead of a compressor. Compared to a compressor, a fan can only achieve a lower pressure, but a comparatively high gas flow velocity and / or a high gas flow volume.

[0003] With known feeding devices, firstly, the feeding time of the elements plays a comparatively large role, so high cycle rates are desired, and secondly, with processing devices with fans, the transport length of the elements is comparatively limited. Purpose and advantages of the invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an improved feeding device, in particular a feeding device by means of which a high cycle rate and / or a comparatively large feeding distance can be achieved.

[0005] This task is solved by the independent claims. The dependent claims discuss appropriate and advantageous further developments.

[0006] The invention relates to a feeding device, wherein the feeding device has a hollow element line, wherein an element can be moved through the element line from an element transfer point of the element line to a connection point of the element line, wherein an element can be introduced into the element line at the element transfer point, wherein the element line can be connected to a processing device at the connection point and the element can be transported out of the element line at the connection point so that the element can be transferred to the processing device, wherein the element can be transported to the connection point by means of a gas flow in the element line, wherein a gas flow generation device can be connected to the element line so that the gas flow in the element line is provided in such a way thatthat, due to the gas flow, the element is movable from the element transfer point through the element line to the connection point, wherein the element line is divided into at least a first and a second line section by means of an interface, and wherein the feed device is designed such that the element line can be vented at the interface. For example, the interface and / or the element line is designed such that the element line can be vented at the interface. This allows the feed section of the element in the element line to be extended. For example, by using interfaces that can provide for venting the element line, the length of the element line can be defined variably.

[0007] For example, the feed section is the distance along which an element can be transported within the element line with a defined gas flow. The elements are carried along by the gas flow in the feed device at the element transfer point and moved in a conveying direction within and along the element line. Using its kinetic energy at the connection point, the respective element moves, for example, to a processing device that can be connected to the element line at that point.

[0008] For example, a connection point is present or formed at one end of the element line. Similarly, an element transfer point is present or formed at the other end of the element line. It is conceivable that the first and second ends of the element line are located opposite each other and spaced apart. For example, the connection point and the element transfer point are spaced apart along the length of the element line.

[0009] Examples of components include fasteners such as screws and rivets, self-piercing rivets, clinch rivets, and / or functional components such as self-piercing, press-fit, and embossed nuts and / or self-piercing, press-fit, and embossed bolts. This makes the feeding device versatile and flexible for use in a variety of insertion tasks. The feeding device can supply a corresponding processing unit with the respective components via the component line.

[0010] The feeding device, for example a feeding unit or feeding arrangement, is designed to receive and convey elements from a delivery form, such as bulk material, poured material, or material with an undefined spatial orientation. The feeding device is designed, for example, to align the elements, at least substantially, into a defined orientation or arrangement and transport them into the element line for further transport to the processing equipment.

[0011] The feeding device, for example, has a housing that surrounds an interior space. This interior space preferably has a side or area that is connected to the ambient atmosphere or air in a room where the feeding device is located. The housing has, for example, a base, a back wall, and vertical side walls.

[0012] Inside the feeding device, for example, a storage container is arranged to hold a large number of elements, such as several hundred individual elements. The elements placed in the storage container are, for example, randomly oriented or present as bulk material.

[0013] For example, the storage container, or a receiving volume of the storage container for the elements, is connected to a sorting bowl of the feeding device via a hollow, pipe-like intermediate piece. This intermediate piece serves, for example, as a single passage for an element emerging from the receiving volume and conveying it into the sorting bowl. In the sorting bowl, the elements are individually positioned in the correct orientation and transferred to a buffer line connected to the sorting bowl. In the buffer line, the elements are automatically arranged in a row, each in the same orientation. From the buffer line, the elements then proceed to a singulation device. From the singulation device, the leading element in each row is transferred to the element transfer point. From the element transfer point, the respective element enters the element line.This transition occurs, for example, with the aid of the gas flow. The transition or movement of the elements is, for example, gravity-assisted. The gas flow is directed in such a way that the respective element is carried into the element line and transported along it, towards or to the connection point and beyond.

[0014] For example, the hollow element line is designed as a flexible hollow tube. For instance, the element line is formed from a hollow plastic tube. It is conceivable that the hollow element line is designed in the form of a profiled tube. It is also possible that the hollow element line has a defined profile inside. For example, the element line has an element line sheath that encloses the interior of the element line. It is conceivable that the profile is matched to an outer contour of the elements. This prevents the elements from twisting during transport within the element line, allowing the element to be pre-positioned at the connection point before being transferred to a processing device.

[0015] For example, the hollow element conductor has a resistance value R [kg / m 7 ] which is determined according to the following formula: R=λ∗l∗ρ∗8di5∗π2

[0016] Here, λ is the pipe friction coefficient, l is the pipe length [m], and ρ is the density of the medium [kg / m³]. 3 ] and d i the pipe's inner diameter [m].

[0017] The pressure loss Δp [Pa] inside the hollow element pipe is determined according to the following formula: Δp=λ∗l∗ρ∗v2di∗2

[0018] Here, λ is the pipe friction coefficient, l is the pipe length [m], and ρ is the density of the medium [kg / m³]. 3 ], v the flow velocity [m / s], as well as d i the inner diameter of the pipe [m].

[0019] With the proposed invention, which divides the element line into line sections and provides an interface at the transition of the line sections of the element line that can be vented, a reduction in hose resistance can be achieved, since, as the preceding equations show, this depends on the length l of the element line or the line section.

[0020] For example, the interface is designed to allow venting of the element line. For instance, the interface may have an opening connected to the interior of the element line. It is conceivable that the interface includes a closure element to seal the opening. For example, the element line at the interface may be vented via this opening.

[0021] For example, the sections of the element line are present as separate elements. It is conceivable that the first and second sections of the element line are designed as separate elements. For example, the first and second sections of the element line are connected to each other via the interface. For example, the first end of the first section has or is connected to the element transfer point. It is further conceivable that the second end of the first section is connected to the interface. It is further conceivable that the first end of the second section is connected to the interface. For example, the second end of the second section has or is connected to the connection point.

[0022] In one exemplary embodiment, the interface is integrated into the element line. It is conceivable that the element line is formed in one piece or that the line sections of the element line are directly connected to each other.

[0023] For example, the element tube has a recess in the area of ​​the interface. It is conceivable that the interface is inserted into the recess or positioned against it. It is also conceivable that the interface surrounds the element tube in the area of ​​the recess. It is conceivable that the opening of the interface is connected to the recess in the element tube. For example, the recess is created in the element tube using a tool, such as a knife or a punch. For example, the recess is punched or cut out of the element tube. For example, the recess creates an opening in the element tube's outer sheath, thus establishing a pneumatic connection between the interior of the element tube and an environment, such as the ambient air, at the location of the recess.

[0024] It is also proposed that a gas supply line be provided, which can be connected to a gas generation unit, whereby the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the element line is smaller than the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the gas supply line. This allows the element line to be supplied with the gas flow in a comparatively energy-efficient manner.

[0025] It is conceivable that the gas supply line is designed as a hose, e.g., a hollow hose or a pipe. It is also conceivable that the gas supply line is made of plastic, e.g., in the form of a particularly flexible plastic hose.

[0026] For example, the inner diameter of the gas supply line is larger than the inner diameter of the element line. It is conceivable that the inner circumference of the gas supply line is larger than the inner circumference of the element line. It is also conceivable that the inner diameter of the gas supply line is larger than the inner diameter of the element line by a factor of 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 3, or 5.

[0027] For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the cavity in the gas supply line is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the cavity in the element pipe. It is conceivable that the cross-sectional area of ​​the gas supply line is larger by a factor of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or especially by a factor of 10 than the cross-sectional area of ​​the element pipe. For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the element pipe is approximately 70 mm². 2 and the cross-sectional area of ​​the gas supply line is approximately 700 mm² 2 .

[0028] It is also proposed that a valve be arranged at the interface. For example, the interface has a valve. It is also conceivable that two valves are arranged at the interface, or that the interface has two valves. For example, the interface has exactly one valve, or exactly one valve is arranged at the interface. For example, the interface has exactly two valves, or exactly two valves are arranged at the interface. This makes the opening of the interface switchable or controllable. It is also conceivable that the valve forms the interface itself.

[0029] For example, the gas flow supply line is connected to a valve, so that in a first valve position of the valve a gas flow from the gas flow generation device can be introduced into the element line via the valve.

[0030] If two valves are present, it is conceivable that the gas supply line is connected to exactly one of the two valves. It is also conceivable that, with two valves present, both are connected to the opening of the interface and / or to the recess of the element pipe, e.g., by means of a Y-connector pipe.

[0031] It is also proposed that the interface be positioned on the element conductor such that the conductor is divided into equal sections by the interface. For example, the interface is positioned on the element conductor such that the conductor is divided into two sections with a length ratio of 1 / 3 to 2 / 3. This allows the resistance of the conductor sections to be kept comparatively low compared to the total length of the element conductor.

[0032] For example, a cable section might have a length between 1m and 15m. It is also conceivable that a cable section could be between 5m and 10m long. For example, a cable section could be 5m, 7m, or 10m long. It is also conceivable that the component cable could be divided into two or more cable sections. For example, the component cable could be divided into three or four cable sections. It is also conceivable that the component cable could be divided into cable sections by means of one interface or by means of two or more interfaces.

[0033] For example, the feed device has two or more interfaces. It is conceivable that the interfaces are identical. It is also conceivable that each of the interfaces is connected to the gas supply line.

[0034] It is also proposed that the element line be divided into more than two line sections by means of an additional interface, with a valve arranged at each interface. The gas supply line is connected to the respective valve, so that in a first valve position of the respective valve, a gas flow from the gas supply line can be introduced into the element line via the respective valve. This allows for a variable definition of the element line's feed section.

[0035] For example, the gas supply line forms a parallel line or a bypass to the element line. It is conceivable that the gas supply line is connected to the element line at the element transfer point and at all interfaces to supply a gas flow to the element line or the individual sections of the element line. This makes it possible to carry the gas flow at a comparatively low pressure. Due to the simultaneously relatively large inner diameter of the gas supply line compared to the element line, a gas flow at a comparatively high velocity can be supplied at the various connection points (element transfer point, interface).

[0036] For example, the gas supply line surrounds the element line. For example, the element line is contained within the gas supply line. For example, the element line is contained within the gas supply line. For example, the gas supply line and the element line are configured as a pipe-within-a-pipe arrangement or as a hose-within-a-hose arrangement. This allows for a comparatively compact design of the feed device. For example, this simplifies the assembly of the feed device.

[0037] Furthermore, it is proposed that the valve be designed as a 3 / 2-way valve. This results in a comparatively simple and compact design for the feeding device.

[0038] For example, the first port of the 3 / 2-way valve is connected to the recess, allowing a gas flow from the element line or a section of line to exit through the recess and the 3 / 2-way valve at a second port. For example, the second port of the 3 / 2-way valve is connected to the environment or ambient air, allowing the element line or section of the element line to be vented via the 3 / 2-way valve. For example, a third port of the 3 / 2-way valve is connected to the gas supply line, allowing a gas flow from the gas supply line to be introduced into the element line or a section of the element line via the 3 / 2-way valve and the recess.

[0039] It is also conceivable that instead of the 3 / 2-way valve, two 2 / 2-way valves are present, with the two 2 / 2-way valves connected to the interface opening or the recess of the element line via a Y-connection line. For example, one of the two 2 / 2-way valves is connected to the gas supply line. For example, a second of the two 2 / 2-way valves is connected to the environment or ambient air at a second port. For example, a control system is present so that the two 2 / 2-way valves can be controlled such that either a gas flow can be supplied to the element line via the first 2 / 2-way valve, or the element line can be vented via the second 2 / 2-way valve.

[0040] For example, the 3 / 2-way valve or the 2 / 2-way valve is designed as a solenoid valve. For example, the 3 / 2-way valve or the 2 / 2-way valve is designed as a pneumatic valve.

[0041] It is also proposed that a venting mechanism for the element line be implemented at one valve position. This allows the element line to be vented at the interface, thereby reducing the line resistance. For example, the line resistance can be divided into sections of the element line. This allows, for instance, a pressure loss along the entire length of the element line to be advantageously distributed across the individual sections, thus enabling the element to be conveyed even over relatively long distances within the element line.

[0042] For example, the element line or the interface of the element line is open in a valve position, so that the element line is connected to the environment and vents to the environment. For instance, the 3 / 2-way valve can be switched such that either a gas flow can be supplied via the third port or the element line can be vented via the second port.

[0043] It is also proposed that the feeding device include a sensor element, the sensor element being arranged on the element line, and the sensor element being configured to detect the element transported through the element line when the element is within the sensor element's detection range. This enables control of the feeding device, in particular control of the feeding device's valves.

[0044] For example, the sensor element can be designed as a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, an inductive sensor, and / or a pressure sensor. The sensor element can be integrated into the element cable and / or the interface. It is also conceivable that the sensor element is integrated into the element cable and / or the interface. Furthermore, the sensor element can enclose the element cable or be arranged around the element cable.

[0045] It is conceivable that the sensor element is located at the interface or in the area around the interface on the element line. It is also conceivable that the sensor element is located upstream or downstream of the interface, viewed in the direction of element transport or gas flow.

[0046] Furthermore, it is proposed that the sensor element is configured to output a switching signal when the sensor element has detected an element in the sensor area of ​​the sensor element, so that the switching signal causes the valve to switch from one position to another position, with the sensor element being connected to the valve, for example.

[0047] For example, the feeding device has a control unit. It is conceivable that the sensor element and / or the valve are connected to the control unit. It is also conceivable that the sensor element sends the switching signal to the control unit, and the control unit receives and processes the switching signal. For example, the control unit outputs a control signal by means of which the valve is controlled or switched.

[0048] It is also conceivable that the control system is connected to other components of the feeding device and receives, processes, and / or controls signals from them. For example, the control system is coupled or connected to the gas flow generation unit.

[0049] It is also proposed that the feeding device have as many sensor elements as there are cable sections, or that the feeding device have as many sensor elements as there are interfaces. This allows for comparatively precise control of the feeding device. In particular, this makes it possible to identify malfunctions in the feeding device relatively quickly.

[0050] It is further proposed that the feed device incorporates the gas flow generation unit, which is designed as a turbomachine. The decentralized arrangement of the gas flow generation unit on the feed device results in a comparatively higher energy efficiency.

[0051] For example, the gas flow generation unit is designed to provide a gas flow, e.g., in the form of an air flow. The supply device may, for instance, include the gas flow generation unit. However, it is also conceivable that the gas flow generation unit exists as a separate unit from the supply device and, for example, supplies other components besides the supply device with a gas flow.

[0052] The gas flow generation unit operates, for example, according to the dynamic compressor principle. In the dynamic compressor principle, air is drawn in between the blades of a rapidly rotating compressor impeller and accelerated to a high speed. Gas compressor units operating according to the dynamic compressor principle are often dynamic compressors, such as turbo compressors with an axial or radial flow pattern.

[0053] The gas flow generation unit, for example, includes a gas compressor unit that operates on the dynamic compressor principle and comprises an axial turbo compressor. It is also conceivable that the gas flow generation unit includes a radial turbo compressor. For example, the gas flow generation unit is designed as a fan and / or a blower.

[0054] According to one variant, the gas flow generation device is designed to provide a pressure level that is below 0.3 bar above an outlet pressure, or below 0.2 bar above an outlet pressure, or below 0.1 bar above an outlet pressure, wherein the gas flow generation device operates according to the positive displacement principle. The outlet pressure reflects, for example, the pressure level of the intake air and is typically in the range of 1 bar or ambient air pressure.

[0055] Using the example of a simply designed feeding device with an element line, which is divided into two line sections and has an interface and a 3 / 2 way valve, a control sequence is explained below: - A gas power generation unit is connected to the element transfer point and the interface with the element line via the gas power supply line. - In a first step, an element is fed into the element line at the element transfer point. - In a further step, the 3 / 2 way valve at the interface is switched in such a way that the element line is open to the environment and is vented into the environment. - In a further step, the element is accelerated at the element transfer point by the gas flow of the gas flow generation device in the direction of the interface or in the direction of the connection point, gas flow direction and / or element transport direction. - In a further step, the element is detected, for example, by means of the sensor element. This allows it to be concluded that the element has passed the interface in the transport direction. If the timing of the elements is known, it may even be possible to dispense with the use of sensor elements in the area of ​​the interfaces. - In a further step, the 3 / 2-way valve is switched so that a gas flow can be supplied to the gas flow generation device of the element line at the interface. This results in a pressure difference of approximately 0 in the first line section, for example. This, in turn, accelerates the element in the second line section again due to the gas flow. - In a further step, the element exits the element line at the connection point and the process starts again.

[0056] Another embodiment of the invention is a tool with a feeding device according to one of the aforementioned variants or a processing device with a feeding device according to one of the aforementioned variants.

[0057] The tool is, for example, a setting tool or a pressing, punching, and / or clinching tool. The processing device is, for example, a tool for clinching, riveting, punch riveting, and / or pressing in elements such as functional elements and other press-fit components. The processing device is specifically designed to pick up elements, for example, from an element feeder such as a transport channel or feed hose, and to process and attach them to a workpiece. For example, the elements can be pressed and / or punched into a single- or multi-layer component using the processing device.

[0058] For example, the tool is mounted on a robot arm. The processing device may include the robot arm and / or the tool. It is conceivable that the feed line of the feeding device is mounted along the robot arm. It is also conceivable that the feed line is flexible, allowing it to follow movements, such as those of the robot arm, or to deform accordingly.

[0059] For example, the tool or processing equipment includes the gas flow generation device. Character description

[0060] Further features and advantages are explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown schematically in the figures. Specifically, the figures show: Fig. 1. A diagram of a variant of a feeding device, Fig. 2 a diagram of another variant of a feeding device, Fig. 3 a side view of an element pipe with recess and Fig. 4 a cross-section of the element conduit in the area of ​​the recess.

[0061] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a feeding device 1. The feeding device 1 has an element line 2, which is connected at a first end 3 to an element transfer point 4 and at a second end 5 to a connection point 6. At the connection point 6, the feeding device 1 can be coupled to a tool or processing device 7. For example, the element line 2 extends along an element transport direction E from the element transfer point 4 to the connection point 6.

[0062] Furthermore, the feed device 1 has a gas supply line 8. For example, the gas supply line 8 is connected to a gas generation unit 9, which generates and provides a gas flow G. The gas supply line 8 runs, for example, in the form of a parallel line or a bypass line parallel to the element line 2 and is connected at a point 10 to the first end 3 and / or the element transfer point 4 and at another point 11 to an interface 12 of the feed device 1.

[0063] Furthermore, the feeding device 1 can have a sensor element 13 which is arranged on the element line 2 in order to detect an element which can be transported inside the interior of the element line 2.

[0064] For example, the feed device 1 has a valve 14. The valve 14 is, for example, designed as a 3 / 2-way valve. For example, the valve 14 is connected to the interface 12 via a first port 15. It is conceivable that the interface 12 has an opening 16 which is connected to the first port 15. For example, the valve 14 has a second port 17 which is connected to the ambient air via an air filter 18. For example, the valve 14 has a third port 19 which is connected to the gas supply line 8.

[0065] For example, the sensor element 13 is connected to a valve control 20 via a line 21, so that the valve 14 can be switched or moved from a first position to a second position by means of a switching signal from the sensor element 13.

[0066] For example, the element conduit 8 is divided by the interface 12 into a first conduit section A and a second conduit section B. For example, conduit sections A and B extend approximately the same length along the element transport direction E.

[0067] The transport process now proceeds as follows: - Feeding an element to element transfer point 4 - Switching the valve 4 to a first position, so that the element line 2 can be vented via the interface 12 and the air filter 18, so that gas, e.g. air from the element line 2 can be released into an environment via the air filter 18 - Acceleration of the element by the gas flow G in the element transport direction E or in the direction of interface 12 - Movement of the element beyond interface 12 into the second line section B - Detection of the element by the sensor element 13 in the second line section B - Sending a switching signal from the sensor element 13 via line 21 to the valve 14 - Switching of the valve 14 from the first position to a second position based on the switching signal, so that a gas flow from the gas supply line 8 can be introduced via the valve 14 into the element line 2. For example, in the second position, venting of the element line 2 via the air filter 18 is not possible. - Inflow of the gas flow via interface 12 into the second line section B and thereby renewed acceleration of the element in element transport direction E towards connection point 6 - Exit of the element at connection point 6

[0068] For example, in the first line section A, after switching the valve 14 to the second position, there is a pressure difference of approximately 0, since the gas flow of the gas flow generating device 9 is present at this moment at both the element transfer point 4 and the interface 12.

[0069] In Fig. Figure 2 shows another variant of a feeding device 31. In contrast to feeding device 1, the element line 32 of feeding device 31 is divided into four line sections F, G, H, and I. For example, feeding device 31 has three interfaces 33, three valves 34, and three sensor elements 35 for this reason. It is conceivable that the interfaces 33, the valves 34, and the sensor elements 35 of feeding device 31 correspond to interface 12, valve 14, and sensor element 13 of feeding device 1. It is conceivable that the interfaces 33 are identical. It is conceivable that the valves 34 are identical. For example, the sensor elements 35 are identical. It is also conceivable that the other components of feeding device 31 correspond to the components of feeding device 1.For example, the components of feed device 1 and the components of feed device 31 differ only in the number of line sections and, if applicable, in the length of the element lines or gas flow supply line 8, 36. For example, feed device 31 has a longer element transport distance from the element transfer point to the connection point compared to feed device 1.

[0070] The transport process in the feeding device 31 according to Fig. Step 2 proceeds analogously to the transport sequence of feeder 1, except that the element is transported via several line sections H, I, J, K. The sequence is as follows: - Feeding an element to element transfer point 4 - Switching the valve 4 to a first position so that the element line 32 can be vented via the interface 33, i.e., so that gas, e.g., air, can be released from the element line 32 into an environment. - Acceleration of the element by the gas flow G in the element transport direction E or in the direction of the first interface 33 (in the first line section H) - Movement of the element beyond the first interface 33 into the second line section I - Detection of the element by the first sensor element 35 in the second line section I - Sending a switching signal from the first sensor element 35 to the first valve 34 - Switching the first valve 34 from the first position to a second position, so that a gas flow from the gas flow supply line 36 can be fed into the element line 32 via the first valve 34. - Inflow of the gas flow via the first interface 33 into the second line section I and thereby re-acceleration of the element in element transport direction E towards the second interface 33 - Repeat the previous process (according to the number of line sections): - Movement of the element beyond the second interface 33 into the third line section J - Detection of the element by the second sensor element 35 in the third line section J - Sending a switching signal from the second sensor element 35 to the second valve 34 - Switching the second valve 34 from the first position to a second position, so that a gas flow from the gas flow supply line 36 can be fed into the element line 32 via the second valve 34. - Inflow of the gas flow via the second interface 33 into the third line section J and thereby re-acceleration of the element in element transport direction E towards the third interface 33 or fourth line section K - After renewed acceleration in line section K, the element exits at connection point 6.

[0071] For example, in the element transport direction E, there exists a pressure difference of approximately 0 in the line section preceding the interface as soon as the valve at the interface is switched to the second position, since the gas flow of the gas flow generating device 9 is present at both ends of the preceding line section at that moment.

[0072] For a higher clock rate, it is also conceivable that, at the moment the second valve 34 switches to the second position, the first valve 34 switches from the second position to the first position, so that the element line 32 is vented again at the first interface 33 and the first line section is thus ready for another element to be inserted into the first line section H and accelerated. For example, the other existing line sections are switched or controlled accordingly. A prerequisite for such a procedure is, for example, that sufficient gas flow (volume and velocity) can be provided at the connection points to the element line 32 via the gas flow supply line 32, and that the gas flow generation device 9 and the gas flow supply line are therefore designed and dimensioned accordingly.

[0073] Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view from the outside of a section of an element conduit 22, which has a recess 23. It is shown that the recess 23 cuts out a region of the element conduit sheath 24, or that the recess 23 forms a cut-out or punched-out region of the element conduit sheath 24.

[0074] In Fig. 4 is a top view of a cross-section Q according to Fig. 3 of the element conduit 22 is shown. In dashed form 25, the actual course of an outer surface of the element conduit sheath 24 is shown, and in dashed form 26, the actual course of an inner surface 27 of the hollow inner area 28 of the element conduit 22 is shown. Fig. Figure 4 shows that the recess 23 cuts out an area of ​​the element conductor sheath 24 in such a way that contact between the inner area 28 and an environment 29, in particular an ambient air, is realized and gas, e.g. air, can escape from the inner area 28 into the environment 29 or vice versa (shown by arrows).

[0075] Also shown in Fig. 4 is an element of 30. In Fig. Figure 4 shows that an inner contour of the inner surface 27 is adapted, for example, to an outer shape of the element 30. It is also shown that the recess 23 is present on the element guide 22 in such a way that the transport of the element 30 along the element transport direction E is not impeded. Reference symbol list 1 Feeding device 2 element line 3 End 4 element transfer point 5 End 6 Junction 7 tools 8 Gas power supply line 9 Gas power generation plant 10th place 11th place 12 Interface 13 Sensor element 14 valve 15 connection 16 Opening 17 connection 18 air filters 19 connection 20 Valve control 21 Management 22 Element line 23 Exclusion 24 element conductor sheath 25 Form 26 Form 27 Inside 28 Indoor areas 29 Surroundings 30 Element 31 Feeding device 32 element lines 33 Interface 34 valve 35 Sensor element 36 Gas power supply line A section of the line B Line section E element transport direction G Gas flow H section of the line Section I JK Line section Line section Q cross-section

Claims

[1] Feeding device (1), wherein the feeding device (1) has a hollow element line (2), wherein an element can be moved through the element line (2) from an element transfer point (4) of the element line (2) to a connection point (6) of the element line (2), wherein an element can be introduced into the element line (2) at the element transfer point (4), wherein the element line (2) can be connected to a processing device (7) at the connection point (6) and the element can be transported out of the element line (2) at the connection point (6) so that the element can be transferred to the processing device (7), wherein the element can be transported by means of a gas flow in the element line (2) up to the connection point (6), wherein a gas flow generating device (9) can be connected to the element line (2) so that the gas flow in the element line (2) is provided in such a way thatthat, due to the gas flow, the element is movable from the element transfer point (4) through the element line (2) to the connection point (6), wherein the element line (2) is divided into at least a first and a second line section (A, B) by means of an interface (12), wherein the feed device (1) is designed such that the element line (2) can be vented at the interface (12). [2] Feeding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a gas supply line (8) is available which can be connected to a gas generation unit (9), wherein an internal cross-sectional area of ​​the element line (2) is smaller than an internal cross-sectional area of ​​the gas supply line (8). [3] Feeding device (1) according to the preceding claim 2, characterized by, that a valve (14) is arranged at the interface (12), wherein the gas flow supply line (8) is connected to the valve (14), so that in a first valve position of the valve (14) a gas flow from the gas flow generating device (9) can be introduced into the element line (2) via the valve (14). [4] Feeding device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the interface (12) is positioned on the element line (2) such that the element line (2) is divided by the interface (12) into line sections of equal length or that the element line (2) is divided by the interface into two line sections with a length ratio of 1 / 3 to 2 / 3. [5] Feeding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 4, characterized by, that the element line (2) is divided into more than two line sections (A, B) by means of a further interface, wherein a valve (14) is arranged at each of the interfaces (12), wherein the gas flow supply line (8) is connected to the respective valve (14), so that in a first valve position of the respective valve (14) a gas flow from the gas flow supply line (8) can be introduced into the element line (2) via the respective valve (14). [6] Feeding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 3 to 5, characterized by , that the valve (14) is designed as a 3 / 2 way valve. [7] Feeding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 3 to 6, characterized by , that in one position of the valve (14) a venting of the element line (2) is realized. [8] Feeding device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the feed device (1) has a sensor element (13), wherein the sensor element (13) is arranged on the element line (2), wherein the sensor element (13) is configured to detect the element transported through the element line (2) when the element is in the sensor area of ​​the sensor element (13). [9] Feeding device (1) according to the preceding claim 8, characterized by , that the sensor element (13) is configured to output a switching signal when the sensor element (13) has detected an element in the sensor area of ​​the sensor element (13), wherein the sensor element (13) is connected to the valve (14) so ​​that the switching signal causes the valve (14) to switch from one position to another position. [10] Feeding device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the feed device (1) has as many sensor elements (13) as there are line sections or that the feed device (1) has as many sensor elements (13) as there are interfaces (12). [11] Feeding device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the feed device (1) comprises the gas flow generating device (9), wherein the gas flow generating device (9) is designed as a turbomachine. [12] Tool or processing device (7) with a feeding device (1) according to any of the preceding claims.

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