Magnetic coupling arrangement in a conveyor system

Abstract

Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) in a conveyor system (100; 100') comprising at least one drive element (11; 11'; 151) for arrangement on a traction element (120; 120') of the conveyor system (100; 100'), wherein the drive element (11; 11'; 151) has a receiving body (12; 12'; 152) with a receiving space (18; 18'; 58) for receiving a) has at least one magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) in the receiving space (18; 18'; 58), wherein the magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) can be coupled at its coupling side (A) to a coupling side (B) of a ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) for the transmission of conveying force, or b) has at least one ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) for a magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) in the receiving space (18; 18'; 58), wherein the ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) can be coupled at its coupling side (B) to a coupling side (A) of a magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) for the transmission of conveying force, and wherein a ferromagnetic plate (19; 19'; 59; 159; 160) is arranged on the magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) on at least one side (C; C'; C'') facing away from the coupling side (A) to define the path of the magnetic field lines on this side of the magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) to shorten.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a magnetic coupling arrangement in a conveyor system, a transport element for a conveyor system, a conveyor system and a method for constructing and maintaining a conveyor system.

[0002] DE 10 2010 010 107 A1 discloses a conveyor system for hanging objects, in which a strand of a revolving drive chain, drivable in a conveying direction, is arranged in a transport rail. The drive chain is designed with downwardly projecting bolts. Below the drive chain, retaining elements mounted on rollers are provided in the transport rail. These retaining elements have an opening at their lower end for receiving the hook of a hanger containing a piece of clothing or a transport bag. The retaining elements each have stops at their upper ends that protrude between adjacent bolts, thus establishing a positive or frictional drive connection between the drive chain and the retaining elements.

[0003] The disadvantage of this known solution is that in the event of a malfunction in the conveyor system, for example, if the retaining elements become jammed, the positive or frictional drive connections cannot be easily separated. As a result, the retaining elements become deformed in the event of a jam and require relatively laborious disassembly and replacement, resulting in a relatively long downtime of the conveyor system.

[0004] EP 0 623 497 B1 discloses an accumulation conveyor in which carriers for conveyed material are mounted on a support rail by means of rotatably mounted rollers and are driven in a conveying direction by a traction device in the form of a friction belt, which is also mounted on the support rail. For the purpose of accumulating carriers as desired, a stop device with a holding finger is provided. This stop device can be retracted into the movement space of the carriers and acts on a spreading device attached to the carrier, causing a lateral pivoting and thus a lifting of the carrier from the friction belt.

[0005] The disadvantage of this known solution is that, due to the friction belt connection between the friction belt and the supports, a constant mechanical load is exerted on the supports, so that they have to be replaced after a short period of use.

[0006] DE 20 2017 107 908 U1 discloses a conveyor system for hanging objects with a revolving, drivable conveyor chain having a plurality of carrier elements. Furthermore, the conveyor system comprises a plurality of transport elements, each transport element having a magnetic coupling element. The coupling elements of the transport elements are coupled contactlessly and releasably to the carrier elements of the conveyor chain via magnetic force.

[0007] A disadvantage of this known solution is that the conveyor system is fixed in size after its initial commissioning, and its conveying capacity is therefore permanently determined. The conveying force between the coupling elements of the transport elements is unchangeable. The coupling force of selected magnets is limited. If higher coupling forces are desired, stronger magnets would have to be installed. Since stronger magnets are significantly more expensive, it can happen that a coupling force initially selected becomes insufficient in operation with regard to the required conveying capacity of the conveyor system.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to remedy one or more disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, a magnetic coupling arrangement in a conveyor system is to be created in which the coupling forces are greater without using stronger magnets. The manufacturing costs are to be kept low. Furthermore, measures are to be taken to keep the influence of the magnets on the overall system through magnetic induction relatively small, so that the known magnetic coupling arrangement is improved in the magnet part. Since the magnets in the conveyor system move along the conveyor line, the moving magnets can induce currents in electronic components, which is undesirable because this can lead to malfunctions in the electronic components.Furthermore, the aim is to create a conveyor system with increased flexibility and low manufacturing costs, as well as a transport element that can interact reliably with the conveyor system. Furthermore, an improved method for installing and maintaining a conveyor system is to be developed, thereby increasing the conveyor capacity and assembly reliability of this conveyor system.

[0009] The problem is solved by the arrangements, devices, and methods defined in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are set forth in the description, the figures, and the dependent claims.

[0010] An inventive magnetic coupling arrangement in a conveyor system comprises at least one drive element for mounting on a traction element of the conveyor system. The drive element has – as is already known – a receiving body with a receiving space for receiving (a)) at least one magnet in the receiving space, wherein the magnet can be brought into coupling contact at its coupling side with a coupling side of a ferromagnetic counterpart for transmitting the conveying force.

[0011] Alternatively, the drive element – ​​as already known – has a receiving body with a receiving space for receiving (b)) at least one ferromagnetic counterpart for a magnet in the receiving space, wherein the ferromagnetic counterpart can be brought into coupling contact with a coupling side of another magnet for conveying force transmission at its coupling side.

[0012] A ferromagnetic plate is newly arranged on at least one side of the magnet facing away from the coupling side in order to shorten the path of the magnetic force lines on this side of the magnet.

[0013] The ferromagnetic plate according to the invention, attached to the magnet, deflects the magnetic field lines emanating from the side of the magnet located on the ferromagnetic plate in such a way that they shorten and thus become more concentrated. This increases the conveying force acting on the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart, enabling the transport element to be reliably carried along without having to reduce the conveying speed in the conveyor system. Furthermore, the size of the at least one magnet required for a specific conveying force can be reduced, thereby lowering the manufacturing costs in a conveyor system. In other words, a greater coupling force and thus a greater conveying force can be generated with the same magnet.

[0014] The ferromagnetic plate not only densifies the magnetic field lines, but also shields other components in the conveyor system from the magnet's magnetic field lines. This prevents unwanted magnetization or the induction of magnetic fields in other components – e.g., electronic components such as electronic sensors – within the conveyor system, according to the invention.

[0015] Furthermore, with equally dimensioned / designed magnets, the conveying capacity and / or the transport efficiency of the conveyor system can be increased simultaneously, allowing objects of different sizes and / or weights to be transported in the conveyor system at the same time.

[0016] The magnetic coupling arrangement enables, as is known per se but now improved, contactless conveying of at least one transport element. Objects are arranged on or in the transport element – ​​as is known per se – which are moved along the conveying system. For interaction with the at least one magnet, the transport element includes, at least partially, the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart.

[0017] To exert the greatest possible coupling force on the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart, care should be taken to ensure that the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart does not become magnetically saturated. The principle here is that magnetic saturation is reached later with a larger volume of the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart than with a smaller volume, and vice versa.

[0018] Advantageously, at least one ferromagnetic counterpart therefore has a volume of 50 mm². 3 up to 400 mm 3 This ensures that magnetic saturation of the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is sufficiently prevented. For example, the ferromagnetic counterpart is made of a steel alloy. In particular, the ferromagnetic counterpart has the specification 1.0715 (11SMN30+Ci). Specifically, the volume of the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart must be designed proportionally to the magnetization saturation of the at least one magnet. If the volume of the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is undersized, magnetic saturation will occur, preventing the maximum conveying force transmission achievable by the at least one magnet from being reached in the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart.

[0019] Advantageously, the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart has a square area, so that the projected area of ​​the coupling side of the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart can be increased. This allows the ferromagnetic counterpart to receive an increased magnetic field flux from the magnet, thus increasing the coupling force on the transport element through this further development of the invention. However, care must be taken to ensure that the magnetization in the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is not saturated.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is also a magnet. The magnetic pole of the ferromagnetic counterpart is arranged complementarily to the magnetic pole of the at least one magnet on the at least one drive element, so that the coupling force can be further increased. For example, this can reduce the overall weight of the magnetic coupling assembly. If the ferromagnetic counterpart itself is designed as a magnet, it can have a smaller volume while maintaining the same coupling force.

[0021] A complementary arrangement of magnets on the coupling side comprises at least two magnets, wherein these magnets are arranged such that the south pole of a first magnet is opposite the north pole of a second magnet, or vice versa.

[0022] Preferably, each magnet – including the one forming the ferromagnetic counterpart – is assigned a ferromagnetic plate on at least one of its sides facing away from the coupling side, with the magnets arranged such that their north and south poles are opposite each other. For example, a first magnet can be arranged on the at least one drive element and a second magnet on the transport element, wherein the first magnet is arranged complementary to the second magnet, and a first ferromagnetic plate is arranged on the first magnet and a second ferromagnetic plate is arranged on the second magnet. This shortens the path of the respective magnetic field lines of the respective magnets and thus increases their coupling force or the conveying force transmission according to the invention.

[0023] In particular, the at least one magnet arranged on the ferromagnetic plate is diametrically magnetized. This closes the magnetic field lines in the area of ​​the ferromagnetic counterpart, allowing it to be easily magnetized.

[0024] Preferably, the ferromagnetic plate is angled on at least one side. One side of the ferromagnetic plate rests directly against the at least one magnet, while the side of the ferromagnetic plate at an angle to it provides a holding connection with the receiving body of the at least one drive element or with the base body of the transport element.

[0025] Preferably, an adjustable air gap extends between the coupling side of the at least one magnet and the coupling side of the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart, the spatial extent of which lies between 0.05 mm and 5 mm in at least one direction. The air gap ensures contactless movement of the transport elements, thereby reducing material wear on the transport element, which is typically guided in a conveyor rail of the conveyor system, during conveyance through the conveyor system. Furthermore, the air gap reduces the risk of magnetic saturation in the ferromagnetic counterpart, thus ensuring adjustable conveying force transmission.

[0026] The air gap between the at least one magnet and the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart can be adjusted, for example, using a magnetizing device. The at least one magnet can be magnetized so strongly that its increased magnetic force acts on the ferromagnetic counterpart. This attracts the ferromagnetic counterpart, which is located, for example, on the transport element, more strongly, thus shortening the air gap. The conveyor rail in which the transport element is arranged prevents the ferromagnetic counterpart from coming into direct contact with the magnet. The air gap between the at least one magnet and the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart can extend essentially in a vertical direction. This makes it possible to convey vertically arranged transport elements.

[0027] However, the air gap between at least one magnet and the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart can alternatively extend essentially in a horizontal direction. For example, the coupling side of the at least one magnet and the coupling side of the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart can be horizontally opposed. This allows a transport element located laterally to the at least one drive element to be conveyed easily.

[0028] Preferably, the air gap between the at least one magnet and the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is adjustable using a mechanical adjusting device. The adjusting device can be arranged either on the traction means of the conveyor system or on the conveyor rail arrangement of the conveyor system. An insert—for example, a plastic insert—can serve as the adjusting device, which changes the distance between the traction means and the transport element and thus changes the air gap.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, the adjusting device comprises a lifting drive that changes the distance between the at least one magnet arranged on the traction device and the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart arranged on the transport element – ​​optionally remotely controlled. This allows the air gap to be adjusted very precisely and, if necessary, continuously.

[0030] Preferably, the spatial extent of the air gap in at least one direction is between 0.1 mm and 3 mm. This further improves the transfer of conveying force to the transport element and prevents unwanted magnetization of the ferromagnetic counterpart.

[0031] Preferably, the ferromagnetic plate for influencing the conveying force transmission is detachably mounted on the magnet. This allows the ferromagnetic plate to be separated and replaced at least at one drive element or at least one ferromagnetic counterpart. Removing the ferromagnetic plate reduces both the coupling force and the weight of the assembly.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, the ferromagnetic plate is arranged so that it can be adjusted relative to at least one magnet. For example, the ferromagnetic plate can be rotatably arranged relative to the magnet. Rotating the ferromagnetic plate—given a suitable design—changes the path of the magnetic field lines and thus their spatial density. This allows the magnetic flux density at the coupling side of the magnet to be changed, thereby adjusting the force transmission to the conveying element. To further enhance this effect, the ferromagnetic plate can also have a preferred metallurgical molecular structure (orientation), such as a rolling direction.

[0033] In another embodiment, the ferromagnetic plate is bonded to the at least one magnet. Thus, the ferromagnetic plate is firmly connected to this magnet – for example, by gluing – and unwanted slippage of the ferromagnetic plate relative to this magnet is prevented. This allows the conveying force transmission in the magnetic coupling arrangement to be kept constant.

[0034] Preferably, at least one additional magnet is placed next to each magnet, which is likewise connected to the ferromagnetic plate on at least one side facing away from the coupling side. This allows the transmission of conveying force to be further improved, for example, when high coupling forces are required.

[0035] Advantageously, the additional magnet is also integrally bonded to another ferromagnetic plate, at least on its side facing away from the coupling side. This prevents unwanted slippage of the ferromagnetic plate, so that the field line density remains unchanged. Furthermore, the ferromagnetic plate may also act as a holding device for the magnets, particularly if one side of the ferromagnetic plate bears directly against the additional magnet and the side of the ferromagnetic plate positioned at an angle to it cooperates with the receiving body of the at least one driver element or with the base body of the transport element.

[0036] Preferably, the additional magnet is arranged laterally adjacent to the existing magnet(s). This allows for an effective distribution of magnetic fields within the magnetic coupling arrangement, thereby improving the transmission of the conveying force to the transport element.

[0037] Preferably, the magnetic poles of the second magnet are aligned complementarily to the magnetic poles of the first magnet. A complementary alignment of the two magnets increases the magnetic field line density in the boundary region between the two magnets. This allows the ferromagnetic counterpart to be held stably in the vicinity of this boundary region.

[0038] Preferably, an insulating layer is provided between the magnet and at least one other magnet. The insulating layer can comprise a non-magnetic material, which allows the magnetic field lines to be easily deflected, thus enabling the use of smaller magnets in the magnetic coupling arrangement.

[0039] Preferably, the insulating layer is formed by an air gap. An air gap between the at least one magnet and the at least one other magnet allows, on the one hand, a lightweight design for the at least one drive element or the transport element. On the other hand, this design has an even stronger centering effect on the ferromagnetic counterpart in the case of coupling.

[0040] Preferably, the magnets and the other magnets are cuboid-shaped. Cuboid-shaped magnets can be arranged close to each other over a large area, so that their magnetic lines of force exhibit a particularly suitable field line distribution in the boundary region. This allows the magnetic coupling arrangement to be constructed compactly.

[0041] Alternatively, the magnets and other magnets are cylindrical in shape, which allows the magnets to be easily mounted so that they can be arranged centrally adjacent to the ferromagnetic counterpart.

[0042] The magnets and the other magnets are preferably made of sintered material. This allows for the creation of powerful magnets. For example, sintered neodymium is used, especially in grades N35 to N54.

[0043] The magnets and the other magnets are advantageously axially magnetized. An axially magnetized magnet has a south pole and a north pole in sections along its longitudinal axis. Axially magnetized magnets can be easily arranged next to each other.

[0044] Alternatively, the magnets and the other magnets are diametrically magnetized. A diametrically magnetized magnet has a south pole and a north pole perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. Diametrically magnetized magnets can easily be stacked on top of each other.

[0045] In particular, the magnets are chemically nickel-plated on their surface. This prevents the magnets from corroding, even in humid or aggressive environments. They are also easier to clean and abrasion-resistant. Furthermore, any metal shavings that may have adhered to the nickel-plated surface due to the magnetic effect can be removed more easily.

[0046] Preferably, the receiving body has at least two retaining clips that hold at least the ferromagnetic plate in a form-fitting manner. This prevents the ferromagnetic plate from slipping into an undesired position or becoming lost in the conveyor system. The form-fitting connection between the receiving body and the ferromagnetic plate enables easy replacement of the ferromagnetic plate.

[0047] In particular, the receiving body is made of non-magnetic material, which means that the receiving body does not or hardly influences the field line distribution.

[0048] Preferably, the receiving body is made of plastic. This allows the weight of at least one drive element to be kept low and simplifies its manufacture, e.g., as an injection-molded part.

[0049] Preferably, the receiving body has at least one traction element connection for connecting the at least one drive element to a traction element. The traction element connection on the at least one drive element allows for easy installation on the traction element, so that when replacing the at least one drive element, the conveyor system experiences only a short downtime.

[0050] Preferably, at least one of the traction element connections is designed as a bolt. The bolt can be inserted directly into and removed from the traction element. For example, in a conveyor chain, the bolt can serve as a holding element and also force-fit two adjacent conveyor chain links together, thus eliminating the need for additional measures.

[0051] In particular, the traction element connection comprises two bolts, ensuring that the drive element, and thus the at least one magnet, is fixedly positioned on the traction element – ​​for example, secured against rotation relative to the conveying direction of the traction element. This prevents changes in the magnitude and / or direction of the magnetic force lines and keeps the conveying force transmission to the transport element constant.

[0052] An inventive transport element for a conveyor system comprises a base body including a coupling section and a conveying section, wherein the coupling section is designed for connection to the conveyor system and has at least one ferromagnetic counterpart, and the conveying section has conveying means for guidance within the conveyor system. The at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is incorporated into the base body and thus connected to it by force-fit or form-fit. Alternatively, the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is detachably arranged on the coupling section.

[0053] The transport element is typically made of plastic, as it needs to be lightweight and durable. At least one ferromagnetic counterpart can be positively integrated into a receptacle on the coupling section, or incorporated into the plastic, for example, by overmolding it. This can be achieved, for instance, by multiple ferromagnetic counterparts, thus making the coupling section itself ferromagnetic. This reduces the overall weight of the transport element.

[0054] Preferably, at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is incorporated into the coupling section using a forming process. For example, the ferromagnetic counterpart is injected into the coupling section as a plurality of ferromagnetic counterparts or as a whole. At least the coupling section of the transport element is designed as a two-component plastic injection-molded part – optionally with fiber reinforcement.

[0055] Preferably, the base body of the transport element has a communication section that includes a recognition device. This allows at least the position of the transport element in the conveyor system to be determined. Furthermore, the recognition device can contain information about the product arranged on the transport element.

[0056] In particular, the base body includes a load section designed for arranging load objects. The load section is the section of the transport element furthest from the traction element and, in the event of a pendulum motion of the transport element on the conveyor system, is highly likely to collide with another element of the conveyor system. Due to the magnetic coupling arrangement described here, it can be newly and advantageously ensured that neither the transport element nor any other component of the conveyor system is mechanically deformed, since the transport element can automatically detach from the magnetic coupling arrangement in the event of excessive pendulum motion and is not forced further against resistance and with material deformation.

[0057] Preferably, the transport element features an ingress protection device. This ingress protection device prevents the load section from penetrating the traction element and / or a conveyor rail of the conveyor system. The ingress protection device is advantageously arranged on the load section or is an integral part of the load section. The ingress protection device can be a widened section on the load section, the width of which is dimensioned such that this section cannot penetrate the opening of the conveyor rail. This allows for the production of a cost-effective and durable transport element and, in particular, improves the operational stability of the conveyor system.

[0058] An inventive conveying system for transporting hanging or standing objects comprises a traction element and a conveying drive for driving the traction element, wherein the conveying system comprises at least one drive element and at least one transport element, between which a magnetic coupling arrangement as described here is provided.

[0059] According to the invention, the conveyor system can be flexibly expanded using the magnetic coupling arrangements arranged thereon. The traction means of a conveyor system and thus the carriers arranged thereon can typically be moved along a closed conveyor path. The traction means can move in a first conveyor rail of a conveyor rail arrangement, and the transport elements arranged on the conveyor system can move in a second conveyor rail of the conveyor rail arrangement. In addition to a substantially horizontal conveyor path, the conveyor path can also have an incline or a decline. The magnetic coupling arrangement as described here can transport transport elements arranged thereon along the inclines of the conveyor path.In addition, the magnetic coupling arrangement can also be used to brake freely moving transport elements that would otherwise be accelerated by gravity on a gradient in the conveyor line. For example, a transport element can be braked or decelerated on gradients of up to 15°. This eliminates the otherwise necessary mechanical stoppers in the gradient area along the conveyor line, reducing the overall costs of the conveyor system and increasing its flexibility. Furthermore, maintenance costs can be reduced, as the otherwise necessary stoppers would have to be replaced from time to time due to wear.

[0060] In particular, the traction element is a conveyor chain. A conveyor chain is a reliable traction element that can be adapted as needed, for example by increasing or decreasing the number of conveyor chain links.

[0061] Preferably, an adjusting device is provided for setting the distance between the traction element and the at least one transport element. The adjusting device allows the distance between the at least one magnet and the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart to be set, thereby making the air gap in the magnetic coupling arrangement adjustable.

[0062] Preferably, the conveyor system has an additional drive element, which is spaced apart from the first drive element on the traction element. Multiple drive elements increase the conveying capacity of the conveyor system, since each drive element can transport at least one transport element.

[0063] Preferably, the distance between the drive element and the next drive element along the traction element is adjustable between 10 mm and 1500 mm. This allows the pitch spacing along the traction element to be adjusted, enabling the conveyor system to be equipped with transport elements of varying sizes or to accommodate loads arranged on the transport elements. This further increases the flexibility of the conveyor system.

[0064] In particular, the distance between the drive element and the next drive element along the traction element is adjustable between 15 mm and 250 mm. This allows for a good compromise between the conveying capacity and flexibility of the conveyor system.

[0065] An inventive method for constructing and maintaining a conveyor system as described here comprises the following steps: - Provision of a magnetization device on the conveyor system, which can be temporarily arranged on the conveyor system or can also be a component of the conveyor system. - Magnetization of at least one magnet or at least one ferromagnetic counterpart with a magnetic force using the magnetization device before commissioning of the conveyor system.

[0066] This allows the magnets and / or the transport elements in the magnetic coupling arrangement to be individually magnetized. According to the invention, the magnetization of the respective magnets or transport elements is only carried out at the installation site of the conveyor system using a magnetization device.

[0067] Preferably, before commissioning, another magnet or another ferromagnetic counterpart is magnetized with a magnetic force using the magnetization device.

[0068] If multiple magnets are used as coupling elements to their ferromagnetic counterparts along a traction device, they can be magnetized differently to assign different coupling / conveying forces to them. This further increases the flexibility of the conveyor system.

[0069] A magnetizing device according to the invention for magnetizing at least one magnet or at least one ferromagnetic counterpart is used on an installed conveyor system with a magnetic coupling arrangement. This allows the at least one magnet or the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart to be magnetized with any predefined magnetic force, thus increasing the flexibility of the conveyor system as described herein.

[0070] If a magnetizing device is located on the conveyor system, the magnets can also be remagnetized during maintenance.

[0071] The magnetizing device could also be used to demagnetize any unwanted magnetized counterparts, so that full functionality and full conveying power are restored in the event of maintenance.

[0072] An inventive conveying system for transporting hanging objects comprises a traction element and a conveying drive for driving the traction element, wherein the conveying system comprises at least one transport element, wherein the traction element comprises an electromagnetic levitation system or an electrodynamic levitation system.

[0073] With this type of conveyor system, the transport elements can be inserted into and removed from the conveyor line at any point. This not only increases the conveying capacity but also creates a flexible conveyor system. The conveyor system described above allows for stepless adjustment of the magnetic force transmission to the transport element, for example, by continuously increasing or decreasing the currents in the electrodynamic levitation system.

[0074] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which describes exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the figures. Lists such as first, second, third, or further serve merely to identify the components.

[0075] The list of reference symbols, like the technical content of the patent claims and figures, is part of the disclosure. The figures are described coherently and comprehensively. Identical reference symbols indicate identical components; reference symbols with different indices indicate functionally identical or similar components.

[0076] They show: Fig. 1 a first embodiment of a magnetic coupling arrangement according to the invention, Fig. 2 a second embodiment of a magnetic coupling arrangement according to the invention, Fig. 3 a third embodiment of a magnetic coupling arrangement according to the invention, Fig. 4 a simulation of the magnetic field line distribution in a magnetic coupling arrangement according to Fig. 1 or Fig. 2, Fig. 5 a fourth embodiment of a magnetic coupling arrangement according to the invention, Fig. 6 a simulation of the magnetic field line distribution in a magnetic coupling arrangement according to Fig. 5, Fig. 7 a fourth embodiment of a magnetic coupling arrangement according to the invention, Fig. 8 a first embodiment of a transport element according to the invention, Fig. 9 another embodiment of a transport element according to the invention, Fig. 10 a first embodiment of a conveying system according to the invention, Fig. 11 the conveyor system according to Fig. 11 in another view, and Fig. 12 another embodiment of a conveying system according to the invention.

[0077] Fig. Figure 1 shows a magnetic coupling arrangement 10a in a conveyor system 100. The magnetic coupling arrangement 10a comprises a drive element 11, which is arranged on a traction element 120 of the conveyor system 100. The drive element 11 has a receiving body 12 made of plastic with a receiving chamber 18 for receiving at least one magnet 15 (as shown). The magnet 15 can be coupled at its coupling side A to a coupling side B of a ferromagnetic counterpart 43 for transmitting the conveying force. A ferromagnetic plate 19 is arranged on the side C of the magnet 15 facing away from the coupling side A in order to shorten the path of the magnetic force lines on this side C of the magnet 15. In this embodiment, the ferromagnetic plate 19 is materially bonded to the magnet 15 and is held in the receiving space 18 by the receiving clips 13, 17.The retaining clips 13, 17 are elastic, so that the ferromagnetic plate 19 and thus also the magnet 15 can be separated from the driver element 11.

[0078] The drive element 11 has two bolts 27, 28 on the receiving body 12, which are connected to the traction element 120 of the conveyor system 100. The bolts 27, 28 are held on the traction element by means of a locking device 29.

[0079] The ferromagnetic counterpart 43 has the specification 1.0715 (11SMn30+Ci) and is surface-nickel-plated, preferably chemically. The ferromagnetic counterpart 43 can be rolled or cold-drawn. The magnet 15 is made of nickel. Alternatively, the magnet 15 can be made of iron or cobalt, or an alloy thereof. Rare earth magnets can also be used.

[0080] An air gap 25 extends between the coupling side A of the magnet 15 and the coupling side B of the ferromagnetic counterpart 43. The extent of this air gap is adjustable by means of the variable magnetic force. The spatial extent is adjustable between 0.05 mm and 5 mm.

[0081] The ferromagnetic counterpart 43 is arranged on a transport element 40, which is used in particular to transport hanging objects. The ferromagnetic counterpart 43 has a cuboid shape with a volume of approximately 150 mm³ in this embodiment. 3 on.

[0082] Fig. Figure 2 shows a magnetic coupling arrangement 10b in a conveyor system 100', which is comparable to the conveyor system 100 according to Fig. The conveyor system 100' is constructed as follows: It includes a traction element 120' comprising a drive element 11' with a receiving body 12' and a receiving chamber 18' for receiving a magnet 15'. The magnet 15' can be coupled at its coupling side A to a coupling side B of a ferromagnetic counterpart 43' for transmitting the conveying force. In this magnetic coupling arrangement 10b, the traction element 120 with the drive element 11' arranged thereon and the ferromagnetic counterpart 43' are spatially interchanged by 180°. A ferromagnetic plate 19' is arranged on the side C of the magnet 15' opposite the coupling side A to shorten the path of the magnetic force lines on this side C of the magnet 15'. The ferromagnetic plate 19' is integrally connected to the magnet 15' and is held in the receiving space 18' by the receiving clamps 13', 17'.The retaining clips 13', 17' are elastic, allowing the ferromagnetic plate 19' and thus also the magnet 15' to be separated from the carrier element 11'. The carrier element 11' has two bolts 27', 28' on the retaining body 12', which are connected to the traction mechanism 120' of the conveyor system 100'. The bolts 27', 28' are held to the traction mechanism by a securing device 29'.

[0083] Fig. Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of a magnetic coupling arrangement 10c, the structure of which is essentially the same as that of the magnetic coupling arrangement 10a according to Fig. 1 corresponds. However, the magnetic coupling arrangement 10c differs from the magnetic coupling arrangement 10a in that the ferromagnetic counterpart 43" is also a magnet. The magnetic poles (NS) of the ferromagnetic counterpart 43" are arranged complementarily to the magnetic poles (SN) of the magnet 15 in the drive element 11.

[0084] As an alternative to the magnetic coupling arrangements 10a to 10c, a further magnetic coupling arrangement comprises a driver element 11 with a receiving body 12, the receiving space 18 of which has a ferromagnetic counterpart 43. The ferromagnetic counterpart 43 can be coupled on its coupling side B to a coupling side A of a magnet 15 for transmitting conveying force. The magnet 15 is arranged on a transport element 40 (alternative not shown).

[0085] Fig. 4 shows an exemplary field line distribution in the magnetic coupling arrangements 10a, 10b according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The magnetic field lines are generated in the axially magnetized magnet 15 and emerge from its north pole N and south pole S. Without the ferromagnetic plate 19 and the ferromagnetic counterpart 43, the field lines would emerge from one pole of the magnet in a uniform, tufted pattern and re-enter the other pole of the magnet 15, forming a closed field line path, as is known. However, the presence of the ferromagnetic plate 19 shortens the path of the magnetic field lines and saturates the ferromagnetic plate 19 on the side C (dark area in 19) facing away from the coupling side A of the magnet 15. This allows an increased magnetic force to be transmitted to the coupling side B of the ferromagnetic counterpart 43, enabling the magnet 15 and the ferromagnetic counterpart 43 to be brought into a more powerful coupling.

[0086] Fig. Figure 5 shows another magnetic coupling arrangement 10d in a conveyor system 100, which is essentially comparable to the previously described magnetic coupling arrangements 10a to 10c. The magnetic coupling arrangement 10d comprises a drive element 51 for mounting on the traction element 120 of the conveyor system 100. The drive element 51 has a receiving body 52 with a receiving chamber 58 for receiving a magnet 55 and a magnet 35. The magnetic poles (NS) of magnet 55 are aligned complementarily to the magnetic poles (SN) of the other magnet 35. The magnets 55 and 35 are arranged adjacent to each other and are in contact with one another. An insulating layer 36 made of non-magnetic material or simply a gap (air) can be arranged between magnet 55 and magnet 35. The magnets 55, 35 are connected at their coupling side A to a coupling side B of a ferromagnetic counterpart 43 for the transmission of conveying force.A ferromagnetic plate 59 is arranged on the magnets 55, 35 on their side C facing away from the coupling side A in order to shorten the path of the magnetic lines of force on this side C of the magnets 55, 35. As already described in the . Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, the ferromagnetic plate 59 is integrally connected to the magnets 55, 35 and is held in the driver element 52.

[0087] Fig. 6 shows a symbolic field line distribution in the magnetic coupling arrangement 10d according to the Fig. 5. The magnetic field lines are generated in the axially magnetized magnets 55 and 35 and emerge at their north pole N and their south pole S. The magnets 55 are arranged laterally adjacent to the magnet 35, with the magnets 55, 35 aligned complementarily to each other. The complementary alignment of the two magnets 55, 35 increases the magnetic field line density in the boundary region 37 between the two magnets 35, 55. The ferromagnetic plate 59 shortens the path of the magnetic force lines. It is saturated in the boundary region of the two magnets 35, 55 at the coupling side A of the magnets 55, 35, opposite side C (dark area in 59).

[0088] This measure allows an increased magnetic force to be transferred to the coupling side B of the ferromagnetic counterpart 43, so that the magnets 55, 35 and the ferromagnetic counterpart 43 can be brought into a more powerful coupling connection with equally strong magnets 55, 35, resulting in improved conveying force transmission.

[0089] Fig. Figure 7 shows another magnetic coupling arrangement 10e in a conveyor system 100, which is essentially comparable to the previously described magnetic coupling arrangements 10a to 10d. The magnetic coupling arrangement 10e comprises a driver element 151 for arranging the traction means 120 of the conveyor system 100. The driver element 151 has a receiving body 152 with a receiving space 158 for receiving a magnet 155 and a magnet 135. The magnetic poles (NS) of the magnet 155 are aligned complementarily to the magnetic poles (SN) of the magnet 135. The magnets 155, 135 are arranged adjacent to one another and bear against one another. The magnets 155, 135 are connected at their coupling side A to a coupling side B of the ferromagnetic counterpart 43 for the transmission of conveying force, with a vertical air gap 175 forming between them. The magnets 155, 135 are connected at their coupling side A on the side opposite the coupling side A.On adjacent sides C' and C'', ferromagnetic plates 159 and 160 are arranged to shorten the path of the magnetic field lines on these sides C' and C'' of the magnets 155, 135. In these embodiments, the ferromagnetic plates 159 and 160 are bonded to the respective magnets 155, 135. The ferromagnetic plates 159 and 160 are angled. One side of each ferromagnetic plate 159 and 160 rests directly against the respective magnets 155, 135. The side of each ferromagnetic plate 159 and 160 that is perpendicular to this side is held in the drive element 152 by means of the retaining clips 153 and 157.

[0090] In a further development of the magnetic coupling device (10a-e) described herein, not shown, the ferromagnetic plate 59 is detachably arranged on the magnets 15, 55, 35 to influence the conveying force transmission. Alternatively or additionally, the ferromagnetic plate 19, 59 is arranged adjustable relative to the magnets 15, 55, 35. For example, the ferromagnetic plate 19, 59 is arranged rotatably relative to the magnets 15, 55, 35. Rotating the ferromagnetic plate 19, 59 changes the path of the magnetic lines of force and thus the spatial density of the magnetic lines of force ( Fig. 1 to Fig. 7).

[0091] Fig. Figure 8 shows a first embodiment of a transport element 40. The transport element 40 for a conveyor system 100 has a base body 41 comprising a coupling section 42 and a conveying section 46, the coupling section 46 being designed for coupling to the conveyor system 100. The Fig. The ferromagnetic counterpart 43, 43', 43'' described in sections 1 to 8 is detachably arranged on the coupling section 46. The conveying section 46 has two conveying rollers as conveying means 47. The base body 41 of the transport element 40 has a communication section 44 with a detection device 45. The base body 41 also has a load section 49, which is designed for arranging load objects. The communication section 44 is arranged between the coupling section 44 and the load section 49.

[0092] Fig. Figure 9 shows a transport element 140, which is essentially the same as the transport element 40 according to Fig. 9. This transport element 140 differs from the previously described transport element 40 in that the ferromagnetic counterpart 143 is constructed in several parts and incorporated into the base body 41. The transport elements 40, 140 are typically made of a plastic. The multi-part ferromagnetic counterpart 143 is incorporated into the base body 41 in such a way that the coupling section 142 itself has a ferromagnetic effect. The coupling section 142 consists of a two-component plastic injection-molded part in which the ferromagnetic counterparts 143 are incorporated in a distributed manner using an injection molding process, as shown. The ferromagnetic counterparts 143 can also be distributed differently from the arrangement shown in the transport element 40, 140.

[0093] The Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 show a conveyor system 100 according to the invention. The conveyor system 100 described here and the components arranged therein are described using the magnetic coupling arrangement 10a according to the Fig. 1. However, the magnetic coupling arrangement 10a in the conveyor system 100 can also be connected to one of the previously described magnetic coupling arrangements 10b to 10e according to the Fig. 2 to Fig. 8 interchangeable.

[0094] The conveyor system 100 for conveying hanging objects comprises a traction means 120, which is designed as a conveyor chain 121 and can be driven by a conveyor drive 150. The conveyor system 100 has a conveyor rail arrangement 122 with a first conveyor rail 123 and a second conveyor rail 124. The first conveyor rail 123 accommodates the conveyor chain 121. The driver elements 11 with the magnet 15 are arranged on the conveyor chain 121 and are held on the conveyor chain 121 by means of the bolts 28. The transport element 40 is mounted on the second conveyor rail 124 by means of the conveyor means 47, extends through the conveyor rail opening 125, and can move therein along the conveyor path. The transport element 40 has an anti-intrusion device 48, which prevents the transport element 40 from fully penetrating a conveyor rail arrangement 122. The transport element 40 is arranged to be movable or pivotable on the conveying means 47.A strong pendulum movement of the transport element 40 could cause the transport element 40 with the load section 49 to completely dip into the conveyor rail opening 125 and become wedged there. This is prevented by the anti-tilt device 48, which is designed as a section on the load section 49 that is wider than the base body 41.

[0095] The conveyor chain 121, together with the carrier element 11, is moved along the conveyor path, with the magnet 15 being magnetically coupled to the ferromagnetic counterpart 43 on the transport element 43 and moving the latter along the conveyor path. The conveyor chain 121 has a carrier element 11 on each conveyor chain link. It is possible for one carrier element 11 to convey one transport element 40, or for one carrier element 11 to convey several transport elements 40. This is ensured by the conveying force that can be adjusted separately for each carrier element 11. The air gap 25 can be adjusted separately for each carrier element, thus varying the conveying force transmitted to the ferromagnetic counterpart 43.

[0096] On the conveyor chain 121, the respective carrier elements 11 can be spaced apart from each other by between 10 mm and 1500 mm. This pitch is also adjustable according to a special embodiment of the invention and may depend on the distance between the conveyor chain links.

[0097] An adjusting device 130 for adjusting a distance X between the traction means 120 and the at least one transport element 40 is provided on the conveyor system 100, whereby the air gap 25 in the magnetic coupling arrangement 10a-d described here can be adjusted.

[0098] An insert—for example, a plastic insert—can serve as the adjusting device 130, which changes the distance X. Alternatively or additionally, the adjusting device 130 comprises a lifting drive, which changes the distance X between the conveyor chain 121 and the transport element 40. This allows the air gap 25 to be adjusted very precisely.

[0099] The magnetic force, which can be adjusted separately for each carrier element 11, is set during magnetization by means of a magnetization device 200, which can be arranged temporarily or permanently on the conveyor system 100.

[0100] The conveyor system 100 described here enables the implementation of a procedure for its construction and maintenance, which comprises the following steps: - Provision of a magnetizing device 200 at the conveyor system 100, - Magnetizing at least one magnet 15 or at least one ferromagnetic counterpart 43 with a magnetic force using the magnetizing device 200 before commissioning the conveyor system 100.

[0101] This allows the magnets 15 and / or the transport elements 40 in the magnetic coupling arrangement 10a to be magnetized individually.

[0102] For example, prior to commissioning, another magnet 15 or another ferromagnetic counterpart 43 is magnetized with a magnetic force using the magnetizing device 200, whereby the respective magnets are magnetized to different strengths as required.

[0103] Fig. Figure 12 shows another conveyor system 300 for transporting hanging objects. This conveyor system 300 is comparable to conveyor system 100 according to the Fig. 11 and Fig. The conveyor system 300 is constructed in 12 and features a conveyor rail arrangement 122 with a first conveyor rail 123 and a second conveyor rail 124. The conveyor system 300 can transport the transport elements 40, 140 according to the Fig. 9 and Fig. Record 10.

[0104] Subsequently, the conveyor system will be equipped with the transport element 140 according to Fig.As described in section 10, the transport element 140 is mounted on the second conveyor rail 124 by means of the conveying means 47 and can move along the conveying path. The conveyor system 300 has a conveying drive and at least one transport element 143. The conveyor system 300 has an electromagnetic levitation system 311 as its traction element. The electromagnetic levitation system 311 is coupled to the ferromagnetic counterpart 143 and transmits the conveying force to the ferromagnetic counterpart 143, enabling it to move along the conveying path.

[0105] In the above embodiments, the invention is illustrated using suspended transport elements. However, it could also be configured in reverse, with the transport elements arranged vertically above the conveyor chain. In this respect, the claims are not to be interpreted restrictively, but also encompass such vertical configurations with a magnetic dome arrangement according to the invention. List of reference symbols 10a-d Magnetic coupling arrangements 11 Drive element 12 recording bodies 13. Admission clip 15 Magnet 17 admission clip 18 Recording room 19 ferromagnetic plate 25 air gap 27 bolts 28 bolts 29 Safety device for 27 or 28 35 more magnets 36 Insulation layer 37 Border area 40 transport element 41 Basic body 42 Coupling section 43 ferromagnetic counterpart 44 Communication section 45 Recognition device 46 Coupling section 47 funding opportunities 48 Intrusion protection 49 Load section 51 Drive element 52 recording bodies 53 admission clip 55 Magnet 57 admission clip 58 Recording Room 59 ferromagnetic plate 100 conveyor system 120 traction devices 121 conveyor chain 122 Conveyor rail arrangement 123 first conveyor rail 124 second conveyor belt 125 conveyor rail opening 130 Actuating device 140 transport element 142 Coupling section 143 ferromagnetic counterpart 151 Driving element 152 receiving bodies 153 Admission clip 155 Magnet 157 Admission clip 158 Recording Room 159 ferromagnetic plate 160 ferromagnetic plate 175 air gap A coupling side of 15 or 15' B Coupling side of 43 or 43' or 143 C opposite side of A C' opposite side of A C'' side away from A X Distance between 120 and 40 or 140 200 Magnetizing device 300 conveyor system 311 electromagnetic levitation system 11' Drive element 12' recording body 13' Recording clip 15' Magnet 17' Recording clip 18' Recording room 19' ferromagnetic plate 25' air gap 27' bolt 28' bolt 29' Safety device for 27 or 28 43' ferromagnetic counterpart 43'' ferromagnetic counterpart 100' conveyor system 120' traction QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] DE 10 2010 010 107 A1

[0002] EP 0 623 497 B1

[0004] DE 20 2017 107 908 U1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) in a conveyor system (100; 100'), which comprises at least one driver element (11; 11'; 151) for arranging on a traction means (120; 120') of the conveyor system (100; 100'), wherein the driver element (11; 11'; 151) has a receiving body (12; 12'; 152) with a receiving space (18; 18'; 58) for receiving a) has at least one magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) in the receiving space (18; 18'; 58), wherein the magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) can be brought into a coupling connection on its coupling side (A) with a coupling side (B) of a ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) for conveying force transmission, or b) at least one ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) for a magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) in the receiving space (18; 18'; 58), wherein the ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) can be brought into a coupling connection on its coupling side (B) with a coupling side (A) of a magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) for conveying force transmission, and wherein a ferromagnetic plate (19; 19'; 59; 159; 160) is arranged on the magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) on at least one side (C; C'; C'') facing away from the coupling side (A) in order to define the path of the magnetic lines of force on this side of the magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) to shorten. [2] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to claim 1, characterized byin that the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) is also a magnet and preferably a ferromagnetic plate (19; 19'; 59; 159; 160) is assigned to each at least one magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) on at least one of its sides (C; C'; C') facing away from the coupling side (A), wherein the magnets (15; 15'; 55; 155) are arranged such that the north poles and south poles face one another, wherein the ferromagnetic plate (19; 19'; 59; 159; 160) is preferably angular on at least one side of the plate. [3] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat an adjustable air gap (25; 25'; 175) extends between the coupling side (A) of the at least one magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) and the coupling side (B) of the at least one ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143), the spatial extent of which air gap in at least one direction is between 0.05 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 0.1 mm and 3 mm. [4] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that the ferromagnetic plate (19; 19'; 59; 159; 160) is arranged to be detachable and / or adjustable relative to the at least one magnet in order to influence the conveying force transmission, and in particular the ferromagnetic plate (19; 19'; 59; 159; 160) is integrally connected to the at least one magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155). [5] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized bythat the or each magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) is provided with at least one further magnet (35; 155), which is also connected - advantageously in a materially bonded manner - to the ferromagnetic plate (19) on at least one side (C; C'; C'') facing away from the coupling side (A). [6] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to claim 5, characterized by that the further magnet (35; 135) is arranged laterally adjacent to the or each magnet (35; 135) and preferably its magnetic poles (NS) are aligned complementarily to the magnetic poles (SN) of the magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155). [7] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to claim 5 or 6 characterized by that an insulating layer is provided between the magnet (15; 15'; 55; 155) and the at least one further magnet (35; 135), wherein the insulating layer is preferably formed by an air gap (36). [8] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the magnets (15; 15'; 55; 155) and the further magnets (35; 135) are cuboid-shaped and are preferably constructed from sintered material. [9] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the receiving body (12; 12'; 152) has at least two receiving clips (13, 17; 13', 17'; 157, 158) which hold at least the ferromagnetic plate (19; 19'; 59; 159; 160) in a form-fitting manner, and in particular the receiving body (12; 12'; 152) is constructed from non-magnetic material - preferably from plastic. [10] Magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the receiving body (12; 12'; 152) has at least one traction means connection (29; 29') for connecting the at least one driver element (11; 11'; 151) to a traction means (120; 120'), which is preferably designed as a bolt (27, 28; 27', 28'). [11] Transport element (40) for a conveyor system (100) with a base body (41) comprising a coupling section (42; 142) and a conveyor section (46), wherein the coupling section (42; 142) is designed for coupling to the conveyor system (100) and has at least one ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) and the conveyor section (46) has conveying means (47) for guiding in the conveyor system (100), wherein the ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) is incorporated into the base body, preferably by means of a forming process, is incorporated into the coupling section (42; 142) or the ferromagnetic counterpart (43; 43'; 43''; 143) is detachably arranged on the coupling section (42; 142) is. [12] Conveyor system (100) for conveying hanging or standing objects comprising a traction means (120; 120'), in particular a conveyor chain (121), and a conveyor drive (150) for driving the traction means (120; 120'), wherein the conveyor system (100) comprises at least one driver element (11; 11'; 151) and at least one transport element (40; 140), between which a magnetic coupling arrangement (10a-e) according to one of claims 1 to 10 is present. [13] Conveyor system (100) according to claim 12 characterized bythat an adjusting device (130) for setting a distance (X) between the traction means (120; 120') and the at least one transport element (40; 140) is provided and preferably the conveyor system (100) has a further driver element (11; 11'; 151), wherein the further driver element (11; 11'; 151) is spaced apart from the first driver element (11; 11'; 151) along the traction means (120; 120') and the distance is adjustable, preferably between 10 mm and 1500 mm, in particular between 15 mm and 250 mm, along the traction means (120; 120').

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