Transport equipment

Abstract

Transport device for transporting unit loads (2), in particular empty containers that are critical to transport and orientation, wherein the transport device (8) comprises a layer conveyor (9) and at least one front-mounted row conveyor (12, 13) with intersecting conveying directions (11, 14), wherein the layer conveyor (9) is designed for conveying a multi-row layer of unit loads (3) and the at least one row conveyor (12, 13) is designed for conveying a single row of unit loads (5, 5'), characterized in that the layer conveyor (9) and the at least one row conveyor (12, 13) each have a conveying level (10, 14, 15) on which the unit loads (2) move while standing, wherein the conveying levels (10, 14, 15) are arranged one above the other with a level difference (h) which is greater than the height (sh) of the unit loads (2). - wherein the transport device (8) comprises a transfer device (17) which connects the spaced conveying levels (10,14,15) and which is designed to transfer a single batch of individual items (5,5') between the conveying levels (10,14,15), - wherein the transfer device (17) comprises at least one upright drop shaft (18,19) extending transversely to a conveying direction (11) of the layer conveyor (9) and at least one controlled movable upper shaft cover (20,21) which temporarily opens and closes the upper end of the at least one drop shaft (18,19), - wherein the at least one shaft cover (20,21) in the closed position supports a single row of general cargo (5,5') and in the open position allows the received row of general cargo (5,5') to fall into the at least one drop shaft (18,19) and onto the lower conveying level (10,14).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a transport device, a treatment plant and a transport method for unit loads, in particular empty containers that are critical to transport and orientation, with the features in the preamble of the independent claims.

[0002] Such a transport device is known from WO 2021 / 191291 A1. It is used for transporting empty containers, particularly bottles, which are sensitive to orientation and transport and have a tendency to tip over during transport. The transport device comprises a layer conveyor for conveying a multi-row layer of individual items and a front-mounted inline conveyor for conveying a single row of individual items. The layer conveyor operates intermittently, pushing the front row of items onto the adjacent inline conveyor. On the inline conveyor, a stop forms a single row of individual items, which is then conveyed away.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to demonstrate an improved and, in particular, more efficient transport technology.

[0004] The invention solves this problem with the features in the independent claims.

[0005] The transport technology used, i.e. the transport equipment, the treatment plant equipped with it, and the transport method, have various advantages.

[0006] The claimed transport technology comprises a layer conveyor and at least one inline conveyor arranged upstream of the layer conveyor, the two inline conveyors having intersecting conveying directions. The layer conveyor is designed to convey a multi-row layer of unit loads, and the at least one inline conveyor is designed to convey a single row of unit loads. The inline conveyor can be present singly or in multiples. The claimed transport technology further comprises a programmable controller that controls the components of the transport technology, in particular the transport device, and their functions.

[0007] The layer conveyor and the at least one row conveyor each have a conveying level on which the unit loads move upright. The conveying levels are arranged one above the other with a vertical spacing (h) that is greater than the height (sh) of the unit loads. The transport system includes a transfer device that connects the spaced conveying levels and is designed to transfer a single row of unit loads between the conveying levels and the conveyors. The transfer device comprises at least one upright, preferably vertical, drop chute extending transversely to one conveying direction of the layer conveyor, and at least one controlled movable upper chute cover that temporarily opens and closes the upper end of the at least one drop chute.The at least one shaft cover, in its closed position, supports a single row of individual items and allows the collected and separated row to fall into the at least one drop shaft and onto the lower conveying level. This can occur by gravity. The falling motion can be perpendicular to the conveying direction of the layer conveyor and preferably vertically downwards.

[0008] The transport technology employed has the advantage that the conveying movement of the layer conveyor and the at least one row conveyor can be decoupled from each other. Furthermore, the opening and closing of the chute cover, as well as the falling movement of the individual row of items, can occur very quickly. Removing the individual row of items from the layer conveyor and the item layer takes less time than with the previously mentioned prior art. In the latter, the individual row of items must first be moved and removed along the front of the layer conveyor before the next row of items from the front of the item layer can be pushed onto the emptied row conveyor.

[0009] The claimed transport technology is suitable both for forming and removing individual rows of individual items from a layer of individual items, and conversely, for forming a layer of individual items from several individual rows of individual items. The claimed transport technology also allows a combination of both functions: row formation and layer formation. The claimed transport technology has the advantage of universal applicability. The transport device can function as a row arrangement, a layer arrangement, or a combination of both.

[0010] The decoupling of layer and row conveying achievable with the transport technology used, as well as the rapid downward movement, provide the basis for efficiency and performance improvements. Furthermore, the conveying movement of the layer conveyor and the conveying movement of at least one row conveyor can overlap in time.

[0011] In an advantageous embodiment, the transport device and the transport process are controlled such that the single row of individual items that has fallen into the drop chute is conveyed away, while a new single row of individual items is picked up onto the chute cover via the drop chute. The downtime or conveying pauses of the layer conveyor and the at least one row conveyor can be reduced.

[0012] The aforementioned control system for the claimed transport technology can be advantageously used for both row and layer formation. The claimed transport technology can comprise one or more, in particular two, row conveyors. In an optional combination of row and layer formation, several, in particular two, row conveyors can be used at different heights relative to the conveying level of the layer conveyor. For pure row formation, at least one row conveyor located below the aforementioned conveying level is sufficient. For pure layer formation, at least one row conveyor located above the aforementioned conveying level is sufficient.

[0013] The isolated row of individual items can preferably be a single row, which is particularly advantageous for process stability. Alternatively, a double row or possibly another multiple row of individual items is possible. In the isolated row of individual items, the items are preferably arranged in a straight line. The item layer preferably has rows of items in a strictly regular matrix arrangement. Alternatively, nesting and a small lateral offset of the items within the respective row are also possible.

[0014] The individual row of individual items is taken from the item layer during row formation and placed into the item layer during layer formation. The length of the individual row of individual items can be determined by the format of the item layer, in particular the layer width perpendicular to the layer conveying direction.

[0015] The claimed transport technology is suitable for any type of unit load. It offers particular advantages for unit loads that are critical in terms of transport and orientation, for example, because they can easily tip over during transport and / or change their orientation during transport and / or stacking. Such unit loads can be, for example, empty containers, especially empty and lightweight plastic bottles. The unit loads can also have an asymmetrical shape that requires a specific orientation to be defined and maintained during transport. These can be, for example, bottles with an eccentrically positioned filling opening that should have and retain a defined position during transport and stacking and / or stacking, for example, to be automatically filled in a filling plant. The unit loads can also have a different design than the preferred empty containers, especially bottles, that are critical in terms of transport and orientation.

[0016] The transport equipment and transport method used can be designed in different ways.

[0017] In a first embodiment, the conveying level of the at least one row conveyor and the associated vertical drop chute can be arranged below the conveying level of the layer conveyor. The at least one vertical lower drop chute is located at the front, adjacent to the layer conveyor, with its controlled, movable upper chute cover positioned at the same height as the conveying level of the layer conveyor. Such a conveying system is particularly suitable for forming rows from a single layer of individual items.

[0018] The layer conveyor can be designed to form the individual row of individual items from a front-facing row of items in the item layer and position it on the chute cover above the drop chute. This can also be done in different ways. In the various configurations, the transport device and the transport process can be controlled such that the dropped individual row of items is conveyed by the associated row conveyor at the lower conveying level, while a new individual row of items is formed and positioned from the item layer above the drop chute.

[0019] In a first variant, the upper cover of the lower drop chute can be arranged separately from the layer conveyor and be independently controlled and movable, with its closed position connecting to the edge of the layer conveyor. The upper cover can, for example, be designed as a controlled, movable sliding plate. In this configuration, the layer conveyor can convey a front row of individual items from the layer onto the closed upper cover of the drop chute, thereby forming the aforementioned single row of individual items.

[0020] In another variant, the upper cover of the lower drop chute can be designed as a plate-like part of the layer conveyor, moving along with the load and positioned at the front in the conveying direction of the load layer. The layer conveyor can form the individual load rows by positioning the front load row of the load layer on the upper cover above the drop chute and then removing the upper cover from beneath the front load row. This releases the load row from its supporting position, allowing it to fall into the drop chute. The remaining load layer can continue to be supported on its underside by the layer conveyor. When the upper cover formed by the plate-like part is removed, the remaining load layer can be retained. This is particularly advantageous if the cover or plate-like part is removed by pulling it back from beneath the front load row.Alternatively, the removal can also be done in other ways, e.g. by swiveling.

[0021] In the various aforementioned configurations, the transfer device can include a preferably adjustable counter-support for the individual row of items. This counter-support can be located on the far edge of the associated lower drop chute and opposite the layer conveyor. The counter-support can be positioned vertically, particularly above, the conveying level of the layer conveyor. The counter-support can form a defined stop for the front row of items in the item layer and can position them precisely above the drop chute. This is advantageous for ensuring the smooth descent of the individual item row into the drop chute. The counter-support can be adjustable, allowing it to adapt to different formats, particularly widths and thicknesses, of items. The transport system can therefore be flexible and suitable for a wide variety of item formats.Performance is not affected as a result.

[0022] In the aforementioned configurations and variations, the bottom of the lower drop shaft can form the conveying level of the associated lower inline conveyor for the picked-up individual row of items. Various design options exist for this, with the bottom of the shaft, for example, serving as a sliding surface or as the moving conveying surface of the associated lower inline conveyor, which may be positioned laterally. Furthermore, the lower inline conveyor can be designed in different ways and convey the picked-up and dropped row of items in various manner.

[0023] The aforementioned training is advantageous for the function of the transport technology used to form and remove individual rows of general cargo from the general cargo area.

[0024] In another embodiment, the conveying level of the at least one inline conveyor and the associated upright drop chute can be arranged above the conveying level of the layer conveyor. The upper upright drop chute can be located at the front connection to the layer conveyor. It can be situated in front of the front end of the layer conveyor. Alternatively, it can be positioned in projection above the front end of the layer conveyor. In both cases, the controlled movable upper chute cover of the upper drop chute can be located at the same height as the conveying level of the inline conveyor.

[0025] The inline conveyor located above the layer conveyor can form the singulated row of individual items from a stream of individual items and position it above the upper drop chute. This can be done on the closed upper chute cover. The inline conveyor can include grouping devices for forming a singulated row of individual items from the incoming stream of individual items. The singulated row of individual items is formed by a defined group of items arranged one behind the other.

[0026] In this configuration, the transfer device can be controlled such that the dropped, singulated row of individual items is picked up by the layer conveyor and, if necessary, conveyed away, while a new singulated row of items is formed and positioned on the closed upper chute cover above the drop chute. The upper chute cover of the upper drop chute can advantageously be designed as a controlled, movable sliding plate. It can be removed to open the drop chute beneath the singulated or grouped row of items by pulling it away, folding it aside, or in some other way, thus allowing the said row of items to fall.

[0027] The shaft floor of the upper drop shaft can be located at the same elevation as the conveying level of the layer conveyor. The shaft floor can be separate from the layer conveyor and positioned in front of it. It can be formed, for example, by a stationary or, preferably, a controlled movable slide plate. The shaft floor can also be located at the front end of the layer conveyor in the aforementioned manner.

[0028] The transfer device can include a controlled, movable transfer element with a drive. This element can transfer a row of individual items located on the bottom of the upper drop shaft onto the layer conveyor, where it can either form a new layer of items or connect the transferred row to the rear of an existing layer. Such a configuration is useful, for example, when the bottom of the shaft is separately designed and located at the front of the storage conveyor. If the bottom of the shaft is located at the front end of the layer conveyor, the transfer device can be omitted. In this case, the layer conveyor itself can convey the picked-up and dropped row of individual items. Upon falling, this row of individual items can also directly form the first row of a new layer or the rear or last row of an existing layer.

[0029] The claimed transport technology can comprise either a lower drop chute for row formation or a single upper drop chute for layer formation. Alternatively, the transport technology can also include a drop chute located below and above the transport level of the layer conveyor, along with an upper chute cover. The transport technology can then be used selectively for either row formation or layer formation. In such a combined configuration, it is advantageous if the bottom of the upper drop chute simultaneously forms the upper chute cover of the lower drop chute. The chute cover is, for example, located at the front of the loading conveyor.

[0030] In such a combined design, it is also advantageous if the multiple, especially two, drop shafts are arranged one above the other and preferably in a straight line. Furthermore, the multiple, especially two, in-line conveyors can also be arranged one above the other. They can be aligned vertically. However, other design options are also possible.

[0031] In the various aforementioned design options, the width and, if necessary, the length of at least one drop shaft can be adapted to the individual row of individual items.

[0032] The at least one drop chute can include lateral chute walls that extend along and guide the row of individual items. A lateral chute wall can be formed by a guide rail and / or a conveyor belt. The at least one drop chute can be adjustable in height and / or width transversely to the row of individual items. This allows it to be adapted to different item sizes. For width adjustment, the chute walls, the guide rail, and / or the conveyor belt can be designed and positioned to be adjustable. For height adjustment, the chute floor or the conveying level of the conveyor belt can be adjusted.

[0033] In a row conveyor located above the layer conveyor, a row guide can be arranged, for example, in the area of ​​the upper shaft cover. This guide can be fixed or adjustable. The row conveyor can include a conveying unit positioned in the conveying direction in front of the aforementioned upper shaft cover and in front of the row guide. This row conveyor, and in particular its conveying unit, can push a row of individual items onto the upper shaft cover and into the row guide on both sides. This can be the front end of a line of individual items. The grouping or singulation of the line of items can be achieved by grouping devices, such as laterally inserted stoppers. In another variant, such an upper row conveyor can also be arranged on the upper shaft cover of the upper drop shaft and can also form part of the row guide. Width adjustment is also possible here.

[0034] A drop chute located above the conveying level of the layer conveyor can have different types and arrangements of chute walls. The chute wall facing the layer conveyor can be temporarily removable, e.g., height-adjustable. It can also be omitted entirely. The rear or last row of a layer of individual items can guide the falling row of items and can replace the chute wall. On the other side of the chute, the chute wall, or part of it, can be formed by the aforementioned transfer element. Its mobility allows the chute width to be adjusted to accommodate different item sizes.

[0035] At least one drop chute, particularly the one located below the layer conveyor, may include an inclined deflector. This deflector can serve to align any tipped-over items into an upright position during their descent.

[0036] At least one of the row conveyors can be moved in a timed manner in its conveying direction. The layer conveyor can be moved continuously or in a timed manner in its respective conveying direction. In particular, it can be reversible. This is advantageous to enable both row and layer formation.

[0037] The layer conveyor can comprise a movable and controlled-driven conveying element as well as a guide device for the layer of goods being carried. The conveying element can, for example, be designed as a conveyor belt that moves continuously in one conveying direction. The conveying element can also be reversibly movable and have opposite conveying directions, for example, for row and layer formation. The conveying element can be moved by a drive. In the second variant, the front section of the conveying plate, which oscillates in the conveying direction, can also form the upper cover of the drop chute located below the layer conveyor.

[0038] The guiding device ensures a stable, tip-proof position and orientation of the individual items, both when stationary and during conveying. The guiding device can include lateral guides, such as side rails, as well as a rear guide for the items, positioned at the rear in the conveying direction and preferably moving with the item. The rear guide can also act as a retainer for the items when the conveyor plate of a layer conveyor is removed.

[0039] There are also various design options for the at least one inline conveyor. It can include at least one conveying device with a controllable drive and at least one guide element. This guide element can be designed to hold and guide a single row of individual items, preferably at the front and rear, during its conveying movement. Such a guide element can also form an end-face boundary of the drop chute and can thereby guide the falling single row of items.

[0040] The at least one inline conveyor can have at least two guide elements, each designed as a guide paddle and configured to positively engage and guide the individual row of pieces at its front and rear ends. The guide paddles can be spaced apart. This allows them to be positioned against the front of the individual row of pieces picked up at the conveying level of the inline conveyor and, if necessary, to clamp the pieces between them. The guide elements have the advantage of guiding and holding the picked-up individual row of pieces during conveying, at least for part of the way.

[0041] This prevents transport-critical individual items from falling over.

[0042] The transport system can include a connecting conveyor that links to at least one inline conveyor on the infeed and / or outfeed side. For example, the connecting conveyor can be used to further transport individual batches of individual items during batch processing. Conversely, a connecting conveyor can also be used to feed a batch of individual items to, for example, an upper inline conveyor.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment, the transport device with its layer conveyor can be connected to a device for feeding and / or removing layers of individual items. This can be, for example, a palletizer that stacks and / or unstacks the layers of individual items removed or fed by the layer conveyor. The term palletizer also includes a depalletizer.

[0044] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the palletizer can be configured as a stacking device that receives or releases layers of individual items at a loading point associated with the layer conveyor, each layer being placed in a downward-facing, open-ended container, and forming or breaking down stacks of containers. For example, at a stacking point located away from the loading point, the stacking device can successively build up or break down a filled stack of containers, each consisting of open-ended containers holding a layer of individual items. The stacking device can also be configured to successively build up or break down a buffer stack of empty open-ended containers at the aforementioned loading point, thereby repositioning the open-ended containers between the existing stacks.

[0045] In another variant, a stacking device can also accommodate layers of general cargo in other containers, e.g. box-like containers open at the top, in a different way, whereby the handling device for filling and emptying the containers as well as for storing and retrieving the layers of general cargo is adapted accordingly.

[0046] The transport system can also be connected to a unit load generator and / or a unit load handler via its at least one inline conveyor. A unit load generator can be, for example, a blow molding machine for plastic bottles, a feeder for otherwise manufactured unit loads, or configured in some other way. A unit load handler can be, for example, a filling device for filling empty bottles or other containers, a cleaning device, a labeling device, or configured in some other way.

[0047] The claimed transport device and transport method can be part of a handling system for unit loads, in particular for empty containers that are critical to transport and orientation. The handling system can also include at least one of said palletizers, in particular a stacking device of the type described above for slip-on containers.

[0048] The processing plant may also include a storage area capable of holding filled pallets or stacks of filled containers containing individual items, as well as buffer or empty container stacks. The filled container stacks can be formed from the aforementioned open-bottomed, hinged containers. The buffer container stacks can be created from the aforementioned empty hinged containers.

[0049] Further advantageous embodiments of the transport technology are specified in the dependent claims.

[0050] The features specified for the claimed transport device and the treatment plant can also be features of the claimed transport method and the treatment method, and vice versa.

[0051] The invention is illustrated in the drawings in an exemplary and schematic manner. Specifically, the drawings show: Fig. 1: A schematic and abbreviated top view of a handling plant for general cargo, Fig. 2: A truncated top view of a transport system for general cargo with an attached palletizer, Fig. 3: a general cargo in the form of an empty container in perspective and top view, Fig. 4: A truncated side view of an embodiment of the transport device and its transfer device for a series formation, Fig. 5: a top view of the arrangement of Fig. 4, Fig. 6: the arrangement of Fig. 4 in a subsequent operating position and with a modified shaft wall, Fig. 7: a top view of the arrangement of Fig. 6, Fig. 8: a side view showing the next operating position of the arrangement of Fig. 4 and Fig. 6, Fig. 9: a top view of the arrangement of Fig. 8, Fig. 10: A variant of the transport device and its transfer device in a truncated side view, Fig. 11: a top view of the arrangement of Fig. 10, Fig. 12: the arrangement of Fig. 10 in a subsequent operating position, Fig. 13: a top view of the arrangement of Fig. 12, Fig. 14: the arrangement of Fig. 10 and Fig. 12 in a further subsequent operating position, Fig. 15: a top view of Fig. 14, Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. 18: Another variant of the transport device and its transfer device in side view and in various operating positions, Fig. 19: a variant of the arrangement of Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. 18 in a top view with an attached palletizer, Fig. 20: a broken side view of the arrangement of Fig. 19 according to arrow XX, Fig. 21: a modification of the transport device and its transfer device compared to Fig. 4-9, Fig. 22: a variant of the transport device and its transfer device of Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. 18, Fig. 23: a truncated, enlarged detail version of the treatment plant of Fig. 1, Fig. 24: a perspective view of the palletizer from Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 19 and Fig. 23 and Fig. 25: Another perspective view of the palletizer from Fig. 24.

[0052] The invention relates to a transport device (8) and a transport method for transporting unit loads (2). The invention also relates to a treatment plant (1) and a treatment method for said unit loads (2) comprising a transport device (8) and a transport method.

[0053] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic and abbreviated top view of a plant (1) for handling unit loads (2). The plant (1) comprises several transport devices (8) for transporting unit loads (2) and several other plant components (48, 49, 50, 51) as well as a control system not shown.

[0054] The general cargo (2) can be, for example, empty containers that are critical for transport and orientation, such as those found in Fig. 3 are shown. The general cargo (2) can alternatively have a different configuration. The general cargo (2) is grouped into multi-row general cargo layers (3), which are exemplified in Fig. 2 are shown. On the other hand, the general cargo (2) forms isolated general cargo rows (5,5'). These can be separated from the general cargo layer (3) during singulation.

[0055] The in Fig. 3. Transport- and orientation-critical general cargo (2) shown is, for example, an empty and lightweight plastic container, in particular an empty plastic bottle. It can tend to tip over during transport and if not properly guided. Furthermore, the general cargo (2), especially the container, can have a specific orientation. This can be, for example, a predetermined or desired orientation within a row of general cargo in general cargo position (3) and / or in a separate row of general cargo (5, 5'), for example, during their transport in the row direction.

[0056] The package (2) has, for example, a body (7) with an upper and off-center filling opening (7'). The body (7) has, for example, an asymmetrical basic shape in plan view. It is arranged, for example, in the package position (3) and in the package rows with a predetermined and consistent orientation. The filling opening (7') should, for example, always be located on the left in plan view. Fig. 2 and in other drawings the package (2), in particular the container, is shown in a simplified form.

[0057] The load layers (3) comprise several rows of loads arranged one behind the other in a conveying direction (11) of the load layers (3). They preferably form a regular, strict matrix of rows and columns in which the loads (2) are arranged in alignment in the row and column directions. Alternatively, a nesting arrangement (not shown) is possible in which adjacent rows of loads are offset from each other or arranged with gaps.

[0058] In the unit load rows, the unit loads (2) are arranged one behind the other in the direction of the row and are preferably aligned. They are closely adjacent and may be in contact. The unit load layer (3) has a unit load row (4) at its front when viewed in the direction of conveyance (11).

[0059] The aforementioned additional plant components can, for example, include a unit load generator (48), in particular a blow molding unit for empty plastic containers. Another plant component (49) can be designed as a unit load handling unit, for example, as a filling unit for unit loads (2) in the form of empty containers or bottles. Another plant component (51) can be provided for the feeding and removal of layers of unit loads (3). It can, for example, be designed as a palletizer. Another plant component (50) can be designed as a storage unit, for example, for pallet stacks or filled pallets, or for fully or partially filled container stacks (61) consisting of containers (59) with layers of unit loads (3) contained therein, or for empty container stacks (62).

[0060] The transport device (8) described in more detail below can be present in multiple locations. Each can be configured according to Fig. 2. The transport device (8) comprises a layer conveyor (9) for one or more layers of unit loads (3), as well as at least one row conveyor (12, 13) and a transfer device (17) for each individual row of unit loads (5, 5'). The transport device (8) can be connected to the aforementioned plant component (51), in particular a palletizer, via the layer conveyor (9). The transport device (8) further comprises a control system (not shown) and preferably programmable for its components and functions. This can be a separate control system or a control system implemented in the plant control system.

[0061] There are various embodiments of the design and function of the transport device (8). On the one hand, the transport device (8) can be configured and function as a series feeder, which dismantles a layer of individual items (3) and forms individual rows (5) of individual items, transporting these row by row. On the other hand, the transport device (8) can be configured and function as a layer feeder, successively building up a layer of individual items (3) from incoming individual rows (5') of individual items and transporting these. Furthermore, the transport device (8) can have a combined configuration and function as both a series and layer feeder. It can be operated selectively with either the series formation or the layer formation function.

[0062] Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of a transport device (8) and its components in their design and function as a series of images. Fig. Figure 4 is an example and abbreviated side view of the transport device (8).

[0063] The layer conveyor (9) is designed to convey a layer of unit loads (3) in a conveying direction (11) that may be reversible if necessary, and comprises a movable and controlled conveying element (36). In the exemplary embodiment, this is Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 to Fig. 7 e.g. designed as a continuously movable one-piece or multi-piece conveyor belt (37), which with its upper run and the layer of goods (3) located on it moves in the conveying direction (11) shown towards the front of the layer conveyor (9) and the row conveyor (12).

[0064] The layer conveyor (9) also includes a guide device (33) for the received layer of goods (3). The guide device (33) can, for example, include a left and right lateral guide (34), possibly stationary, extending in the conveying direction (11), such as a railing. Furthermore, the guide device (33) can have a rear guide (35) that runs transversely to the conveying direction (11) and is arranged on the rear side of the layer of goods (3). The rear guide (35) can move along with the conveying movement of the layer of goods (3). It can, for example, support and guide the layer of goods (3) from the rear.

[0065] The single inline conveyor (12) shown is designed to convey a single row of individual items (5). It is arranged at the front of the layer conveyor (9) and extends transversely to it. The layer conveyor (9) and the inline conveyor (12) have intersecting conveying directions (11, 14).

[0066] The layer conveyor (9) and the row conveyor (12) each have a conveying level (10, 14) on which the unit loads (2) move. The conveying levels (10, 14) are stacked one above the other with a Fig. The level spacing (h) shown in Figure 4 is arranged. The level spacing (h) is greater than the height (sh) of the unit loads (2). In the layer conveyor (9), the conveying level (10) is located on the top of the conveying element (36). The conveying level (14) of the row conveyor (12) is located below the conveying level (10) of the layer conveyor (9). Depending on the design of the row conveyor (12), the conveying level (14) may be formed by a movable part of the row conveyor (12, 13) itself or by an associated additional part.

[0067] The transfer device (17) in question has at least one upright, preferably vertically oriented, drop chute (18). This extends transversely to the conveying direction (11) of the layer conveyor (9). The drop chute (18) extends along the conveying direction (16) of the row conveyor (12). The row conveyor (12) is arranged at or within the drop chute (18).

[0068] The transfer device (17) further comprises a controlled movable upper shaft cover (20), which temporarily opens and closes the upper end of the drop shaft (18). In its closed position, the shaft cover (20) receives, for example, a single row of individual items (5) on its upper surface and, in its open position, allows them to fall into the drop shaft (18) and onto the lower conveying level (14). The transport device (8) is controlled such that the fallen single row of items (5) is conveyed away, while a new single row of items (5) is picked up on the shaft cover (20) above the drop shaft (18).

[0069] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 4 to 9, the drop chute (18) is arranged at the front, upstream of the layer conveyor (9). Its controlled, movable upper chute cover (20) is arranged at the same height as the conveying level (10) of the layer conveyor (9), e.g., flush with the surface. In this embodiment, the transport device (8) functions as a conveyor. The layer conveyor (9) forms the separated row of individual items (5) from a front row of items (4) of the layer (3) and positions it on the chute cover (20) above the drop chute (18). The conveying element (36), in particular the conveyor belt (37), pushes the front row of items (4) onto the closed chute cover (20). Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows this operating position in side view and top view.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper cover (20) of the lower drop chute (18) is arranged separately from the layer conveyor (9). It is independently movable. For example, it is designed as a controlled movable slide plate (22) which is slidably mounted in a machine frame (8') opposite the front end of the layer conveyor (9) at a distance. The upper cover (20) extends parallel to the conveying level (10) and to the upper run of the conveyor belt (37). In its closed position, the upper cover (20) abuts the edge of the layer conveyor (9). This allows the front row of items (4) to be pushed onto the upper cover (20) with minimal resistance and positioned above the lower drop chute (18).

[0071] A controlled, adjustable counter-support (30) can act as a stop for the front row of individual items (4) and their desired position. The counter-support (30) is located on the far edge of the lower drop chute (18) on the machine frame (8'), opposite the layer conveyor (9). The counter-support (30) is positioned at a height, specifically above, the conveying level (10). The counter-support (30) can be moved back and forth in the conveying direction (11) above the drop chute (18).

[0072] How Fig. 4 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 5, the front row of individual items (4) on the upper shaft cover (20) forms the isolated row of individual items (5). The next row of individual items in the item layer (3), opposite to the conveying direction (11), is still on the layer conveyor (9) and is supported by it.

[0073] The counterholder (30) can have a holding function and / or positioning function for the front-facing row of individual items (4) and the resulting single-item row of individual items (5). It can be configured according to Fig. 4 remain at the far edge of the lower drop chute (18) and may extend slightly beyond it. The counter-support (30) can form a stop for positioning the advanced and separated row of items (5) above the drop chute (18) and can hold the separated row of items (5) when the chute cover (20) is retracted. The counter-support (30) can also be advanced to the front row of items (4) and brought into contact there, whereby it can be advanced as the item is pushed into the chute (18). Fig. The stop and positioning position shown in Figure 4 recedes. In another embodiment, the counter-holder (30) can also be stationary and rigidly arranged. Furthermore, a controllable row holder (not shown) can be provided, which, when the front row of items (4) is pushed over and singulated onto the shaft cover (20), holds the next row of items in the item position (3) and keeps it on the conveying element (36), in particular the conveyor belt (37).

[0074] Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows the open position of the shaft cover (20) with the slide plate (22) retracted, for example, linearly. The single row of individual items (5), shown with dashed lines, falls downwards by gravity to the lower conveying level (14) of the lower row conveyor (12) and can then be conveyed away from it.

[0075] The transport device (8), in particular the transfer device (17), is controlled such that the dropped single unit row (5) is removed by the associated lower row conveyor (12) and, at the same time, a new single unit row (5) is formed and positioned from the unit layer (3) above the drop chute (18). Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 illustrates that the upper shaft cover (20) is extended again and closes the upper shaft opening of the drop shaft (18).

[0076] The layer conveyor (9) can push the next front row of items (4) onto the closed upper shaft cover (20) and against the optionally spaced counter support (30), which acts as a stop. The counter support (30) can also be advanced and brought into contact with the next front row of items (4) and then retract with the row feed. Meanwhile, the lower row conveyor (12) has sufficient time to transport the fallen row of items (5) away in its conveying direction (16). Fig. Figure 9 illustrates the situation from above.

[0077] Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. Figure 15 illustrates a second variant of the transport device (8) in the form and function of a series diagram. In this variant, the upper shaft cover (20) is designed as a moving, front-facing, plate-like part of the layer conveyor (9).

[0078] The shaft cover (20) can be moved in a reversing or oscillating direction in the conveying direction (11). In this variant, the conveying element (36) of the layer conveyor (9) has an oscillating conveying plate (38) and a trailing retainer (39). The retainer (39) is designed to hold the layer of components (3) in the rearward position during a retraction movement of the conveying plate (38). The front area of ​​the conveying plate (38) forms the upper shaft cover (20) of the lower drop shaft (18).

[0079] How Fig. 10 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 11, all or at least part of the load layer (3) is located on the conveyor plate (38). The front part of the conveyor plate (38), with the front load row (4), is moved over the lower drop chute (18), thereby forming the aforementioned upper chute cover (20). The front load row (4) can be brought into contact and stopped by the optionally adjustable counter-support (30). The retainer (39) at the rear of the load layer (3) is moved along with it. The front load row (4) is positioned above the drop chute (18) and forms the separated load row (5).

[0080] In the next step, according to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 The conveyor plate (38) is retracted, with its front portion, which also serves as a shaft cover (20), being retracted beneath the isolated row of pieces (5). With the shaft cover (20) open, the isolated row of pieces (5) is no longer supported and falls downwards into the drop chute (18) and onto the lower conveying level (14). During the retraction of the conveyor plate (38), the retainer (39) remains stationary and supports the remaining layer of pieces (3) from behind against the retraction of the conveyor plate (38). The layer of pieces (3) remains in its position, with its front row of pieces (4) then resting on the front portion of the conveyor plate (38), which also serves as a shaft cover (20).

[0081] The lower row conveyor (12) and the drop chute (18) can be configured as in the first embodiment. The row conveyor (12) conveys the dropped row of items (5) in the conveying direction (16), while the conveyor plate (38) is pushed again over the upper opening of the lower drop chute (18), thereby positioning the next front row of items (4) above the drop chute (18). The retainer (39) is moved along with it. Fig. 14 and Fig. Figure 15 shows this interim position.

[0082] In the aforementioned embodiments, the shaft floor (23) of the lower drop shaft (18) forms the conveying level (14) of the associated lower inline conveyor (12). The shaft floor (23) is, for example, designed as a sliding surface.

[0083] The lower drop shaft (18) has lateral upright shaft walls (25, 26) that extend along and guide the dropped row of general cargo (5). The shaft walls (25, 26) can be designed in different ways.

[0084] How Fig. 4 and Fig. As illustrated in Figure 5, for example, a shaft wall (25) can be designed as a stationary guide rail (27). Its upper surface can connect to the front edge of the layer conveyor (9). This can also be the case with the second variant with the oscillating conveyor plate (38), where the shaft wall (25) connects to the front end of the plate in its retracted position.

[0085] The other shaft wall (26) can also be formed by a guide rail. It can be configured in the embodiments of Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. 15 can also be formed by the series conveyor (12).

[0086] The inline conveyor (12) is designed, for example, as a circulating belt conveyor with upright deflection axes and a controlled drive (42) as well as a circulating conveyor belt, in which one belt section can form the side wall (26) of the shaft. The inline conveyor (12) is arranged laterally next to the lower drop shaft (18) and at least partially above the lower shaft floor (23).

[0087] Fig. Figure 21 shows a variant in which the lower row conveyor (12), designed, for example, as a belt conveyor with horizontal deflection axes, forms the shaft floor (23) and the lower conveying level (14) with its upper run.

[0088] The row conveyor (12) of Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. The conveyor belt (15) can have one or more, e.g., two, laterally projecting conveying elements (44, 45). These conveying elements (44, 45) can engage positively behind the last unit (2) in the conveying direction (16) and preferably also positively in front of the first unit (2) in the unit row (5) in the conveying direction (16). The conveying elements (44, 45) can, for example, project laterally from the conveyor belt and extend above the shaft floor (23). They can have a rib- or plate-like shape and an upright orientation. They can, for example, be designed as paddles (46).

[0089] The rib- or plate-like conveying elements (44, 45), in particular the paddles (46), can also serve a guiding function for the individual row of individual items (5) falling in the lower drop shaft (18). They can close off the drop shaft (18) at the front and rear.

[0090] The conveying elements (44, 45) can be arranged at a predetermined and fixed distance along the row conveyor (12). However, their distance can also be variable and controlled.

[0091] The conveying means (44,45) can be present multiple times on, for example, a circulating series conveyor (12) and can be positioned appropriately at the drop shaft (18) by its circulating movement.

[0092] In another embodiment, it is possible to move the conveying means (44, 45) separately in and against the conveying direction (16). The conveying means (44, 45) can thus be positioned at the front and rear against the dropped row of individual items (5) and brought into contact. For this purpose, the row conveyor (12) can be designed differently.

[0093] Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the inline conveyor (12) with two conveyor units (40, 41) arranged one above the other with upright deflection axes, including drives (42, 43), each of which is independently controlled and movable, and each of which has at least one conveying element (44, 45). The dropped, singulated row of individual items (5) can be particularly well picked up and clamped between the independently movable conveying elements (44, 45). The conveyor units (40, 41) can perform a circulating and / or a reversing movement along the conveying direction (16) with the conveying elements (44, 45).

[0094] During conveying in the conveying direction (16), the separated row of units (5) is guided by the conveying means (44, 45) until the units (2) are stable in their conveying movement. Lateral row guidance may also be provided. The conveyed separated row of units (5) can then be connected to a connecting conveyor (47) according to Fig. 2. The row conveyor (12) and its conveying means (44, 45) can then be moved back to their starting position to receive the next falling row of unit loads (5).

[0095] The connecting conveyor (47) can in turn be a series conveyor. The connecting conveyor (47) can also include a lift conveyor or the like, in which the individual row of unit loads (5) can be clamped and moved vertically upwards or downwards. Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 23 shows such an embodiment. The connecting conveyor (47) can transport the separated and successive rows of individual items (5) to said system component (49), e.g. a filling device.

[0096] The design of the inline conveyor (12) as a circulating conveyor, in particular a belt conveyor, is advantageous in order to quickly return to the drop chute (18) after the conveyed row of individual items (5) has been discharged, ready to receive the next dropped row of individual items (5). The in Fig. The variant shown in Figure 21 of a series conveyor (12) arranged below the drop shaft (18) can be designed in a similar manner.

[0097] Alternatively, the at least one inline conveyor (12, 13) can be designed differently. For example, it can have one or more reversibly movable linear conveyors, e.g., cylinders, and one or more conveying elements (44, 45) arranged thereon. The conveying elements (44, 45) can alternatively be pivoted or otherwise movable on the inline conveyor (12) in order to be moved into the conveying and guiding position at the singulated row of individual items (5) as needed, or to be moved away from it for a return movement.

[0098] The drop chute (18) can be designed to be adjustable in height and / or width transversely to the individual row of individual items (5). This allows it to be adapted to different item formats.

[0099] Height adjustment is possible, for example, by raising and / or lowering the shaft floor (23) and, if necessary, the row conveyor (12).

[0100] For width adjustment, the counter support (30), which is adjustable by a cylinder or another controlled feed drive, can be positioned accordingly to adapt to different unit load formats. Of the side shaft walls (25, 26), one shaft wall (25) can be stationary and designed, for example, as a fixed guide rail (27). The second, opposite side shaft wall (26) can be adjustable. For this purpose, the side shaft wall (26) can be formed, at least partially, by a lower inline conveyor (12), which can be designed and / or arranged to be laterally adjustable. An adjustable side shaft wall (26) can also be formed by an adjustable guide rail (27').

[0101] Furthermore, it is possible to arrange an inclined deflector (29) on a side shaft wall, which can have an additional guiding function for falling and possibly sideways tipping goods (2). How Fig. As illustrated in Figure 6, such an inclined deflector (29) can be arranged, for example, on the side wall (26) of the shaft opposite the layer conveyor (9) beyond the lower drop shaft (18). The deflector (29) can be located, for example, above the row conveyor (12). It can be stationary or, if necessary, adjustable.

[0102] The transport device (8) can alternatively or additionally be configured as a layer stack in the manner described above, in which a multi-row layer of individual items (3) is gradually built up on the layer conveyor (9) from several successively fed rows of individual items (5'). The individual rows of items (5') are each placed against the rear of the layer of items (3) moving in the opposite conveying direction (11).

[0103] Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. Figure 20 shows such an embodiment. The transport device (8) or the transfer device (17) comprises a series conveyor (13) with a conveying level (15) and an associated upright, preferably vertical, drop chute (19), each arranged above the conveying level (10) of the layer conveyor (9). The upper upright drop chute (19) is arranged at the front connection to the layer conveyor (9). The controlled movable upper chute cover (21) of the drop chute (19) is arranged at the height of the conveying level (15) of the series conveyor (13). The upper series conveyor (13) is designed to form the separated row of individual items (5') from a stream of individual items (6) on the closed upper chute cover (21) and to position it above the associated upper drop chute (19).

[0104] The upper row conveyor (13) includes grouping elements (46') with which a singulated row of individual items (5') is formed from a stream of individual items (6). The grouped singulated row of individual items (5') has a length that corresponds to the row length within the item layer (3).

[0105] Fig. 19 and Fig. Figure 20 illustrates such a configuration. The inline conveyor (13) can have a guide (28) for the stream of individual items (6) coming, for example, from a unit load generator (48). The inline conveyor (13) can, for example, be arranged in the conveying direction (16) in front of the upper, controlled movable shaft cover (21) and can end in front of it. The shaft cover (21) can, for example, be designed as a linearly movable sliding plate (22). The inline conveyor (13) pushes the individual items (2) onto the upper shaft cover (21). The grouping devices (46') can, for example, be designed as stoppers that engage in front of the first and behind the last individual item (2) in the conveying direction (16) and form the separated row of individual items (5').

[0106] The upper row conveyor (13) can be configured in the manner described above, like the lower row conveyor (12). It can be configured in the variant of Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. 18 be arranged laterally next to the isolated row of individual items (5'). Its grouping means (46') can be designed like the conveying means (44, 45). The upper row conveyor (13) can also be arranged in the aforementioned manner according to Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 below the unit load flow (6). The grouping devices (46') may be configured and assigned differently.

[0107] The upper shaft cover (21) can be opened and closed. The upper drop shaft (19) is located in the variant of Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. 18 in front of the front end of the layer conveyor (9). The lower shaft floor (24) can be formed in any suitable manner, e.g. by a fixed or a movable slide plate (22). The shaft floor (24) can be formed by the conveying element (36). The conveying level (10) is at the level of the shaft floor (24).

[0108] The transfer device (7) can also include a controlled movable transfer element (31) with a controllable drive (32) which transfers the isolated row of pieces of goods (5') standing on the shaft floor (24) onto the layer conveyor (9) and to the rear end of the layer of pieces of goods (3) in its conveying direction (11), e.g. by pushing it over.

[0109] Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. Figure 18 illustrates the operational sequence of a layer diagram. For example, on the closed upper shaft cover (21) of the drop shaft (19), according to... Fig. 16. A single row of individual items (5') is separated from the general cargo stream (6) and positioned above the drop chute (19) and guided laterally by the row guide (28). The upper row conveyor (13) can be located laterally next to the chute cover (21) or according to Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 in front of the manhole cover (21).

[0110] Then, according to Fig. 17 The upper shaft cover (21) is opened, causing the single row of individual items (5') to fall into the upper drop shaft (19) and onto its shaft floor (24). The transfer element (31) then pushes the single row of individual items (5') standing on the shaft floor (24) to the rear end of the layer of items (3) on the layer conveyor (9), which then moves the layer of items (3) forward by the width of one row of items in the conveying direction (11). During the transfer process, the next single row of individual items (5') can be positioned and made ready on the closed upper shaft cover (21). Fig. Figure 18 shows this process step.

[0111] Fig. Figure 22 shows a variant in which the upper drop shaft (19) is arranged above the front end of the layer conveyor (9).

[0112] In the upper drop chute (19), the side walls of the chute can be formed on one side by the transfer element (31), e.g., an upright slide plate, and on the other side by the last row of individual items in the layer (3) on the layer conveyor (9). Alternatively, other designs with height-adjustable guide rails or the like are possible. The upper drop chute (19) can also have end-face guide elements (not shown) for guiding the falling row of individual items (5') at its front and rear ends.

[0113] The upper drop chute (19) can also be adjusted in height and / or width. Width adjustment is possible, for example, by appropriately positioning the transfer element (31) and its preferably vertical and flat front wall. Furthermore, the row guide (28) can be adjusted. In the case of a laterally arranged row conveyor (13), this can be adjusted laterally as required and can, for example, form an adjustable lateral guide rail (28') with its conveying section. In the other variant of Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 above the drop shaft (19) the row guide (28) can have an independent guide rail (28') adjustable transversely to the shaft extension.

[0114] Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. Figure 20 shows an embodiment in which the transport device (8) functions as a combined row and layer conveyor. The guide shafts (18, 19) are arranged in alignment above one another. The upper shaft cover (20) of the lower drop shaft (18) can form the shaft bottom (24) of the upper drop shaft (19). The adjustable counter support (30) can simultaneously form the adjustable transfer element (31). The layer conveyor (9) is movable forwards and backwards in opposite conveying directions (11) for layer and row formation.

[0115] Fig. Figure 22 shows an exemplary embodiment in which the transport device (8) functions only as a layer indicator. The adjustable transfer element (31) can be omitted or can have a reduced function for the lateral guidance of the dropped, individual row of items (5') or can form an adjustable lateral shaft wall of the upper drop shaft (19).

[0116] The at least one inline conveyor (12, 13) can be sequentially movable in its conveying direction (16). It can remain stationary when a single layer of individual items (5, 5') falls. It can then perform a conveying movement in the conveying direction (16) to remove a fallen single layer of individual items (5) or to feed and position a single layer of individual items (5') on the closed upper shaft cover (21) of the upper drop shaft (19). The conveying direction (16) can remain the same or change.

[0117] The layer conveyor (9) can move continuously or intermittently in its respective conveying direction (11). Continuous conveying can be performed with fluctuating speeds. The conveying direction (11) can be switched if the transport device is designed as a combined series and layer configuration. Depending on the design of the conveying element (36), the conveying direction (11) can also oscillate.

[0118] The at least one row conveyor (12,13) ​​and the layer conveyor (9) can each be designed as a single unit or as multiple units.

[0119] Fig. Figure 23 shows a section of the facility (1) of Fig. 1 with two transport devices (8), the upper transport device (8) in the drawing being designed as a series device for the formation and removal of individual unit load rows (5). The lower transport device (8) in the drawing is designed as a layer device, which forms unit load layers (3) from fed, individual unit load rows (5'). The unit load rows (5, 5') and the unit load layers (3) are not shown for clarity.

[0120] In both cases, the transport device (8) is connected to a system component (51) from which layers of goods (3) are fed or received. The system component (51) can, for example, be designed as a conventional palletizer with which layers of goods (3) are palletized or depalletized while building up or dismantling a pallet. Intermediate layers or trays can be used in this process.

[0121] Fig. 1 and the partial representation of Fig. Figure 23 further illustrates the connection of the plant component (51) to a conveyor (63), which in turn is connected to a storage area (50) for receiving the palletized layers of goods (3) or empty pallet stacks. Several plant components (51) can be connected to the conveyor (63).

[0122] Fig. Figure 1 also illustrates the connection of the transport equipment (8) to a plant component (48), e.g. a unit load producer, in particular one or more blow molding machines, e.g. for plastic bottles, and to a plant component (49), e.g. a filling device or another unit load handling device. Fig. Figure 1 also shows a hybrid form in which, in addition to the transport devices (8), other conventional transport devices, in particular layer diagrams, are arranged. These are connected, for example, to a plant component (48).

[0123] Fig. 23, Fig. 24 to Fig. Figure 25 illustrates a particular embodiment of the system component (51) for the feeding and removal of layers of individual goods (3), which is designed as a stacking device (52). The stacking device (52) can be a special version of a palletizer.

[0124] In this process, the individual load layers (3) are each placed in an inverted, downward-facing, open-ended container (59) and stacked together with the container (59) on a lower stacking support (60). The containers (59) are preferably taller than the respective load layer (3) and completely enclose it. The downward-facing containers (59) with the load layers (3) are stacked on top of each other, with each load layer (3) resting on the upward-facing bottom of the lower container (59). The containers (59) with the load layers (3) form a filled container stack (61) in which the load layers (3) are completely enclosed and protected. Furthermore, so-called buffer container stacks (62) can be formed from empty containers (59).

[0125] The stacking device (52) has a loading point (53) at the connection to the layer conveyor (9) of the transport device (8). At the loading point (53), the stacking device (52) picks up or discharges a layer of unit loads (3). The layer of unit loads (3) is thereby picked up into or discharged from the inverting container (59).

[0126] The stacking device (52) further comprises a stacking point (54) located at a distance from the loading point (53), at which a filled container stack (61) is successively built up or dismantled on a lower stacking support (60) from the slip-on containers (59), each containing a layer of general cargo (3). The stacking device (52) is also designed to successively build up or dismantle a buffer container stack (62) from empty slip-on containers (59) at the stacking point (74). In doing so, the slip-on containers (59) are moved between a filled container stack (61) and a buffer container stack (62).

[0127] The stacking device (52) has a stacking transporter (55) at the stacking point (54), which has at least two receiving points for the container stacks (61, 62) and for their lower stacking supports (60). The stacking transporter (55) can perform alternating movements and can alternately provide one of the two stacks (61, 62) at the stacking point (54). It is, for example, designed as a linear conveyor.

[0128] The stacking device (52) further comprises a handling device (56) which includes a handling unit (57) for gripping and moving a lidded container (59) and a support platform (58). A height adjustment mechanism is also provided, which can adjust the height of the handling unit (57) and the support platform (58) to the respective stacking height of the container stacks (61, 62).

[0129] When storing layers of individual items (3) and building up a filled container stack (61), the handling device (57) picks up an empty inverted container (59) from the buffering container stack (62) provided at the stacking point (54) and moves it to the loading point (53). There, the handling device (57) picks up a layer of individual items (3) provided on the stacking conveyor (9) or elsewhere in the inverted container (59), for example by positioning the inverted container (59) over the layer of individual items (3) and lowering it. The handling device (57) then pushes the inverted container (59) with the picked-up layer of individual items (3) over the support floor (58), which is flush with the loading point (53), to the stacking point (54). Here, a partially assembled, filled stack of containers (61) or an unloaded stacking carrier (60) has been provided by the stacking transporter (55).The handling device (57) then slides the slip-on container (59) with the received layer of goods (3) onto the stacking carrier (60) or onto the uppermost slip-on container (59) in the filled container stack (61).

[0130] The stack transporter (55) then exchanges the container stacks (61, 62) and positions a buffer container stack (62) of empty flip-top containers (59) at the stacking point (54). The handling device (57) then removes the uppermost empty flip-top container (59) from the buffer container stack (62) and moves it in a preferably straight motion to the loading point (53), thereby restarting the storage process described above.

[0131] When the filled container stack (61) has reached its maximum stacking height, it is transported away by the stacking device (52) and transferred to the stacking conveyor (63), where the stacking conveyor (55) positions the stacking carrier (60) of the now dismantled buffering container stack (62) at the stacking point (54). A new buffering container stack (62) is then transferred to the stacking conveyor (55).

[0132] When unloading individual loads (3) from filled container stacks (61), the process described above is reversed. The handling device (57) picks up the uppermost filled inverted container (59) from the filled container stack (61) and moves it, along with the individual load (3) it holds, across the support platform (58) to the loading point (53), where the inverted container (59) is removed from the individual load (3), in particular lifted off. The empty inverted container (59) is then moved back to the stacking point (54) and placed there onto a prepared and partially assembled buffering container stack (62) or its stacking support (60). The stack transporter (55) then changes the container stack (61,62), whereby the retrieval process starts again and the handling device (57) removes a flip-top container (59) with a picked-up layer of general cargo (3) from the filled container stack (61).

[0133] The aforementioned storage and retrieval processes are also possible with partially filled container stacks (61). For example, if a filled container stack (61) is only built up to a portion of its maximum intended stacking height, empty stackable containers (59) can then be placed on top of the partially filled container stack (61) until the intended stacking height is reached and the partially filled container stack (61) is removed.

[0134] This storage process with partially filled container stacks (61) can also be reversed during retrieval. Lidded containers (59) containing layers of individual goods (3) are transported to the loading point (53), emptied, and transferred to the buffer container stack (62). Empty lidded containers (59) in the partially filled container stack (61) can be directly transferred to the buffer container stack (62).

[0135] The partially filled container stacks (61) can be brought to a uniform stack height with the same number of empty lidded containers (59) by placing them on top. This is advantageous for logistical reasons and because of the complete restacking of the lidded containers (59) between the filled and the empty or buffering container stacks (61, 62). On the other hand, it is possible to have different stack heights and different numbers of containers in the container stacks (61, 62).

[0136] The stack transporter (63) transports the filled container stacks (61) and the buffering container stacks (62) to the plant section (50), in particular storage, there and back.

[0137] The treatment process provides that the unit loads (2) are produced and treated in the aforementioned treatment plant (1) and its plant components (48-51) and stored as needed, in particular temporarily for buffer purposes. During production and treatment, the unit loads (2) can be arranged in unit load rows (5, 5', 6). For storage, they can be arranged in unit load layers (3).

[0138] Variations of the illustrated and described embodiments are possible in various ways within the scope of the claims. In particular, the aforementioned embodiments can be combined with one another in different ways. REFERENCE MARK LIST 1 Plant for handling general cargo 2 items, container, bottle 3 general cargo layer 4 rows of general cargo at the front of the layer 5 individual items, rows 5' general cargo row, scattered 6. Unit load series flow 7 Corpus 7' Filling opening 8 Transport equipment 8' machine frame 9 layer conveyors 10 funding level 11 Direction of conveyance 12 row conveyors below 13 row conveyors at the top 14 Delivery level of bottom of series conveyor 15 Delivery level of series conveyor top 16 Direction of conveyance 17 Transfer facility 18 Drop shaft 19 Drop shaft 20 manhole covers 21 Manhole cover 22 Slider plate 23 Shaft floor 24 shaft floor 25 Shaft wall side 26 Shaft wall side 27 Fixed guide rail 27' adjustable guide rail 28 row guide 28' adjustable guide rail 29 deflectors 30 counterholders 31 Transfer element 32 Drive 33 Guide system 34 Side guide 35 Back guidance 36 Conveyor element 37 Conveyor belt 38 Conveyor plate 39 retainers 40 Conveyor 41 Conveyor 42 Drive 43 Drive 44 funding 45 grants 46 paddles 46' Grouping device, stopper 47 connecting conveyors 48 Plant component, general cargo producer 49 Plant component, filling device 50 Plant section, warehouse 51 Plant component, palletizer 52 Stacking device 53 Loading point 54 Stacking point 55 stacker transporters 56 Handling device 57 Handling device 58 Support floor 59 containers, slip-on containers 60 stacking carriers 61 stacks of containers filled Buffering 62 stacks of containers 63 stack conveyors h level difference sh general cargo height QUOTES INCLUDED 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] WO 2021 / 191291 A1

[0002]

Claims

Transport device for transporting unit loads (2), in particular empty containers that are critical to transport and orientation, wherein the transport device (8) comprises a layer conveyor (9) and at least one front-mounted row conveyor (12, 13) with intersecting conveying directions (11, 14), wherein the layer conveyor (9) is designed for conveying a multi-row layer of unit loads (3) and the at least one row conveyor (12, 13) is designed for conveying a single row of unit loads (5, 5'), characterized in that the layer conveyor (9) and the at least one row conveyor (12, 13) each have a conveying level (10, 14, 15) on which the unit loads (2) move while standing, wherein the conveying levels (10, 14, 15) are arranged one above the other with a level difference (h) which is greater than the height (sh) of the unit loads (2), and wherein the transport device (8) includes a transfer device (17) includes the spaced support levels (10, 14,15) connects and which is designed for the transfer of a single batch of goods (5, 5') between the conveying levels (10, 14, 15), - wherein the transfer device (17) comprises at least one upright drop chute (18, 19) extending transversely to a conveying direction (11) of the layer conveyor (9) and at least one controlled movable upper chute cover (20, 21) which temporarily opens and closes the upper end of the at least one drop chute (18, 19), - wherein the at least one chute cover (20, 21) in the closed position supports a single batch of goods (5, 5') and in the open position allows the received batch of goods (5, 5') to fall into the at least one drop chute (18, 19) and onto the lower conveying level (10, 14). Transport device according to claim 1, characterized in that the transport device (8) is controlled in such a way that the dropped singulated row of individual items (5) is conveyed away, while a new singulated row of individual items (5) is picked up on the shaft cover (20,21) above the drop shaft (18). Transport device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the conveying level (14) of the at least one row conveyor (12) and the associated upright drop chute (18) are arranged below the conveying level (10) of the layer conveyor (9), wherein the at least one upright lower drop chute (18) is arranged at the front of the layer conveyor (9) and its controlled movable upper chute cover (20) is arranged in the height range of the conveying level (10) of the layer conveyor (9). Transport device according to claim 3, characterized in that the layer conveyor (9) is designed to form the singulated unit load row (5) from a front-side unit load row (4) of the unit load layer (3) and to position it on the shaft cover (20, 21) above the drop shaft (18). Transport device according to claim 2, 3 or 4, characterized in that the transport device (8) is controlled such that the dropped singulated row of individual items (5) is removed from the associated row conveyor (12) and during this time a new singulated row of individual items (5) is formed from the item layer (3) above the drop chute (18) and positioned. Transport device according to claim 3, 4 or 5, characterized in that the upper shaft cover (20) of the lower drop shaft (18) is arranged separately from the layer conveyor (9) and is independently controlled and movable, wherein in its closed position it connects to the layer conveyor (9) at its edge. Transport device according to claim 6, characterized in that the upper shaft cover (20) is designed as a controlled movable sliding plate (22). Transport device according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the layer conveyor (9) forms the separated unit load row (5) by conveying a front-facing unit load row (4) of the unit load layer (3) onto the closed upper shaft cover (20). Transport device according to claim 2, 3 or 4, characterized in that the upper shaft cover (20) is designed as a plate-like part of the layer conveyor (9) that moves with the conveying direction (11) in the direction of conveying. Transport device according to claim 9, characterized in that the layer conveyor (9) forms the separated unit load row (5) by positioning the front unit load row (4) of the unit load layer (3) on the upper shaft cover (20) above the drop shaft (18) and by subsequently removing the upper shaft cover (20) from under the front unit load row (4). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transfer device (17) has a preferably adjustable counterholder (30) for the separated row of individual items (5), which is arranged on the far edge of the associated lower drop chute (18) opposite the layer conveyor (9) in the height range, in particular above, its conveying level (10). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a shaft floor (23) of the lower drop shaft (18) forms the conveying level (14) of the associated lower row conveyor (12) for the received singulated row of individual items (5). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a shaft floor (23) of the lower drop shaft (18) is designed as a sliding surface or as a moving conveying surface of the associated lower row conveyor (12). Transport device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the conveying level (15) of the at least one row conveyor (13) and the associated upright drop chute (19) are arranged above the conveying level (10) of the layer conveyor (9), wherein the upper upright drop chute (19) is arranged in the front connection to the layer conveyor (9) and the controlled movable upper chute cover (21) of the drop chute (19) is arranged in the height range of the conveying level (15) of the row conveyor (13). Transport device according to claim 14, characterized in that the series conveyor (13) is designed to form the isolated unit load row (5') from a unit load row stream (6) on the closed upper shaft cover (21) and to position it above the upper drop shaft (19). Transport device according to claim 15, characterized in that the series conveyor (13) comprises grouping means (46') for forming a separate series of individual items (5') from a series of individual items (6). Transport device according to claim 14, 15 or 16, characterized in that the transfer device (17) is controlled such that the dropped singulated row of individual items (5') is picked up by the layer conveyor (9) and, if necessary, conveyed away, while a new singulated row of individual items (5') is formed and positioned on the closed upper shaft cover (21) above the drop shaft (19). Transport device according to one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that the upper shaft cover (21) of the upper drop shaft (19) is designed as a controlled movable sliding plate (22). Transport device according to one of claims 14 to 18, characterized in that the shaft floor (24) of the upper drop shaft (19) is arranged in the height range of the conveying level (10) of the layer conveyor (9). Transport device according to claim 19, characterized in that the shaft floor (24) of the upper drop shaft (19) is formed by a stationary or preferably controlled movable slide plate (22). Transport device according to one of claims 14 to 20, characterized in that the transfer device (17) comprises a controlled movable transfer element (31) with a drive (32) which is designed to transfer a single row of individual items (5') located on the shaft floor (24) of the upper drop shaft (19) to the layer conveyor (9) and to form a new layer of items (3) there or to connect the transferred row of items (5') to an existing layer of items (3) from the rear. Transport device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the transport device (8) is designed as a series image and forms and discharges several individual rows of individual items (5) from a supplied multi-row layer of general cargo (3). Transport device according to one of claims 14 to 21, characterized in that the transport device (8) is designed as a layer image and forms and removes a multi-row layer of unit loads (3) from several supplied individual rows (5'). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device (8) is designed as a combined row and layer configuration and comprises several, in particular two, stacked row conveyors (12, 13) and has a transfer device (17) with several, in particular two, stacked drop chutes (18, 19). Transport device according to claim 24, characterized in that the several, in particular two, drop shafts (18,19) and, if applicable, the several, in particular two, row conveyors (12,13) ​​are arranged one above the other, preferably in alignment. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one drop chute (18,19) is adapted in its width and, if applicable, in its length to the isolated row of individual items (5,5'). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one drop shaft (18,19) comprises lateral shaft walls (25,26) which extend along the isolated row of individual items (5,5') and guide them. Transport device according to claim 27, characterized in that a lateral shaft wall (25,26) is formed by a guide rail (27,27') and / or by a series conveyor (12,13). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one drop chute (18,19) is adjustable in its height and / or in its width transversely to the isolated row of individual items (5,5') and is designed to be adaptable to different item formats. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one drop chute (18, 19) has an inclined deflector (29) which is designed and arranged to align tilted goods (2) in an upright position. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one series conveyor (12,13) ​​is movable in a timed manner in its conveying direction (16). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the layer conveyor (9) is movable continuously or intermittently in its respective conveying direction (11). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the layer conveyor (9) has a movable and controlled driven conveying element (36) and a guide device (33) for the received layer of unit load (3). Transport device according to claim 33, characterized in that the conveying element (36) is designed as a continuously and optionally reversibly movable conveyor belt (37). Transport device according to claim 33, characterized in that the conveying element (36) has an oscillatingly movable conveying plate (38) and a followable retainer (39), which can be designed to hold the position of the unit load (3) in the rear during a retraction movement of the conveying plate (38). Transport device according to claim 35, characterized in that the upper shaft cover (20) of a lower drop shaft (18) is formed by the front area of ​​the conveyor plate (38). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one row conveyor (12,13) ​​has at least one conveying device (40,41) with a controllable drive (42,43) and at least one guide means (44,45) which is designed to hold and guide a single row of individual items (5,5') during their conveying movement. Transport device according to claim 37, characterized in that the at least one row conveyor (12, 13) has at least two guide means (44, 45), each designed as a guide paddle (46) and configured to hold and guide the singulated row of individual items (5, 5') at its front and rear end ends in a form-fitting manner. Transport device according to claim 38, characterized in that the guide paddles (46) are variable in their mutual distance. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device (8) comprises a connecting conveyor (47) which connects to the at least one series conveyor (12,13) ​​on the feed side and / or discharge side. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device (8) with its layer conveyor (9) is connected to a palletizer (51) which stacks and / or unstacks the layers of unit loads (3). Transport device according to claim 41, characterized in that the palletizer (51) is designed as a stacking device (52) which receives or releases the layers of unit goods (3) at a loading point (53) assigned to the layer conveyor (9) in a container, in particular a downwardly open lidded container (59), and successively builds up or dismantles a filled container stack (61) formed from containers, in particular lidded containers (59), each containing a layer of unit goods (3) at a distanced stacking point (54). Transport device according to claim 42, characterized in that the stacking device (52) is designed to successively dismantle or build up a buffering container stack (62) of empty containers, in particular slip-on containers (59), at the stacking point (54) and thereby transfer the containers, in particular slip-on containers (59), between the container stacks (61, 62). Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device (8) with its at least one series conveyor (12, 13) is connected to a unit load producer (48), in particular to a blow molding machine, and / or to a unit load handler (49), in particular to a filling device. Treatment plant for unit loads (2), in particular transport- and orientation-critical empty containers, wherein the treatment plant (1) has a transport device (8) comprising a layer conveyor (9) designed for conveying a multi-row layer of unit loads (3) and at least one row conveyor (12, 13) designed for conveying a single row of unit loads (5) with intersecting conveying directions (11, 14), characterized in that the transport device (8) is designed according to at least one of claims 1 to 44. Treatment plant according to claim 45, characterized in that the treatment plant (1) comprises at least one palletizer (51), in particular at least one stacking device (52). Treatment plant according to claim 45 or 46, characterized in that the treatment plant (1) comprises a storage facility (50) which is designed to receive filled container stacks (61) of downwardly open slip-top containers (59) with received layers of individual items (3) and buffering container stacks (62) of empty slip-top containers (59).

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